The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has assured officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria that concrete steps are being taken to improve their salaries and overall welfare.
Oluyede gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Social Night organised for soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen. He said the initiative was being pursued in collaboration with the Service Chiefs and with the approval of President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
According to the defence chief, 2026 would be a better year for military personnel, urging them to remain hopeful as positive developments were underway.
Beyond salary enhancement, Oluyede disclosed that plans were also being finalised to improve post-service welfare, including access to soft loans for spouses and affordable housing schemes for serving and retired personnel. He said discussions were ongoing with financial institutions to provide low-interest loans to spouses to support small businesses, while housing loan options were being expanded to ensure dignified retirement for personnel.
The CDS commended members of the armed forces for their resilience, professionalism and sacrifices in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, noting that their efforts had resulted in notable operational successes across the country. He also paid tribute to fallen heroes and acknowledged the support of military families, describing their prayers and sacrifices as vital to mission success.
Oluyede expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his continued support of the Armed Forces and to the Service Chiefs for their leadership and commitment to improving morale and welfare.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Adm. Gideon Kachim, said the Social Night was organised to allow personnel unwind, reflect and celebrate, while also honouring fallen heroes whose sacrifices remain a source of inspiration.
The Social Night was part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. Top military officers in attendance included the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas; Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke; and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to outstanding personnel, as well as musical performances by artistes such as Tuface Idibia, Zule Zoo and Magnito.