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Matawalle Hails Tinubu Over 30–80% Armed Forces Salary Increase, Says 250,000 Personnel to Benefit

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving a 30 to 80 per cent salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the decision as a major boost to troop welfare and a reward for the sacrifices of military personnel.

Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle

Dr. Matawalle, in a statement by signed by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart (CIO), for Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence said the new salary structure underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare, morale and operational effectiveness of officers and soldiers who continue to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and confront security threats across the country.

The Minister disclosed that the review of military salaries had remained a priority since the inception of the current administration and noted that he personally championed the initiative within government circles.

He commended President Tinubu for what he described as visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.

According to him, the approved salary adjustment will take effect from September 1, 2026, with about 250,000 personnel expected to benefit from the new pay package.

He explained that officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Personnel from the rank of Colonel to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.

Dr. Matawalle said the salary review forms part of the administration’s broader efforts to strengthen troop welfare as military personnel continue operations against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism nationwide.

Quoting President Tinubu, the Minister said, “The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation.”

He added that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise the welfare of troops while modernising the Armed Forces through the acquisition of weapons and advanced technological tools to enhance operational effectiveness.

The Minister also urged members of the Armed Forces to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their dedication and patriotism.
“I urge our servicemen to take this gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland.Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” he said.

ECOWAS, AES Must Set Aside Differences to Crush Terrorism, Defence Minister Musa Urges

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has called for a new era of security cooperation between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), warning that the region cannot overcome terrorism and transnational crime without a united front.

General Musa made the appeal on Tuesday as he arrived in Cotonou, Benin Republic, for a three-day working visit focused on strengthening regional defence cooperation and harmonising strategies to combat insurgency, cross-border crime and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. He was received at the Cotonou International Airport by Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan.

Addressing defence officials, the minister stressed that the security threats confronting West Africa have become increasingly interconnected, making collaboration among regional blocs imperative. He urged the leadership of ECOWAS and the AES to bridge existing divides, secure porous land borders against terrorist infiltration and intensify joint efforts to safeguard the Gulf of Guinea from criminal activities.

General Musa said lasting peace and stability in the sub-region would only be achieved through intelligence sharing, coordinated military operations and stronger diplomatic engagement among neighbouring countries.

Responding, Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan, praised Nigeria’s leadership in promoting peace and security across West Africa. He described the country as a dependable partner in efforts to combat transnational crime and preserve democratic governance within the region.

Agonkan also commended the professionalism displayed by the Nigerian Army contingent during Benin’s National Day parade on August 1, noting that their performance reflected the strength and discipline of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.

During the visit, General Musa met with Nigerian troops stationed at Togbin, where he conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s continued commitment to improving troop welfare, boosting operational effectiveness and enhancing the capacity of the Armed Forces to address emerging security threats.

The Defence Minister also visited the Nigeria House in Cotonou, where he held talks with Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim. The ambassador reaffirmed that Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with Benin remains centred on expanding bilateral trade while deepening joint border surveillance to strengthen security cooperation between both countries.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

Defence Minister Unveils South-East Basketball Championship, Donates ₦2m to Abia Youth Camp

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has unveiled plans for a South East Regional Basketball Championship aimed at identifying and developing grassroots sporting talent, while announcing a ₦2 million donation to support a youth basketball camp in Abia State.

General Musa made the announcement in Umuahia after inspecting the Umuahia Township Stadium at the end of his three-day official working visit to Abia State. During the visit, he interacted with young participants at the inaugural multi-age basketball camp organised by the Crossover Foundation and sponsored by Nigerian diaspora basketball stars Godsgift Achiuwa and Precious Achiuwa.

The Defence Minister commended the Crossover Foundation and the Abia State Government for collaborating to expand youth sports infrastructure across the state, describing the initiative as a strategic investment in the nation’s future.

An avid basketball enthusiast, General Musa announced an immediate donation of ₦2,000,000 to support the camp’s operations and assured participants that the proposed regional championship would provide a competitive platform bringing together emerging basketball talents from all five South-East states.

He urged parents to encourage their children to participate in organised sports, stressing that athletics remains a vital tool for building discipline, leadership qualities and national unity.

The Minister also disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would soon commence targeted sports recruitment programmes to provide talented young athletes with opportunities to pursue careers in the military through sports.

In appreciation of his support for youth development through sports, the organisers presented General Musa with a signed basketball at the end of the visit.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

Defence Minister Unveils South-East Basketball Championship, Donates ₦2m to Abia Youth Camp

Emmanuel Daudu

He urged parents to encourage their children to participate in organised sports, stressing that athletics remains a vital tool for building discipline, leadership qualities and national unity.

