Former Senate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fulfilling his pledge to increase the salaries of personnel of the Armed Forces.
Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, gave the commendation in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja on Saturday.
The Federal Government approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for Armed Forces personnel, with the new rates taking effect from September 1, 2026. About 250,000 personnel are expected to benefit from the review.
Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier generals, major generals, lieutenant generals and generals, receive a 30 per cent increase. Personnel from colonel to warrant officer receive a 50 per cent increase, while those from private to staff sergeant receive an 80 per cent increase.
The Director of Defence Information, Maj-Gen. Samaila Uba, confirmed that the revised salaries had been implemented, with the increase reflected in September payments to military personnel.
Ndume, a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, said the implementation demonstrated the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and morale of military personnel.
“Making a pronouncement is one thing, redeeming your pledge is a different ball game entirely.
“President Tinubu has shown times without number that he keeps to his words. It is heartwarming to note that the salary increment he promised the Nigerian Army has been redeemed,” he said.
The senator urged military personnel to intensify their efforts to combat insecurity, saying the improved remuneration should further boost their morale.
“I want to urge our officers to redouble their efforts to curtail insecurity since the present administration is doing everything to boost their morale,” he said.
Ndume also pointed to the recent recruitment of additional personnel and called for greater operational effectiveness in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other security threats.
He further said the activation of Army Aviation would complement the efforts of the Nigerian Air Force, particularly with the deployment of attack helicopters.
“The activation of the Army Aviation would also go a long way in complementing the efforts of the Air Force now that we also have attack helicopters in the six geo-political zones,” he said.
The former Senate leader reiterated his call for stronger coordination between the Nigerian Army and the Air Force in tackling insurgency and banditry.
The salary review raises the annual salary bill for Armed Forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion, according to the Presidency.
