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HURIWA endorses Historic Military Salary Increase, Demands sustainable Welfare mechanisms *

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Prominent pro-democracy and civil rights advocacy group Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a landmark salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the decision as one of the most significant welfare interventions for Nigerian troops in decades.

Besides, HURIWA praised the honourable minister of Defence General Chritopher Musa and the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu for their consistent but subtle advocacy for the overall improvements of the welfare and well-being of the men, women and officers of the Armed forces of Nigeria who are at the forefront of the war on terror to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

For too long, the brave men and women of the Armed Forces have borne the crushing weight of Nigeria’s security burdens while receiving remuneration that fell far short of the enormous risks they confront daily. They have battled terrorists, insurgents, bandits, kidnappers, oil thieves and other violent criminal networks, often under the harshest operational conditions and with little public appreciation.

This salary increase is, therefore, more than an adjustment in figures; it is a long-overdue recognition that those who stand between the Nigerian people and forces of anarchy deserve dignity, respect and economic security.

HURIWA particularly commends President Tinubu for acknowledging that national security begins with the welfare of those entrusted with defending the nation. A hungry, poorly motivated and financially distressed soldier cannot be expected to deliver peak operational performance in an era when security threats have become increasingly sophisticated, technology-driven and transnational.

The prominent civil society organisation HURIWA, also applauds the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, whose reform agenda places troop welfare, technology, professionalism and operational excellence at the centre of military transformation. His emphasis on intelligence-led operations, drone technology, aviation capability, institutional discipline and meritocracy reflects an understanding that modern warfare is won not only by courage but by innovation, preparation and investment in human capital.

However, HURIWA warns that while the salary increase is historic and commendable, it must never become another isolated policy that fades with time. Nigeria has witnessed several well-intentioned welfare announcements that gradually lost value because they were neither institutionalised nor protected from inflation, economic shocks and policy inconsistencies.

If this bold intervention is to leave a lasting legacy, it must be backed by comprehensive legislative and institutional reforms.

The Federal Government should immediately initiate the establishment of an Armed Forces Welfare and Remuneration Commission, backed by an Act of the National Assembly, with statutory powers to conduct periodic reviews of military salaries, operational allowances and retirement benefits based on inflation, exchange rate realities and the cost of living.

HURIWA submitted that the welfare of those defending the nation should never depend on discretionary political decisions or the goodwill of any administration.

HURIWA further calls for the introduction of a comprehensive military family support programme covering quality housing, world-class healthcare, educational scholarships for children of serving and fallen personnel, expanded life insurance, mortgage facilities, psychological rehabilitation for combat veterans and accelerated pension administration.

The nation owes these heroes and their families more than applause; it owes them lasting security and opportunity.

The civil rights group also insists that improved remuneration must be complemented by sustained investments in cutting-edge military hardware, artificial intelligence-driven surveillance systems, combat aviation, cyber warfare capabilities, satellite intelligence, indigenous defence manufacturing and continuous professional training. Better pay without modern equipment would amount to asking soldiers to fight twenty-first-century wars with twentieth-century tools.

HURIWA urges the National Assembly to seize this moment by enacting a comprehensive Military Welfare Protection Act that guarantees automatic and periodic reviews of military remuneration while safeguarding welfare provisions from political transitions and fiscal uncertainties.

Such legislation, HURIWA affirmed, would send a powerful message that Nigeria values those who risk everything to defend her sovereignty.

The association equally calls on military authorities to ensure that the salary increase translates into improved morale, stronger discipline, enhanced professionalism and greater commitment to the constitutional responsibility of protecting every Nigerian irrespective of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.

Enhanced welfare should be matched by enhanced accountability, respect for human rights and strict adherence to the rules of engagement.

At a time when Nigeria continues to battle insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, violent criminality in the North-Central, oil theft in the Niger Delta and other emerging security threats across the federation, strengthening the morale of the Armed Forces is not merely desirable—it is a national imperative.

History has shown that nations that neglect the welfare of their armed forces eventually pay a far greater price in insecurity, instability and national decline. Conversely, countries that invest consistently in the welfare, professionalism and technological capacity of their military build stronger institutions, safer societies and more resilient democracies.

HURIWA therefore congratulates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking this bold and commendable step. The association urges him not to stop here. This intervention should mark the beginning of a new era in which the welfare of Nigerian troops is guaranteed by strong institutions, protected by law and sustained by deliberate national policy rather than treated as an occasional gesture.

Nigeria’s soldiers have faithfully stood guard over the nation through years of conflict, uncertainty and sacrifice. The nation must now stand firmly behind them—not only with improved salaries, but with enduring policies that honour their service, protect their families and secure their future.

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Gov Gov Fubara Pledges Administration’s Commitment To Enhancing NYSC Scheme In Rivers

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers state, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme in the state through deliberate support and improved welfare for corps members.

Fubara gave the assurance on Friday at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area, during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream II corps members.

The Governor, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Promise Oguzie, said the state government would remain intentional in providing the necessary support to enhance the scheme and the overall experience of corps members deployed to Rivers State.

He charged the corps members to be exemplary, dedicated, and committed in their service, and to serve as role models and nation-builders in their host communities.

“I charge you to be exemplary, dedicated and committed in all you do. Take full advantage of all the camp programmes and activities to enrich yourselves,” he said.

Governor Fubara further urged the Corp members to uphold the ideals of the NYSC by promoting unity, discipline, and national integration during their service year.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Rivers State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, described the deployment of corps members to the state as “a veritable opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the growth of the state in particular and Nigeria at large.”

He charged them to serve with integrity, discipline, and the fear of God, especially as some of them will be engaged as ad-hoc staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for the 2027 general elections.

A total of 3,584 corps members, comprising 1,421 males and 2,163 females, were sworn in by the Chief Judge of Rivers State, represented by Justice Godspower Aguma, in the ceremony attended by government officials, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders. Fubara Pledges Administration’s Commitment To Enhancing NYSC Scheme In Rivers

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*NDC Sets Up National Reconciliation C’ttee to Strengthen Party Unity Ahead of 2027 Elections*

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Ahead of 2027 general elections and following the successful conclusion of its party primaries, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially inaugurated a National Reconciliation Committee to address concerns and disputes arising from the primary elections.

The inauguration took place at the party’s National Headquarters in Wuse II, Abuja.

Addressing members during the ceremony, the National Chairman of the NDC, Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, stated that the committee was established to promote peace, unity, and reconciliation among party members across the country. He stressed that a united party is essential for electoral success and urged members of the committee to carry out their assignment with integrity, fairness, transparency, and diligence.

National Reconciliation Committee

1. Prof. Pat Utomi – Chairman
2. Engr. Buba Galadima – Co-Chairman
3. Barr. Mohammed Sani Takori, MNI – Vice Chairman
4. Comrade Babatunde Ali – Secretary
5. Mrs. Dudu Mamman Manuga – Member
6. Hon. Salvador Adegoke Moshood – Member
7. Alhaji Haruna Pai – Member

Northern Sub-Committee

8. Mainasara Sani Abubakar – Chairman
9. Barr. Fatima Musa Abba – Secretary
10. Comrade Solomon Ndah – Member
11. Dr. Tanko Yusufu – Member
12. Arc. Dr. Toma Audu Gana – Member

South East Sub-Committee

13. Senator Victor Umeh – Chairman
14. Sir Patrick Akwara – Secretary
15. Barr. Eze Chikamnayo – Member
16. Dr. Patrick Eziechukwudi – Member
17. Chief (Barr.) Isaac Chinaka Anumudu – Member
18. Stefiny Amaka Eugene – Member

South South Sub-Committee

19. Senator Ben Birabi – Chairman
20. Senator Clever M. Ikisikpo – Secretary
21. Bishop Isaac Idahosa – Member
22. Esther Archibong – Member
23. Apostle David Stephen Okon – Member

In his acceptance remarks, the Chairman of the National Reconciliation Committee, Prof. Pat Utomi, expressed appreciation to the leadership of the party for the trust placed in him. He assured members that the committee would work tirelessly to promote harmony, strengthen internal unity, and advance the collective vision of the party.

Also speaking, the Co-Chairman, Engr. Buba Galadima, applauded the leadership for establishing the committee and pledged his unwavering commitment to ensuring genuine reconciliation among members at all levels of the party.

Speaking on behalf of the South-South Sub-Committee, Bishop Isaac Idahosa outlined practical measures for resolving post-primary disagreements. He called on party members, leaders, and stakeholders to put aside personal interests and embrace unity in order to secure victory for the NDC in the forthcoming general elections.

The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, fairness, inclusiveness, and party cohesion as it continues preparations to present credible candidates and a strong alternative platform to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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Osun Election: CP Samuel Erale Etaifo Brokers Peace Between Accord , APC Over Final Campaign Schedule

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As part of proactive measures to ensure a peaceful, credible, and violence-free environment ahead of the forthcoming Osun State Governorship Election, the Commissioner of Police (Elections), CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, psc, mnips, convened a strategic meeting with the leadership and representatives of the Accord Party and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to address the clash in the dates and venues of their respective final campaign rallies.

This was disclosed in a statement issued to newsmen by the Police Public Relations Officer Osun State Command DSP Abiodun Ojelabi on Friday in Osogbo

The meeting, he siad held in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and cooperation, was aimed at preventing any situation that could lead to a breakdown of law and order or unnecessary confrontation between supporters of the two political parties.

Following fruitful deliberations, both parties reached an amicable resolution. It was mutually agreed that the Accord Party will hold its final campaign rally on Wednesday, 12th August, 2026, at Fakunle, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) will conduct its final campaign rally on Thursday, 13th August, 2026, at Freedom Park.

The Commissioner of Police commended the leadership of both political parties for demonstrating maturity, patriotism, and a commitment to peaceful democratic engagement by embracing dialogue over conflict.

CP Etaifo further urged all political actors to caution their supporters, loyalists, and foot soldiers to conduct themselves peacefully before, during, and after the campaigns. He emphasized that while the Nigeria Police Force remains neutral and committed to providing adequate security for all lawful political activities, the Command will not tolerate any act capable of disrupting the existing relative peace in the state.

He warned that anyone found engaging in violence, intimidation, thuggery, incitement, or any other act capable of causing a breach of the peace will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Osun State Police Command reassures residents and all stakeholders of its unwavering commitment to ensuring a secure environment throughout the electioneering period and calls on members of the public to remain law-abiding and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.

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