Abuja, Nigeria — August 5, 2026
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a significant salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the move as a timely investment in the welfare of troops safeguarding the country's security.
The salary review, approved by President Tinubu, provides for an increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for military personnel and is expected to take effect from September 1, 2026. The new pay structure will benefit about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force, with the Federal Government projected to spend an additional ₦264 billion annually on military salaries.
Reacting to the development on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, through his official social media platforms, Senator Kalu said the decision demonstrates the administration's recognition that the welfare of those defending Nigeria must remain a national priority.
“The decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve a salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces deserves commendation. It reflects an understanding that the welfare of those who defend our nation should remain a priority,” Kalu stated.
The former Governor of Abia State noted that Nigerian servicemen and women continue to make enormous sacrifices in defending the country's territorial integrity while confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across different theatres of operation.
He stressed that improving the welfare of military personnel is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic investment in strengthening Nigeria's security architecture.
“Every day, our servicemen and women make enormous sacrifices to protect lives, safeguard our territorial integrity and confront the security challenges facing our country. Supporting them with better welfare is not only the right thing to do, but also an investment in a stronger and more effective security system,” he said.
Kalu also urged members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to justify the government's confidence by maintaining professionalism, fairness and respect for the rights of Nigerians in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
“As this important gesture is being implemented, I encourage our military and other security agencies to continue to justify the confidence reposed in them by serving Nigerians with courage, professionalism, fairness and respect for human dignity. Nothing inspires public confidence more than security personnel who carry out their constitutional responsibilities with dedication and integrity,” he added.
The senator further described national security as the foundation for economic growth, national unity and sustainable development, expressing optimism that the improved welfare package would boost the morale and operational effectiveness of military personnel.
“A secure nation is the foundation of economic growth, national unity and sustainable development. With improved welfare, renewed commitment and the support of all Nigerians, I believe we can continue to make meaningful progress in securing our country,” Kalu said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting policies aimed at improving the welfare, capacity and operational readiness of Nigeria's security personnel, while offering prayers for continued peace, stability and progress across the country.
The salary increase comes as Nigeria continues to confront security challenges in several parts of the country, with military personnel engaged in counter-insurgency operations, anti-banditry campaigns and efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments