2026 AFCRD: CDS Assures Troops of Improved Welfare, Unveils Plans for Loans, Post-Retirement Support
2026 AFCRD: CDS Assures Troops of Improved Welfare, Unveils Plans for Loans, Post-Retirement Support
2026 AFCRD: CDS Assures Troops of Improved Welfare, Unveils Plans for Loans, Post-Retirement Support
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) that concrete steps are underway to significantly improve their welfare, with strong backing from the highest level of government.
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General Oluyede gave the assurance while addressing personnel at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Social Night, organised by the Defence Headquarters to honour serving personnel, veterans, and fallen heroes.
The Defence Chief urged troops to remain resolute, hopeful, and steadfast, noting that the welfare reform process is ongoing and that 2026 would usher in notable improvements in living and service conditions for members of the Armed Forces.
He disclosed that beyond the welfare of serving personnel, the Defence Headquarters is prioritising the wellbeing of retired officers and men, particularly the challenge of sustainable livelihoods after retirement. According to him, with the approval and support of President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Defence Headquarters is engaging financial institutions to introduce soft loan schemes for spouses of service personnel at highly reduced interest rates.
General Oluyede explained that the initiative is aimed at supporting viable business ventures, strengthening family stability, and ensuring long-term financial security for military families. He also announced ongoing engagements to expand access to housing loans to complement existing service housing schemes, with the goal of ensuring personnel retire with personal homes, sustainable income sources, and a sense of fulfilment after years of dedicated service.
Drawing inspiration from football, the CDS reassured personnel with Liverpool Football Club’s motto, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” emphasising that the Armed Forces leadership remains firmly committed to standing by all serving and retired personnel.
He commended troops for their resilience, courage, and professionalism across all theatres of operation, from the northern savannahs and southern creeks to Nigeria’s airspace. He also acknowledged the critical role of military families, describing them as “silent heroes” whose patience, prayers, and sacrifices sustain the morale and fighting spirit of the Armed Forces.
The CDS expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening the operational capability, welfare, and morale of the Armed Forces, and also commended the Service Chiefs for their leadership efforts.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Administration (CDA), Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, described the Social Night as a special gathering designed to allow personnel to unwind, reflect, and celebrate. He noted that the event also served as a solemn moment to honour and remember fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.
The Social Night formed part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal S.K. Aneke; and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General E.A.P. Undiandeye. Highpoints of the event included performances by renowned music icons Tuface Idibia, Zule Zoo, Magnito, and others.
2026 AFCRD: CDS Assures Troops of Improved Welfare, Unveils Plans for Loans, Post-Retirement Support
