President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the long-awaited Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
This landmark decision was made on Monday during a National Defence Council meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The announcement was shared by Dada Olusegun, the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle.
Olusegun called the development a crucial step in improving the welfare of military personnel.
“President Tinubu presides over the National Defense Council meeting, approved the new harmonised terms and conditions of service (HTACOS) officers, soldiers/ratings/airmen,” he posted.
The HTACOS is designed to address numerous challenges faced by the armed forces over the years.
It offers a unified framework to streamline policies and improve conditions of service for officers and enlisted personnel alike.
The new terms are expected to boost the morale of soldiers, ratings, and airmen, who are critical to Nigeria’s national security.
This development comes amidst growing concerns about the welfare of military personnel, especially those engaged in combating terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
President Tinubu emphasized his administration’s commitment to strengthening the armed forces.
“Our military men and women are the guardians of Nigeria’s stability and territorial integrity,” he reportedly said during the meeting.
He reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring their welfare as a key aspect of his administration’s agenda.
Observers believe this move signals a new chapter for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Military sources say the previous conditions of service were outdated and failed to reflect modern realities.
The revised HTACOS is expected to enhance operational readiness while providing clear career progression and improved benefits.
Analysts have praised Tinubu for addressing this issue within months of assuming office.
“This is a bold step,” said Olanrewaju Ishola, an analyst.
“For years, the military cried out for reforms. This approval shows the President’s commitment to national security.”
The move also aligns with broader welfare reforms initiated by Tinubu since taking office.
From healthcare improvements to housing schemes, the administration has repeatedly promised to prioritize the needs of public servants.
The announcement has been met with optimism by serving and retired members of the armed forces.
The new HTACOS comes at a time when the military faces immense pressure to tackle insecurity across the country.
From Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast to banditry in the northwest, military personnel operate under high-stress conditions.
Better service terms are seen as a way to motivate them to perform even better.
While the specifics of the new conditions are yet to be fully disclosed, sources say it will include improved retirement benefits, healthcare, and allowances.
