Abuja, Nigeria — December 16, 2024
In a landmark decision aimed at enhancing the welfare and operational efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) for officers and enlisted personnel. This approval marks a significant step in addressing longstanding concerns about service conditions within the military.
The announcement was made by the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, who described the decision as a morale booster for soldiers, ratings, and airmen across the nation.
“President Tinubu presides over the National Defense Council meeting, approved the new harmonized terms and conditions of service (HTACOS) for officers, soldiers, ratings, and airmen,” Olusegun wrote on his verified X handle.
A Commitment to National Security
President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to supporting the Nigerian Armed Forces during a high-level National Defense Council meeting. Emphasizing the pivotal role of the military in safeguarding national security, he highlighted the need for policies that prioritize their welfare and operational readiness.
The revised HTACOS aims to:
- Address Age-Long Concerns: Resolve systemic issues related to service conditions for military personnel.
- Streamline Policies: Harmonize frameworks to create uniform service standards for officers and enlisted personnel.
- Boost Morale: Enhance the welfare of armed forces members to improve their focus and dedication to duty.
Strategic Welfare Reforms
Olusegun further noted that the harmonized framework aligns with the administration’s broader strategy of prioritizing welfare reforms and strengthening institutional structures. This development reflects President Tinubu’s vision of creating a more motivated and efficient defense force to tackle Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
The approval of the revised HTACOS underscores the administration’s understanding of the military’s crucial role and its commitment to ensuring the armed forces are well-equipped and well-catered for, both in and out of service.
This policy shift is expected to bolster confidence within the ranks, signaling a new era of reform and support for Nigeria’s defenders.