Defence Minister Confirms Imminent Salary Increase for Soldiers

By Eshioromeh Sebastian

The Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has confirmed that President Bola Tinubu is set to announce a fresh salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the coming weeks.

Speaking at a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop for widows and wives of service personnel held at Lungi Barracks, Abuja, the Minister disclosed that the planned pay review is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to improve troop welfare and recognise the sacrifices they make in defending the nation.

Reflecting on the previous salary adjustment, General Musa stated: “I want to state here that a few weeks ago, I mentioned that soldiers are now receiving ₦100,000, and I know that generated both positive and negative reactions.”

He detailed the background to the earlier increment: “When I was Chief of Defence Staff, soldiers were receiving ₦49,000. About two years ago, I pushed for an increase to ₦100,000, and that was achieved.”

The Minister expressed confidence that the current administration would follow through on further adjustments. “We are, however, making further efforts to increase it again. We know our President is a listening father who understands the sacrifices our troops are making and is committed to ensuring they are well remunerated,” he said.

“So, I am confident that very soon, Mr President will announce another salary increase for our men,” Musa added.

The Minister further noted: “Every day, our personnel confront complex security challenges in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the protection of the lives and property of our citizens,” highlighting the difficult conditions under which troops serve.

The workshop, themed “Renewed Hope for Families of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Through Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development,” was organised by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). The programme aims to strengthen the economic resilience of military families, particularly widows and spouses of personnel serving in operational theatres across the country.

While the Minister did not disclose specific figures or a precise date for the announcement, he assured attendees that the process was underway and that soldiers would soon receive positive news regarding their compensation.