By Nefishetu Yakubu
The Sentinel Security Advocacy Initiative has commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, over the approved salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The group’s Convener, Mallam Abubakar Usman, gave the commendation in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.
Usman who described the approval as historic and timely, said that Tinubu had consistently demonstrated commitment to strengthening the armed forces and the nation’s security architecture through improved welfare and strategic investments in defence.
“Under this administration, the welfare of personnel risking their lives for national security has received unprecedented attention through deliberate policies and sustained government commitment,” he said.
He added that the government had also sustained the procurement of arms, ammunition and modern military equipment to strengthen operations against terrorism, banditry and other security threats nationwide.
“These deliberate investments are already yielding measurable results on the battlefield, while President Tinubu’s support for the military has translated from policy into concrete action,” he also said.
The convener noted that the improved operational capacity and morale of troops reflected the administration’s commitment to enhancing national security through better welfare and increased defence capabilities.
He also commended Ribadu for promoting stronger collaboration among security agencies and consistently advocating improved welfare for frontline personnel across the country’s security institutions.
“The national security adviser has demonstrated tenacity, tactical competence and effective leadership in ensuring personnel welfare remains a priority of this administration,” he said.
He lauded the NSA diplomatic engagements with the United States and other Western partners, saying that they had facilitated the acquisition of critical military hardware for Nigeria.
“His quiet but effective diplomacy has eased the acquisition of vital military equipment from friendly nations without the bureaucratic delays experienced in previous procurement processes,” he added.
According to him, officers above the rank of Colonel will receive a 30 per cent salary increase under the new remuneration structure approved by government.
“Officers from Colonel to Warrant Officer are expected to receive a 50 per cent salary increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will enjoy an 80 per cent increase.”
Usman said that according to the federal government, the salary adjustment would raise the armed forces’ annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting government’s commitment to personnel welfare.
“This increase clearly demonstrates the seriousness with which this administration treats the welfare of those defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” he emphasised.
He urged security agencies to justify the improved welfare package by intensifying operations against insurgency, banditry and other violent crimes across the country.
“Improved welfare must translate into improved operational performance. Personnel should remain proactive, aggressive and decisive in eliminating every threat to national security,” he said.
Usman also urged the federal government to triple the allowances of frontline personnel and prioritise their welfare, noting that they deserved adequate support for their sacrifices.
He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen Nigeria’s security institutions and enhance the safety and protection of all citizens.(NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)
NY/DCO
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Edited by Deborah Coker