NIGERIA: Senate Commits To Improving Welfare Of Nigerian Armed Forces

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and enhancing the welfare and well-being of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, by providing the resources needed to enhance their capabilities.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Ahmad Lawan made this pledge, during an oversight visit to the Defence Space Administration (DSA), the National Defence College, and the Military Pensions Board (MPB), on Monday.

According to Senator Lawan, in a statement by his media aide, Ezrel Tabiowo, in Abuja, the visit, aimed at monitoring activities of the Nigerian Armed Forces and its various agencies, as part of the Committee’s mandate to monitor and provide oversight for these agencies.

During an interactive session at the DSA, the Committee had a session with the leadership of the agency, where the DSA’s Director-General, Air Vice-Marshal Lanre Oluwatoyin, highlighted on the importance of the agency, its operational capabilities, and its role in enhancing Nigeria’s defense capabilities.

Members of the Committee also praised the leadership of the DSA for their efforts and reaffirmed their continued support for the administration.

The delegation also visited the defence college, and were received by the Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, who provided insights into the College’s training programs, curriculum, and facilities.

The Committee however expressed satisfaction with the college’s efforts to appropriately train and develop officers for leadership roles in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Air Vice Marshal Paul Ichibor Irumheson, also presented the committee with an overview of the board’s modus operandi, their obstacles, and proposed solutions.

Senator Lawan, in his remarks, emphasised and encouraged the importance of ensuring timely payment of pensions to retired military personnel and their families.

Addressing the agencies, the former Senate President, Senator Lawan commended the dedication and commitment of Nigerian Armed Forces to protect the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He applauded the leadership of the various agencies for their dedication and professionalism.

“Your commitment to ensuring the security and stability of our great nation is commendable. The Senate Committee on Defence will continue to provide the necessary support and resources to enhance your capabilities and ensure the well-being of our Armed Forces personnel”, Senator Lawan said.

The leadership of the visited agencies also expressed their appreciation for the Committee’s interest and support and pledged the committee of their commitment to fulfilling their mandates effectively.