By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving an upward review of salaries and welfare packages for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the move as a major boost to the country’s security architecture.

Benson also applauded the President’s approval for the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions through the creation of four new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City, alongside the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the lawmaker described the decisions as “historic, visionary and timely interventions” that demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security and improving the welfare of military personnel.

According to him, the improved remuneration, particularly the significant increase for junior personnel, would boost morale, enhance operational effectiveness, improve retention and attract qualified recruits into the Armed Forces.

He stressed that prioritising the welfare of military personnel was crucial to building a disciplined and professional military capable of responding effectively to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

Benson said the expansion of the Nigerian Army would enhance command and control, decentralise operational responsibilities, improve rapid troop deployment, strengthen border security and boost intelligence-led operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities.

He added that the combination of improved welfare, increased manpower and enhanced operational structures would further strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities while promoting professionalism, discipline and institutional 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 stated that the reforms align with the objectives of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflect the administration’s determination to build a modern, resilient and globally competitive military capable of addressing conventional and emerging security threats.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the House Committee on Defence to supporting the reforms through legislative backing, policy support and effective oversight to ensure successful implementation.

Benson expressed confidence that the measures would strengthen public trust in the Armed Forces, improve national security outcomes and contribute to lasting peace, stability and sustainable development across the country.