Military Salary: Sen. Ndume Praises Tinubu on Increase, Tasks Armed Forces Personnel to Intensify Efforts
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The federal lawmaker, who previously served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Ali Ndume, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fulfilling his commitment to increase the salaries of Armed Forces personnel.
In a statement over the weekend, the senator representing Borno South Senatorial District expressed his commendation, saying it is worth noting that the Presidency issued an official statement last month committing to the implementation of a new salary package for certain categories of Armed Forces personnel.
It was recalled that the President’s spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, had earlier announced that officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier generals, major generals, lieutenant generals and generals, would receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer would receive a 50 per cent increase, while those from the rank of private to staff sergeant would benefit from an 80 per cent increase.
The presidential aide stated that the new package would raise the annual salary bill for Armed Forces personnel from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, benefiting more than 250,000 members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Further checks revealed that the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major General Samaila Uba, confirmed the implementation of the salary increase to defence correspondents on Friday.
Reacting to the development, the federal lawmaker, who previously served as Senate leader, commended President Tinubu for following through on his promises to enhance the morale of Nigerian military personnel.
He urged military officers to intensify their efforts in combating insurgency, kidnapping and banditry.
Ndume maintained that, over the past three years, the current administration had demonstrated a commitment to curbing insecurity by taking proactive measures, including providing funding to procure adequate arms and ammunition and doing everything possible to boost the morale of Armed Forces personnel.
He said: “Making a pronouncement is one thing; fulfilling your pledge is an entirely different matter. President Tinubu has shown time and again that he keeps his word. It is heartening to note that the salary increment promised the Nigerian Army has been delivered.
“I urge our officers to redouble their efforts to combat insecurity, especially as the current administration is doing everything possible to boost their morale. They should strive harder now that we have more troops on the ground following recent recruitment.
“The activation of the Army Aviation will also significantly complement the efforts of the Air Force, particularly now that we have attack helicopters stationed in all six geopolitical zones.”
The former Senate Leader reiterated his call for better coordination and synergy between the infantry and the Air Force in the fight against insurgency and banditry.
