The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced that concrete measures are underway to enhance salaries and welfare for officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, with support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, officials said on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Social Night in Abuja.
Oluyede said the measures, developed in coordination with service chiefs and approved by the President and Commander‑in‑Chief of the Armed Forces, aim to make 2026 a better year for military personnel.
“If I tell you we are working on something, please be hopeful. Something positive will come up,” he said.
He explained that beyond salary enhancement, the Armed Forces are finalising arrangements to improve post‑service welfare, including access to soft loans for spouses and affordable housing schemes for both serving and retired members of the military.
The announcement was made during a social event designed to honour soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen participating in nationwide security operations and to recognise the sacrifices of service members.
The Chief of Defence Administration (CDA), Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, described the gathering as a deliberate opportunity for personnel to unwind, reflect and celebrate their contributions.
Experts and security stakeholders have long emphasised the need for improved welfare and remuneration for uniformed men and women to boost morale, operational readiness and retention, particularly as the military contends with diverse security challenges across Nigeria. Recent federal affirmations of support for military welfare align with this trend.
At a separate event commemorating the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to military welfare, acknowledging the commitment, sacrifices and patriotism of serving and retired personnel and their families.
He encouraged Nigerians to support the armed forces in overcoming security challenges including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
Musa highlighted that welfare support for the military and their families is critical to enabling personnel to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities to secure the nation. He commended President Tinubu for his leadership and unwavering support for welfare initiatives that underpin morale and operational effectiveness.
The plans announced by the CDS reflect a broader policy focus on strengthening the welfare framework for the Armed Forces, addressing longstanding concerns about remuneration and quality of life for personnel.
As implementation details are finalised, defence leadership has said more information will be shared with relevant stakeholders.
Defence authorities are expected to finalise and roll out specific salary and welfare improvements, including housing and credit support schemes, as part of ongoing efforts to sustain morale and enhance the wellbeing of service members and their families throughout 2026.