In appreciation of his support for youth development through sports, the organisers presented General Musa with a signed basketball at the end of the visit.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

CONYSSA Honours Prince Emeka Dennis for Entrepreneurship, Youth Empowerment

Maryam Aminu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has honoured entrepreneur and business leader Prince Emeka Dennis with an award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, job creation and socio-economic development.

The honour was presented by CONYSSA as part of its efforts to recognise individuals whose achievements and leadership continue to inspire young Nigerians and promote national development through enterprise and innovation.

Prince Dennis, the Chief Executive Officer of Infinite Luxury Homes and Work & Chop Luxury Autos, was commended for building successful businesses while creating opportunities for young people through mentorship, skills development, business guidance and employment.

A native of Azia Community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, the award recipient was described as a visionary entrepreneur whose businesses have earned recognition for professionalism, innovation and customer satisfaction.

According to CONYSSA, Dennis has remained committed to developing human capital by encouraging young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship, acquire practical skills and become economically productive. The organisation noted that his dedication to empowering youths has inspired many to pursue legitimate businesses and become creators of wealth rather than dependents.

CONYSSA further praised his leadership philosophy, anchored on excellence, discipline, accountability and continuous learning, saying his enterprises have become platforms where aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals can build sustainable careers.

CONYSSA said the award recognises Dennis’ enduring contributions to entrepreneurship, youth development, innovation, job creation and economic growth, describing him as a worthy ambassador of excellence whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

AFN Deals Major Blow To Terrorists, Rescues 393 Kidnap Victims, Neutralises Over 102 Criminals In July Operations

By Dr Emmanuel Daudu Ph.D

Abuja, July 31, 2026 – The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded another significant milestone in the country’s ongoing war against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other violent crimes, neutralising over 102 terrorists and criminal elements, rescuing 393 kidnapped victims, arresting 345 suspects and recovering large caches of weapons and ammunition during coordinated nationwide military operations in July 2026.

The remarkable achievements were unveiled on Friday during the monthly operational briefing by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who spoke on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, GCOR, AFM.

According to the military, troops operating across all theatres of operations maintained sustained offensive pressure against terrorists, kidnappers, armed militias, secessionist groups, sea pirates, oil thieves and other criminal networks, resulting in the rescue of hundreds of abducted victims and the dismantling of several criminal enclaves across the country.

In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI intensified operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Adamawa, Borno, Yobe and Bauchi States, eliminating 54 terrorists, arresting 102 insurgents and rescuing 102 kidnapped victims.

Among the major breakthroughs was the killing of Abu Salim al-Barnawi, described as a senior ISWAP commander and propaganda chief, during a fierce military engagement in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

Military offensives also forced dozens of terrorists and their family members to surrender, including a senior ISWAP finance operative who voluntarily surrendered alongside weapons, ammunition, cash and two children after sustained military bombardments weakened the insurgents’ operational capacity.

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA operating across Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi States recorded another impressive outing by rescuing 191 kidnapped victims while neutralising 33 terrorists and arresting 66 criminal suspects.

Military operations successfully foiled several mass abduction attempts, rescued a local government chairman’s family, secured the release of dozens of kidnapped commuters and prevented terrorists from consolidating control in several communities.

Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE collectively recorded significant victories against terrorists, armed militias and kidnappers operating across Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Kwara, Kaduna, Plateau and Taraba States.

Notably, troops neutralised notorious terrorist kingpin Puuga in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, dismantled several criminal camps, arrested dozens of militia members and rescued numerous kidnapped civilians.

The military equally intercepted arms traffickers, recovered sophisticated weapons and destroyed terrorist hideouts used as operational bases for kidnapping and violent attacks.

In the Niger Delta, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE sustained relentless operations against economic saboteurs, dismantling 18 illegal refining sites while recovering over 250,500 litres of stolen petroleum products.

Several notorious kidnapping syndicates were also dismantled in Edo, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States as troops arrested multiple suspects and rescued dozens of kidnapped victims during coordinated land and maritime operations.

Military operations under Operation UDO KA in the South-East also yielded positive results with the arrest of 26 criminal suspects linked to separatist activities, gunrunning and kidnapping.

Troops recovered several assault rifles, pump-action guns, ammunition and other military hardware while dismantling illegal bunkering facilities and criminal hideouts across Abia, Imo, Enugu and Rivers States.

The Air Component of the Armed Forces complemented ground troops through precision air strikes and intelligence-driven operations that eliminated terrorist formations in Niger State while enabling kidnapped victims to escape from captivity.

