ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Minister of Defence has explained how the federal government approved an increase in the monthly salary of soldiers to ₦100,000, describing the decision as part of broader efforts to improve the welfare and morale of personnel serving in the Armed Forces.
The minister said the pay increase was achieved through sustained engagement with President Bola Tinubu and other relevant government authorities, who recognised the need to enhance the welfare of military personnel confronting security challenges across the country.
According to him, improving the living conditions of soldiers remains a key priority of the current administration, noting that better remuneration is essential for maintaining morale, strengthening operational effectiveness and rewarding the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
He explained that the salary review formed part of wider reforms within the defence sector aimed at boosting the capacity of the military through improved welfare packages, better equipment, enhanced training and increased operational support.
The minister disclosed that discussions are ongoing to secure additional improvements in the welfare of soldiers, including further salary reviews and better allowances, while efforts continue to upgrade accommodation, healthcare services and other benefits available to military personnel and their families.
He noted that members of the armed forces have continued to play a crucial role in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other forms of criminality across different parts of the country, often under difficult conditions.
The minister commended Nigerian troops for their courage, professionalism and commitment to protecting the country’s territorial integrity despite the security challenges confronting the nation. He assured them that the government remains committed to providing the resources needed to support ongoing military operations.
He also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces by providing credible intelligence and cooperating with security agencies in the fight against insecurity, stressing that national security is a shared responsibility.
Security analysts have repeatedly argued that improved welfare, alongside better equipment, intelligence gathering and operational planning, remains critical to enhancing the effectiveness of Nigeria’s military in addressing evolving security threats.
The minister reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces through sustained investment in personnel welfare, modern military hardware and institutional reforms, expressing confidence that ongoing initiatives would further improve the operational capacity and professionalism of the nation’s security forces.
