The former General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church, Prophet Samuel Abiara, has called on President Bola Tinubu to improve the welfare of Nigerian soldiers following the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Abiara made the appeal during a telephone interview with journalists while congratulating Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on the successful operation that secured the release of the victims after 56 days in captivity.

The cleric also commended Tinubu for sustaining efforts to tackle insecurity, describing the rescue as evidence of the government’s determination to confront criminal groups.

He, however, said greater attention should now be given to the welfare of military personnel leading the fight against banditry and terrorism.

“I appeal directly to President Bola Tinubu to meticulously take care of the families of security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“We must ensure their children and spouses are not abandoned. Our soldiers risk everything under the President’s command; their salaries should be increased, and their well-being must remain a top priority so they can confidently discharge their duties,” Abiara said.

He urged the Federal Government to review the salaries, allowances and welfare packages of serving personnel, saying improved conditions of service would strengthen morale and operational effectiveness.