From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The federal government has pledged to expedite action on the review of Nigeria’s defence policy as a critical component of the national security.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel
Aduda, who made this known during his maiden visit to the Defence Headquarters(DHQ), in Abuja, said his ministry would continue to collaborate with all the services to ensure that the policy was quickly reviewed.
He said the defence policy review presents an opportunity for them to begin to see how they can make that available for them in public service rules.
Aduda, who also promised enhance the welfare of personnel and address deficiencies especially in the area of barrack accommodation, said “I am already having meetings in those areas, drawing from international best practices to see how we can have the armed forces better positioned to enjoy stronger welfare provisions in that area.
“One of such is for us to see very quickly if we also can begin to think in the area of mortgage finance. I mean, just as we have the Federal Mortgage bank, as you know, there has been a very good positive increase.
“Our civil servants can now take up to N50 million as loans and pay over time.
“So perhaps we need to have one for the military and if we have it established and run with that, perhaps more of our officers will not only have houses while serving, but will have where to retire to.”
Welcoming the delegation, The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, thanked the permanent secretary for the visit.
The permanent secretary and his Directors also visited the three services as part of the familiarisation tour.