Kalu hails Tinubu’s military salary increase, urges troops to sustain patriotism

By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving a significant salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Kalu described the development as a timely demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of troops safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.

In a statement posted on his official social media handle on Wednesday, the former Abia State governor said the decision reflects a clear understanding that the welfare of military personnel should remain a national priority.

He noted that Nigerian servicemen and women continue to make enormous sacrifices in defending the country’s sovereignty, protecting lives and confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across various theatres of operation.

President Tinubu recently approved a salary review of between 30 and 80 per cent for military personnel, with the new pay structure expected to take effect from September 1. The adjustment is projected to benefit about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, while increasing the Federal Government’s annual military wage bill by an estimated ₦264 billion.

Commending the approval, Kalu said: “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.”

He added that improving the welfare of military personnel is not only a moral obligation 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 reciprocate the government’s support by maintaining high standards of professionalism, fairness and respect for citizens’ rights.

“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 said.

The senator stressed that national security remains the foundation of economic growth, national unity and sustainable development, expressing optimism that the improved welfare package would boost the morale and operational effectiveness of troops.

“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,” he added.

Kalu reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare, capacity and operational readiness of the nation’s security personnel and prayed for continued peace, stability and progress in Nigeria.

“God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

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