The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, MFR, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving an upward review of the salaries and welfare packages of personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as well as the expansion and reorganisation of the Nigerian Army.

Benson, in a statement issued on behalf of the committee, described the measures as “historic, visionary and timely interventions” that demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and improving the welfare of military personnel.

He said the enhanced remuneration for officers and soldiers across all ranks, particularly the substantial increase for junior personnel, would boost morale, improve operational efficiency, enhance personnel retention and attract qualified Nigerians into the Armed Forces.

According to him, improved welfare is essential to building a motivated, disciplined and professional military capable of responding effectively to the country’s evolving security challenges.

The committee chairman also applauded the President’s approval to expand the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions through the establishment of new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City.

Benson said the reorganisation would strengthen command and control, decentralise operational responsibilities, facilitate the rapid deployment of troops and improve border security and intelligence-led operations.

He added that the expansion would enhance the Army’s capacity to confront terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the country.

“The President has once again demonstrated remarkable leadership and an unwavering commitment to the security and stability of our nation.

“These bold reforms represent strategic investments in the men and women who daily make enormous sacrifices to safeguard our country’s peace, unity and democratic values. A well-motivated and properly equipped military remains indispensable to achieving sustainable national security and development,” he said.

The committee noted that the measures were consistent with the objectives of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflected the government’s determination to build a modern, resilient and globally competitive military capable of responding to conventional and emerging security threats.
It further stated that the combined effect of improved welfare, increased manpower and enhanced operational structures would strengthen Nigeria’s national defence capabilities while promoting professionalism, discipline, operational excellence and institutional efficiency within the Armed Forces.

The House Committee on Defence reaffirmed its support for the President’s security reforms and pledged to provide the necessary legislative backing, policy support and oversight to ensure their effective implementation.

The committee expressed confidence that the reforms would strengthen public confidence in the Armed Forces, improve national security outcomes and contribute to lasting peace, stability and sustainable development across Nigeria.