Reps caucus seeks improved welfare for military

From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja

The minority caucus in the House of Representatives has called for an improved welfare scheme, as well as, enhanced security equipment for the armed forces.

The caucus, in a statement by the minority leader, Kingsley Chinda and three others, on Friday, said this is imperative, owing to the effects of insecurity on Nigeria’s economic growth.

The opposition lawmakers, while felicitating the military on the occasion of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, noted the sacrifices of soldiers, who have paid the supreme price in the service of the country.

The caucus, while noting the spate of insecurity in the country, implored officers and men of the armed forces not to rest on their oars, with an assurance of the prayers and good wishes of Nigerians at all times.

It said “on the occasion of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives salutes the sacrifices of our gallant soldiers who paid the ultimate prize; at various epoch for the sovereignty, and defence of our country.

” We also note that today, January 15th; which is marked yearly, to remember the exploits and contributions of past and present military officers and men to national security, gives every citizen the opportunity to have an introspection and canvass for harmonious relationships, peaceful coexistence, and national cohesion of all, amid the growing security challenges.

“Given the rising trend of insecurity across the country, and cognisant of the courageous efforts of the armed forces in tackling, and addressing the menace, the Caucus wishes to admonish our officers and men not to rest on their oars. We like to reiterate that, they are assured of the prayers and good wishes of all Nigerians at all times, and in all situations.

“Conscious of the effects of insecurity on economic growth and national development, the Caucus urges the Federal Government to evolve necessary measures towards improving the welfare schemes of the armed forces, and the provision of enhanced security equipment, arms and ammunition that will enable the military to effectively and efficiently curtail, and possibly wipe out the purveyors of varied insecurity in the country.”