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

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission, has lauded President Bola Tinubu's recent approval of a substantial salary increase for Nigeria's Armed Forces. Kalu described the move as a timely affirmation of the Federal Government's dedication to enhancing the welfare of troops who defend the nation's territorial integrity.

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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.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the former Abia State governor highlighted that the decision acknowledges the critical role and immense sacrifices of Nigerian servicemen and women. They confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats across various operational theaters while protecting lives and defending the country's sovereignty.

The approved salary review, effective September 1, ranges from 30% to 80% and is projected to impact around 250,000 personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This adjustment is estimated to increase the Federal Government's annual military wage bill by approximately ₦264 billion.

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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.

Kalu emphasized that improving military welfare is not merely a moral imperative but a strategic investment in Nigeria's security architecture. He urged the armed forces and other security agencies to honor this gesture by upholding high standards of professionalism, fairness, and respect for human rights. "Nothing inspires public confidence more than security personnel who carry out their constitutional responsibilities with dedication and integrity," he stated, linking national security directly to economic growth, unity, and sustainable development.

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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.