Officers and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have been reassured by Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), that significant efforts are being made to improve the pay and general well-being of men and women in uniform. At the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Social Night for soldiers, ratings, airmen, and airwomen in Abuja on Monday, Oluyede made the promise. He stated that Bola Tinubu, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has approved the effort, which is being carried out in collaboration with the Service Chiefs. “If I tell you we are working on something, please be hopeful. Something positive will come up,” he said.
The CDS promised that 2026 would be a better year for military members. In addition to raising salaries, he said that plans were being finalised to strengthen post-service welfare for employees, specifically through the availability of soft loans for spouses and cheap housing programs for active and retired members.
He claims that talks are underway with financial institutions to offer low-interest loans to spouses of military members so they can start long-term companies and that housing loan alternatives are being increased to guarantee that employees retire with dignity.
The military chief praised airmen, airwomen, soldiers, and ratings for their professionalism and tenacity in defending Nigeria's sovereignty in all operational areas. He pointed out that their sacrifices had continued to result in notable operational achievements around the country.
In addition, he honoured dead heroes and recognised the vital role played by military families, characterising their sacrifices and prayers as a silent but potent force behind every mission's success. Oluyede thanked the President for his steadfast support of the Armed Forces and the Service Chiefs for their leadership and dedication to raising employee morale and welfare.
The Chief of Defence Administration (CDA), Rear Adm. According to Gideon Kachim, the Social Night is a purposeful and unique event intended to provide staff members with a chance to relax, think, and celebrate.
According to Kachim, the event also offered a sombre opportunity to respect and remember departed heroes who gave their lives defending the country, emphasising that their efforts continue to serve as a constant source of motivation for active military troops.
One of the events commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day was the Social Night.
Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye were present.
The awarding of worthy employees for exceptional work and commitment to duty was one of the event's high points. Legendary musicians Tuface Idibia, Zule Zoo, and Magnito, among others, performed during the occasion.