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The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has announced that the Federal Government has increased the minimum monthly salary of Nigerian soldiers from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000 as part of efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel. Speaking during an interview with News Central, Musa acknowledged that although the pay rise represents significant progress, funding for the armed forces remains insufficient to fully address the military’s operational and welfare needs.
According to the minister, the salary review reflects the government’s commitment to boosting troop morale and enhancing the welfare of rank-and-file soldiers. He, however, maintained that the current defence budget is still inadequate to meet the demands of ongoing security operations across the country. Musa also dismissed allegations circulating on social media that soldiers are poorly fed, claiming that a viral video by influencer Justice Crack was deliberately staged to misrepresent the quality of meals provided to troops.
Beyond welfare, Musa reiterated his call for tougher measures against insecurity, including the introduction of the death penalty for convicted kidnappers, arguing that stronger deterrents are needed to combat the country’s growing kidnapping crisis. He also assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to improving the welfare, equipment and operational effectiveness of the armed forces despite prevailing financial constraints.
