The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has approved the continuation of salary payments for up to 12 months to the families of personnel who die in the line of duty.
The welfare initiative was authorised by the Chief of the Air Staff, Hasan Bala Abubakar, as part of measures aimed at strengthening support for the families of fallen service members.
A senior NAF official, who spoke anonymously on Sunday in Abuja, disclosed that the policy allows the spouses or next of kin of Air Force personnel killed in action to continue receiving their salaries after their death.
According to the source, existing public service rules require salary payments to stop immediately once a personnel member dies. However, the new directive permits salaries to continue for up to 12 months from the date of death or until all death benefits and entitlements have been processed and paid—whichever comes first.
The official explained that the policy is intended to ease the financial burden on bereaved families during the period required to complete administrative procedures for death benefits.
He also revealed that the Chief of the Air Staff has approved additional welfare packages for officers, airmen and airwomen in the service.
“These measures are aimed at cushioning the prevailing economic pressures and reinforcing the NAF’s commitment to the wellbeing of its personnel.
“These initiatives are part of a broader welfare reform agenda built on the understanding that the wellbeing of personnel and their families is a strategic enabler of combat effectiveness.
“Enhanced welfare drives effective warfare, ensuring that no airman is left unequipped, untrained or unmotivated,” the source said.
The official added that the initiative highlights the Air Force’s determination to honour the sacrifices of personnel who lose their lives in service while ensuring their families receive adequate support.
