The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for endorsing an upward adjustment of earnings and welfare benefits for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, portraying the step as a significant enhancement to the nation’s security framework.
Benson also commended the President’s endorsement for expanding the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions by establishing four new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City, together with the enlistment of 28,000 extra personnel.
In a press release issued on Thursday, the legislator depicted the determinations as “historic, visionary and timely interventions” that display the Federal Government’s dedication to bolstering national security and elevating the well-being of military members.
According to him, the enhanced compensation, especially the marked bump for junior officers, would elevate morale, amplify operational capability, advance retention, and entice qualified recruits into the Armed Forces.
He emphasized that making military welfare a priority was essential to constructing a disciplined and professional force ready to address Nigeria’s shifting security threats.
Benson stated that expanding the Nigerian Army would refine command and control, decentralize operational duties, accelerate troop deployment, fortify border security, and boost intelligence-driven actions targeting terrorism, insurgency, banditry, abduction, and additional unlawful activities.
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He noted that combining superior welfare, increased staffing, and improved operational frameworks would solidify Nigeria’s defence posture while fostering professionalism, discipline, and organizational efficiency within the Armed Forces.
“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,” Benson said.
The committee chairman further observed that the initiatives correspond with the goals of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and showcase the leadership’s resolve to build a contemporary, durable, and globally competitive military prepared to tackle traditional and emerging threats.
He reiterated the pledge of the House Committee on Defence to support the reforms via legislative action, policy assistance, and thorough oversight to guarantee effective execution.
Benson voiced assurance that these actions would bolster public confidence in the Armed Forces, enhance national security results, and foster enduring peace, stability, and sustainable growth throughout the country.
