In a significant move to enhance the welfare of military personnel and their families, President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate payment of insurance entitlements to the families of officers and soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. The announcement was made by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, during the combined second and third quarters COAS conference held in Abuja.

The COAS emphasized the paramount importance of the welfare of troops and their families, pledging to strengthen existing welfare arrangements to improve their well-being. In addition to providing better living quarters for personnel, the newly introduced ‘Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers Scheme’ aims to offer affordable and high-quality post-service homes for soldiers. The army also commits to ensuring that injured personnel receive top-notch medical care and continued support for the widows and next-of-kin of fallen heroes.

Speculations and Implications of the Insurance Payments

Speculations surrounding the insurance payments suggest that the move may be related to concerns about military coups in Africa. While some African leaders have opted to retire senior army officers and reorganize the military to address these concerns, President Tinubu’s approach focuses on improving the welfare of Nigerian soldiers. This includes revitalizing the dormant insurance policy for the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Many Nigerians hope that this insurance policy will also be extended to the Nigerian Police Force. President Tinubu’s efforts are seen as a potential strategy to bolster the Nigerian Army’s capabilities in the fight against terrorism, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, and kidnappers.