The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has assured officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria that concrete measures are being put in place to improve their salaries and overall welfare.
Oluyede gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja during the social night organised for soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
He said the initiative was being pursued in collaboration with the service chiefs and with the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
“If I tell you we are working on something, please be hopeful.
Something positive will come up,” he said.
The defence chief expressed optimism that 2026 would be a better year for personnel of the armed forces, adding that beyond salary enhancement, plans were also underway to strengthen post-service welfare packages.
He disclosed that arrangements were being concluded to provide access to soft loans for spouses of service members to support sustainable business ventures, as well as to expand affordable housing schemes for both serving and retired personnel.
According to him, discussions are ongoing with financial institutions to make low-interest loans available to military spouses, while housing loan options are being widened to ensure personnel retire with dignity.
Oluyede commended soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen for their resilience and professionalism in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty across various theatres of operation.
He noted that their sacrifices and dedication had continued to translate into notable operational successes across the country.
The defence chief also paid tribute to fallen heroes and acknowledged the vital role played by military families, describing their prayers and sacrifices as a quiet but powerful support behind every successful mission.
He further thanked President Tinubu for his consistent support for the armed forces and lauded the service chiefs for their leadership and commitment to boosting the welfare and morale of personnel.