According to the military, precision surveillance and coordinated strikes significantly degraded terrorist movements and operational capabilities during the month under review.

Beyond combat operations, the Armed Forces continued implementing Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects across several states, including the construction of boreholes, schools, transformers, town halls and mediation initiatives aimed at promoting peace and strengthening relationships with host communities.

Troops also participated in humanitarian interventions, including cholera response activities in Borno State and community engagement programmes designed to foster public confidence and cooperation.

Commending troops for their courage and professionalism, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, praised the synergy among the Armed Forces, other security agencies and local vigilante groups, noting that their collaboration continues to produce tangible results against criminal elements nationwide.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that the Armed Forces remain fully committed to protecting lives, safeguarding national assets and ensuring that terrorism, kidnapping, separatist violence and other forms of criminality are decisively defeated.

The military also urged Nigerians to continue providing credible intelligence through military formations and the toll-free emergency line 193, assuring citizens that all information received would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.

Pastor Korede Komaiya’s Leadership Style Worthy Of Emulation – Ashimolowo

The Senior Pastor of, Kingsway International Christian Centre (KiCC), Pastor Mathew Ashimolow has called on leaders to emulate the leadership model and kingdom-minded approach of Pastor Korede Komaiya.

Ashimolowo made the remark during his visit to the newly dedicated Dreamland complex at Master’s City, Warri, where he ministered on the theme, “Timely Technology for Timeless Truth.”

Speaking at the event, he emphasized the need for a generation of leaders who are spiritually grounded and equipped for contemporary challenges.

According to him, “This time requires leaders who are spiritually deep, mentally sharp, emotionally stable, and financially wise. What we see here today is the result of Pastor Komaiya’s kingdom-mindedness, heart and unwavering commitment to God’s work.”

Commending the vision behind the project, Ashimolowo noted that many leaders would have prioritized personal luxury over such a monumental kingdom investment.

“One thing I can tell you about this big work is that, many people would not build something this massive when they could build mansions for themselves. Yet, he still lives more or less in a rented place and modestly because his heart is kingdom-first,” he said.

He further stressed the importance of sacrificial leadership and investment in God’s work, adding that leaders must set the example for those they lead.

“Kingdom-mindedness is not common in this generation, especially among founders. If you cannot invest in your own ministry, how do you expect your members to invest? People are watching your priorities and your commitment,” Ashimolowo stated.

Expressing his admiration for the project, he recalled his reaction when he first saw images of the completed facility.

“I had never been here before, but when they sent me pictures after the finishing touches were completed, I was overwhelmed. I found myself speaking in tongues because I did not know what else to do,” he added.

The newly dedicated Dreamland complex, located at Master’s City, KM 3 Refinery Road, Warri, Delta State, features two four-storey wings equipped with elevators, a central heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, as well as a state-of-the-art main auditorium built to international standards.

NiMet, AKADEMIYA2063 Sign MoU to Advance AI, Climate Services and Food Security

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and AKADEMIYA2063 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, to strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), climate and weather data analytics, climate information services, and evidence-based research to enhance climate resilience, agricultural productivity, and food security.

The MoU was signed on behalf of NiMet by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Prof. Charles Anosike, while Dr. Debisi Araba, Managing Director, and Dr. Racine Ly, Director of Data Intelligence & Governance and National Representative for Senegal, signed on behalf of AKADEMIYA2063.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Prof. Anosike said NiMet is positioning itself for the future by embracing artificial intelligence and digital innovation. He noted that the Agency had already constituted an AI Research Team to explore the application of AI and machine learning in weather forecasting, climate services, and operational efficiency, adding that the partnership with AKADEMIYA2063 would further strengthen these efforts.

Dr. Araba described the collaboration as an important step towards strengthening Africa’s capacity in data, analytics, and evidence-based policymaking, noting that combining AKADEMIYA2063’s expertise with NiMet’s meteorological capabilities would deliver practical solutions for climate resilience, food security and sustainable development.

As part of the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both organisations agreed to collaborate on the application of artificial intelligence to support climate monitoring, seasonal forecasting, early warning systems, and evidence-based decision-making, with the goal of strengthening AI-enabled climate services and agricultural planning in Nigeria. To drive the partnership, the two organisations will establish a Joint Technical Committee that will work closely with NiMet’s AI Research Team to identify priority areas of collaboration, coordinate activities under the MoU, and develop joint initiatives that advance climate services, AI research, innovation, and sustainable development.

