The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has described President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a new salary package for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as a major boost to troop morale and operational effectiveness.
He said the salary increase reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and would ease the financial burden on troops while motivating them to intensify efforts against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other security threats across the country.
The position was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Ministry of Defence, in which the minister expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving what he described as a historic salary increase for armed forces personnel.
According to Musa, the President has demonstrated unwavering leadership and empathy for officers and soldiers who continue to risk their lives in defence of the country.
“By raising the annual personnel cost from N660 billion to N924 billion, the President has matched words with concrete action, proving that the welfare of our troops remains paramount,” he said.
The minister said the improved remuneration would resonate across every theatre of operation and inspire personnel to carry out their duties with renewed commitment and discipline.
“This reduction of financial hardship for our officers and soldiers will resonate across every theatre of operation. On behalf of the entire defence structure, we assure Mr President and the Nigerian public that this gesture will be met with renewed vigour, uncompromising discipline and heightened operational effectiveness,” he said.
He urged officers and personnel of the Armed Forces to see the enhanced conditions of service as a renewed call to duty by redoubling their efforts to combat security threats, protect lives and restore stability across the country.
Musa also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s drive to modernise military equipment, strengthen technological capacity and improve the welfare of service personnel and their families.