CDS Assures Nigerian Troops of Improved Salaries, Welfare in 2026

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 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. “If I tell you we are working on something, please be hopeful. Something positive will come up,” the CDS said, pledging that 2026 would be a better year for personnel of the armed forces. Beyond salary enhancement, Oluyede disclosed that arrangements were being finalised to improve post-service welfare, particularly through access to soft loans for spouses and affordable housing schemes for serving and retired personnel. According to him, discussions are ongoing with financial institutions to provide low-interest loans to spouses of service members to enable them establish sustainable businesses, while housing loan options are being expanded to ensure personnel retire with dignity. The defence chief commended soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen for their resilience and professionalism in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty across all theatres of operation, noting that their sacrifices had continued to yield significant operational successes nationwide. He also paid tribute to fallen heroes and acknowledged the vital role of military families, describing their prayers and sacrifices as a silent but powerful force behind every successful mission. Oluyede expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces, as well as to the Service Chiefs for their leadership and commitment to improving the welfare and morale of personnel. Earlier, the Chief of Defence Administration (CDA), Rear Adm. Gideon Kachim, described the Social Night as a deliberate gathering designed to give personnel an opportunity to unwind, reflect and celebrate. Kachim said the occasion also provided a solemn moment to honour and remember fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation, stressing that their sacrifices remained a timeless source of inspiration to serving personnel. The Social Night was part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. Dignitaries 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 deserving personnel for outstanding performance and dedication to duty, as well as musical performances by legendary artistes Tuface Idibia, Zule Zoo and Magnito

Meet Nigeria’s 25th Chief of Naval Staff – Rear Adm. Idi Abbas

The appointment of Rear Adm. Idi Abbas as the 25th Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) brings a wealth of experience, discipline, and professionalism to the leadership of the Nigerian Navy. A seasoned Above Water Warfare specialist, Rear Adm. Abbas has spent more than three decades in service to the nation, distinguished by dedication to duty and a passion for maritime security. Born on Sept. 20, 1969, Abbas hails from Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State. He began his educational journey at Gwagwarwa Primary School, Kano, and later attended the Air Force Military School, Jos, from 1981 to 1986. In 1987, he gained admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 40 Regular Course and was commissioned Sub-Lieutenant on 10 September 1993 with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. A well-trained officer, Abbas has attended several military courses at home and abroad. These include the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course and Officers’ Long Course in Above Water Warfare at NNS QUORRA, as well as the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji. He also attended the United Nations Military Observer Course in Tanzania in 2009 and is a graduate of the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, Course 23. Over the years, the new Naval Chief has held several command and staff appointments. He has served onboard various Nigerian Navy ships, including NNS ARADU, NNS DAMISA, and NNS AYAM, as a Watch-Keeping Officer. He was also Naval Assistant to the Deputy Commandant, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and later served as Commanding Officer, Burma Battalion, NDA. His other notable appointments include Base Administrative Officer, NNS PATHFINDER; Maritime Guard Commander, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA); Commander, Task Group Operation TSARE TEKU; and Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command. He also served as Chief of Naval Safety and Standards, Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations at Defence Headquarters, and Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Army Heritage Centre before his elevation to the position of Chief of Naval Staff. Rear Adm. Abbas has risen steadily through the ranks from Midshipman in 1996 to Rear Admiral on Sept. 10 2020. His career has been decorated with several honours, including the Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), Grand Service Star (GSS), and the Defence General Staff Medal (DGSM). He is a Fellow of the Defence College (fdc) and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS). A calm, focused, and result-oriented officer, Abbas is widely respected for his professionalism and strategic leadership. Outside the uniform, he enjoys playing hockey and driving. He is married to Mrs Aisha Abbas, and they are blessed with two sons. The new naval chief is expected to bring renewed drive and operational focus to the Nigerian Navy as it continues its mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and contributing to national security. 

Why terrorism, Violent conflicts persist – CDS Musa

 The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, explained that the prolonged Boko Haram and other violent conflicts stem from their unconventional nature.  Speaking on a TV program, he noted that unlike traditional wars fought over territories, Boko Haram and operates based on ideology, making it harder to combat.   According to Musa, insurgents believe they gain rewards for their actions, making them fearless and difficult to distinguish from civilians.  Their tactics, such as using human shields and blending with communities, further complicate operations.  The military’s adherence to international laws contrasts with the insurgents’ disregard, creating additional challenges.   Musa also highlighted improved transparency in arms procurement, thanks to collaboration with the National Assembly.  He mentioned progress in repairing and maintaining equipment locally, strengthening the military’s capacity.  Additionally, plans are underway to produce weapons domestically following a newly signed bill.   The military remains committed to ending the conflict and enhancing its operational effectiveness.

Troops neutralise Abu Mosaje, terrorist commander, gunrunner, 96 others

Defence Headquarters says, in the last one week, troops have neutralised Abu Mosaje, identified as a notorious terrorist commander and gun runner in Plateau and 96 other terrorists nationwide. This is contained in a statement by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, on Friday in Abuja. Buba said the military has intensified ongoing counter terrorism operations across the nation targeting not just the terrorist but their network of collaborators, informants and support base. According to him, Abu Mosaje was killed in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau, adding that same troops apprehended a wanted kidnap kingpin, Babangida Usman in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Buba said that Babangida had been on the security watch list. READ ALSO: Out-of-school children: UNICEF moves to cut number in Kano, Katsina, Jigawa “Furthermore, troops arrested another notorious gunrunner and his son identified as Timothy Yusuf and Timothy Obadiah. “Meanwhile, in the South East, troops arrested seven IPOB/ESN terrorists including a notorious kidnapper and informants in Enugu North and Ehime Mbano Local Government Areas of Enugu and Imo States. “Nevertheless, during the week under review, troops neutralised 79 and arrested 224 persons. “Troops also arrested 28 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 67 kidnapped hostages,” he said. Buba said the troops in the South-South denied the oil thieves of the estimated sum of N747m during the week. He added that troops also discovered and destroyed 215 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 29 boats, 62 storage tanks, 20 drums and 42 illegal refining sites. READ ALSO: FCT Doctors suspend warning strike, following Wike’s intervention He said the troops also recovered one barge, one tugboat, two pumping machines, two speedboats, nine outboard engines, two vehicles, 21 motorcycles, 11 mobile phones and eight vehicles among others. “Troops recovered 842,685 litres of stolen crude oil, 12,340 litres of illegally refined AGO and 200 litres of DPK. “Furthermore, across all the theatres of operations, troops recovered 104 assorted weapons and 1,953 assorted ammunition. “The breakdown is as follows: 53 AK47 rifles, 25 fabricated rifles, one FN rifle, 11 dane guns, two pump action guns, one fabricated SMG, four IEDs, seven RPG bombs, 30 magazines, four IEDs and three locally made butts. “Others are: 1,186 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 417 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 49 rounds of 12.7mm ammo, 190 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 12 live cartridges, three bandoliers, one baofeng, 35 motorcycles, 22 mobile phones amongst other items. “Overall, troops remain steadfast in the destruction of terrorists across the country and remain committed to creating conditions in which the safety and security of citizens is guaranteed,” he added. 

Remember the sacrifices of your fallen heroes – group urges Nigerians

The Centre for Wounded Servicemen and Fallen Heroes Support Fund (CFWS&FHSF) has urged Nigerians from all sectors to remember the sacrifices and valour of fallen military heroes. The group’s Board Chairman, Retired Gen. Cecil Esekhiagbe, made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, marking the upcoming 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. January 15 is observed annually as Armed Forces Remembrance Day to honour fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. READ ALSO: CBN sanctions 9 banks for failing to dispense cash via ATMs Esekhiagbe described the day as an opportunity to reflect on the courage, dedication, and selflessness of these heroes, emphasising that their sacrifices highlighted the true cost of freedom and the high price paid for the nation’s liberty. He also encouraged Nigerians to show support for the families of fallen and wounded servicemen. Esekhiagbe prayed for the families of the fallen heroes, asking God to provide them with strength and peace. “We will never forget the service they gave; we owe them an incalculable gift of gratitude, “he said. READ ALSO: Tinubu Tax Reform Bills: Buba Galadima Opens a Can of Warms The Board Chairman commended President Bola Tinubu, the Military Service Chiefs, and other security heads for their role in securing the nation, especially highlighting the successes under Tinubu’s leadership in combating security threats. He lauded the military’s efforts in addressing the Lukurawa insurgency in the North-West and noted the military’s success in containing terrorist groups such as Boko Haram. Esekhiagbe also acknowledged the sacrifices of soldiers and security personnel, including the Nigerian Army, Police, DSS, and NSCDC, who continue to work tirelessly to protect the nation. He expressed heartfelt sympathy for the families of fallen heroes, particularly widows and orphans, underscoring the critical role these individuals played in ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians. “Their sacrifice will never be in vain,” he assured.

Menace of Boko Haram: Hunger Looms – Sen Ndume

Sen Ali Ndume, has raised the alarm saying, members of the Boko Haram terrorist group have resulted to looting immature crops of farmers in Borno state without any confrontation from security agencies.

Breaking! Tinubu Offers Scholarship To Children of slain soldiers 

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday conferred national honours on 17 members of the Nigerian Army who were killed in Delta State on March 14, 2024. This was as he announced the provision of housing facilities for the surviving family members and scholarships for all their children to the university level. He also directed the payment of death benefits to the family members within 90 days. He announced these during the burial ceremony of the slain servicemen at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja. Tinubu posthumously conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger on the Commanding Officer 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt. Col. A.H Ali; Maj S.D Shafa (N/13976); Maj D.E Obi (N/14395) and Capt U Zakari (N/16348). He also conferred the honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger on SSgt Yahaya Saidu (#3NA/36/2974); Cpl Yahaya Danbaba (1ONA/65/7274); Cpl Kabiru Bashir (11NA/66/9853); LCpl Bulus Haruna (16NA/TS/5844); LCpl Sola Opeyemi (17NA/760719); LCpl Bello Anas (17NA/76/290); LCpl Hamman Peter (NA/T82653); LCpl Ibrahim Abdullahi (18NA/77/1191); Pte Alhaji Isah (17NA/76/6079); Pte Clement Francis (19NA/78/0911); Pte Abubakar Ali (19NA/78/2162); Pte Ibrahim Adamu (19NA/78/6079) and Pte Adamu Ibrahim (21NA/80/4795).

Sowore Apologizes To Nigerian Army, Gives Reason 

Activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has apologised to the Nigerian Army (NA) for posting a video purportedly showing Okuama community in Ughelli South local government area of Delta State under military attack following the killing of 16 Army personnel of the 181 Amphibious Battalion in the State last Thursday. The viral videos show some houses on fire and was allegedly blamed on the Army as a reprisal attack on the community where the Commanding Officer of the Army Battalion, three other senior officers and 12 soldiers were ambushed and killed by suspected youths of the community. But, Sowore, who just returned to his family in the United States of America last week after about five years of being on trial in Nigeria for alleged terrorism, said he had discovered that the video was false as it depicts a different event that happened in the neighbouring Bayelsa State and not Delta State. Taking to his X handle (formerly Twitter) on Monday night, Sowore, who said he had since deleted the misleading videos, however, insisted that the Nigerian Army desist from further reprisal attacks against innocent civilians in Okuama and any other settlement in the Niger Delta region even as he called for impartial investigation into the killing of the Army personnel said to be on a mediatory and peace mission in the Okuama community. Sowore wrote: “I deleted my earlier videos that showed a burning village in the Niger Delta region that was purportedly from reprisal attacks against Okuama community by the Nigerian Army @HQNigeriaArmy upon new evidence that this was from an old different incident in Nembe, Bayelsa state. “I apologise for the wrong video. However, I insist that the Nigerian Army @HQNigeriaArmy desist from further reprisal attacks against innocent civilians in Okuama and any other settlement in the Niger Delta region, I call for an impartial investigation to unravel the real culprits involved in killing of Nigerian soldiers in Okuama. The Nigerian Armed forces must refrain from further reprisal attacks againt villages in the area. #RevolutionNow.”

Abuja Kidnappers: We Have Arrested Informants– Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that informants working for the kidnappers in the nation’s capital have been apprehended. The Minister shared the news during a town hall meeting with stakeholders and residents in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT on Friday. According to him, the end has come for kidnappers, bandits and their informants in the FCT. Wike said, “The President has asked me to assure you that he will not abandon you. So, all these criminals, be ready. Your time is up. If I say I will do something, I will do it. And now that I am here today, if you know you are an informant or even one of the criminals, the end has come for you. Security agencies and I will follow up so you won’t enter Gwagwalada again. “Some of the people giving them information, we have arrested them. If they haven’t arrested you, it doesn’t mean we won’t arrest you tomorrow or even before we leave this place.” The development is coming amidst the upsurge of kidnapping and insecurity, which has been plaguing communities in the FCT. Tension has gripped most communities after kidnappers killed three of 10 abducted victims over the delay in the payment of over N700 million ransom.

Army Debunks CDS Christopher Musa’s Death Rumours

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has vehemently denied a report claiming the demise of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa.  In a statement released on Tuesday, DHQ clarified that General Musa is alive, in good health, and recently returned from an official assignment overseas. Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, emphasized that the report alleging the death of the CDS is entirely unfounded and lacks credibility.  He further highlighted that the platform responsible for the initial publication has retracted the story and extended apologies to General Musa, his family, and the Nigerian Armed Forces. “The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to an unfortunate publication by an online newspaper alleging that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa passed away yesterday,” the statement read.  “The report is unfortunate, unethical and lacks credibility.” The DHQ reaffirmed General Musa’s well-being, stating, “To put the records straight, the CDS, General CG Musa is alive and hearty. The Chief of Defence Staff who just returned from an official assignment outside the country has resumed work with more vigour to continue with his uncommon leadership style to prosper the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”