Tinubu Pays Glowing Tribute to Aguiyi-Ironsi, Says His Legacy of Unity Still Defines Nigeria at 60

By Emmanuel Daudu

Sixty years after the assassination of Nigeria’s first Military Head of State, Late General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that the late military leader’s legacy of patriotism, courage and selfless service remains a powerful symbol of national unity, urging Nigerians to uphold the values of sacrifice and cohesion that he stood for.

The President’s tribute was delivered by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) OFR, at the 60th Memorial Celebration held in Umuahia, Abia State, on July 29, 2026, where political leaders, military chiefs, elder statesmen and members of the Aguiyi-Ironsi family gathered to honour the country’s first indigenous General Officer Commanding and First Military Head of State.

In the presidential message, Tinubu described General Aguiyi-Ironsi as an exceptional military officer whose distinguished career was defined by discipline, loyalty and unwavering dedication to Nigeria, noting that he assumed leadership at one of the nation’s most turbulent moments with an unshakable commitment to preserving the country’s unity.

The President said although General Aguiyi-Ironsi’s time in office was short, his leadership reflected courage, integrity and a willingness to place national interest above personal considerations.

According to him, the sacrifices made by the late military leader continue to inspire the Federal Government’s determination to strengthen national security, deepen democratic governance and preserve Nigeria’s unity despite its diversity.

Tinubu stressed that the administration remains committed to building a peaceful and prosperous nation through justice, mutual respect, tolerance and strong institutions, describing Nigeria’s diversity as one of its greatest strengths rather than a source of division.

He also conveyed the appreciation and enduring gratitude of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the family of the late General, while commending the organisers of the memorial for ensuring that the contributions of one of Nigeria’s foremost national heroes are not forgotten.

The ceremony also featured tributes from former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, who described General Aguiyi-Ironsi as a patriotic soldier who found himself at the centre of one of the country’s defining historical moments.

Obasanjo said the late military leader’s life should remind every generation that Nigeria’s unity came at enormous sacrifice and must never be taken for granted.

He urged Nigerians to honour the fallen leader not merely through annual commemorations but by safeguarding the peace, professionalism and institutional integrity of the Armed Forces while promoting national cohesion.

Host Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, described General Aguiyi-Ironsi as one of the state’s greatest sons whose courage and supreme sacrifice remain a source of pride for Abia and the nation.

The governor thanked the Federal Government, the military high command and distinguished guests for honouring the late statesman in Umuahia, adding that his administration draws inspiration from the late General’s legacy in pursuing good governance, justice and unity across Nigeria.

Among dignitaries present at the memorial were former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, former Chief of Army Staff Lt General Azubuike Ihejirika, serving and retired military officers, lawmakers, traditional rulers and other prominent personalities.

The event concluded with prayers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Aguiyi-Ironsi family and the continued peace, unity and prosperity of the country.

Tinubu to Announce Fresh Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel – Defence Minister

By Emmanuel Daudu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will soon announce a new salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen troop welfare and reward their sacrifices, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has disclosed.

General Musa made the announcement on Monday in Abuja during a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop for widows and wives of service personnel, where he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and their families through strategic policies and partnerships.

The Minister said the planned pay review would build on the previous increase that raised the minimum salary for soldiers from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000 during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff.

Honourable Minister of Defence,General Christopher Gwabin Musa

“I want to state here that a few weeks ago, I mentioned that soldiers are now receiving ₦100,000. When I was Chief of Defence Staff, soldiers were receiving ₦49,000. About two years ago, I pushed for an increase to ₦100,000, and that was achieved. We are, however, making further efforts to increase it again,” General Musa said.

He added, “I am confident that very soon, Mr. President will announce another salary increase for our men.”

Speaking on the theme, “Renewed Hope for Families of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Through Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development,” the Defence Minister stressed that the strength of the military depends not only on operational capability but also on the economic stability of the families of serving personnel.

He commended military spouses for supporting their loved ones serving on the frontlines and paid tribute to widows whose husbands died in service to the nation.

“To the spouses gathered here today, your resilience, patience, and steadfast support give your loved ones the confidence to remain focused on their responsibilities,” he said, adding that the courage and perseverance of military widows remain a source of inspiration.

The capacity-building programme was organised by the Federal Ministry of Defence in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

Earlier, the Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii, announced the disbursement of ₦25 million to 500 widows and wives of soldiers currently serving on the frontlines to support their businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.

According to him, the initiative is part of a nationwide programme aimed at equipping beneficiaries with financial knowledge and entrepreneurial skills, while promoting financial inclusion across the country.

The event was attended by the wife of the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, senior officials of the Ministry of Defence, SMEDAN development partners and other stakeholders.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, S.A. (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.