Nigerian Air Force doubles ration cash allowance in bold move to boost personnel welfare

In a significant move to enhance the welfare and operational readiness of its personnel, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has approved a 100% increase in the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) for its officers and airmen.

The announcement was made by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during the commissioning of a newly renovated 160-room ensuite accommodation block at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base in Lagos on Sunday. This upgrade is part of a broader initiative to improve living conditions and morale among NAF personnel.

According to Air Marshal Abubakar, the welfare of airmen remains a top priority, and the recent improvements—including the RCA increase and upgraded facilities—are designed to support the overall effectiveness and commitment of the force.

“NAF has rolled out a series of transformative initiatives designed to boost morale, enhance well-being, and improve operational efficiency across its units. These include a 100 per cent increase in Ration Cash Allowance as part of the 2025 budget, substantial insurance payouts under a newly introduced Group Personal Accident Insurance Policy, and large-scale distribution of new uniforms and accoutrements as well as an upward review of the monthly electricity subsidy for Sam Ethnan Air Force Base,” the statement partly read.

The event underscored the Air Force’s renewed focus on personnel welfare as a central aspect of its strategic agenda.

Further speaking at the event, Abubakar noted that 23 personnel had already benefited from the new Group Personal Accident Insurance Policy, with nine receiving payments in recent weeks.

He explained that the insurance plan covers a range of scenarios including injury, disability, death, hospitalisation costs, and salary reimbursement during treatment.

“The NAF has increased electricity subsidies for the Sam Ethnan base and procured new medical equipment for the 661 NAF Hospital, Ikeja. These interventions are part of a wider transformation to ensure our personnel are well-equipped and motivated. Your service and sacrifice remain the cornerstone upon which we are building a stronger, more capable Air Force,” he added.

Additionally, he announced that distribution of new uniforms and accoutrements was ongoing, with the goal of reaching full coverage within two weeks.

Beyond welfare allowances and uniforms, the Air Force is also executing over 470 infrastructure projects across Nigeria. Of these, 295 have been completed, with more than ₦61 billion already committed. These projects encompass residential buildings, operational facilities, health centres, religious venues, and sports amenities.

Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun, Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, commended the Air Chief for what he described as compassionate and results-driven leadership.

“The newly commissioned accommodation and welfare projects will no doubt raise morale and enhance mission effectiveness,” he said, while reaffirming the commitment and loyalty of personnel under his command.