Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has called on President Bola Tinubu to place the annual budget of the Nigerian Armed Forces on a first-line charge to ensure the military receives timely funding for its operations.
Ndume said bureaucratic delays between the Ministries of Defence and Finance were affecting the military’s ability to operate effectively, particularly in areas battling terrorism and banditry.
He urged the President to consider direct statutory transfers from the Federation Account to the Armed Forces, similar to the funding arrangements used for some government agencies.
The senator also praised Tinubu for approving salary increases for military personnel, saying the move would improve the morale and welfare of troops.
Under the new salary structure, officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier-generals, major-generals, lieutenant-generals and generals, will receive a 30 percent increase. Personnel from colonel to warrant officer will get a 50 percent increase, while those from private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 percent increase.
Ndume said the salary review, alongside the expansion of military divisions from eight to 12, showed that the administration was taking steps to address terrorism and banditry.
However, he stressed that improved welfare alone would not be enough to defeat insurgents. He called for the prompt provision of weapons, ammunition, logistics and adequate training for military personnel.
Ndume also urged Tinubu to fulfil his commitment to providing the Armed Forces with modern weapons and technological equipment needed to effectively tackle insecurity across the country.
