The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has disclosed that the Federal Government has increased the minimum monthly salary of Nigerian soldiers from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000, describing the move as part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel despite funding challenges facing the armed forces.
Key Highlights:
- Minimum monthly salary of Nigerian soldiers increased from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000.
- Defence Minister Christopher Musa says soldiers’ welfare has improved under recent reforms.
- Minister admits the Nigerian military still faces funding constraints.
- Musa backs the death penalty for convicted kidnappers to strengthen deterrence.
- Bandits holding abducted Oyo schoolchildren allegedly threatened to kill the victims if troops attempt a rescue.
- Defence Minister dismisses claims that Nigerian soldiers are poorly fed.
Speaking during an interview with News Central ahead of Friday’s NC Exclusive programme, Musa said the salary review forms part of broader welfare initiatives introduced by the Federal Government to boost troop morale and operational effectiveness.
According to the minister, although significant progress has been made in improving soldiers’ welfare, the Nigerian Armed Forces remain underfunded and require greater financial support to effectively tackle the country’s security challenges.
“When they started, a soldier was collecting ₦49,000 monthly. We tried so hard; now he’s collecting ₦100,000,” Musa said.
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The Defence Minister also renewed his call for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers, arguing that stricter punishments are necessary to curb the rising wave of abductions and violent crimes across Nigeria.
Addressing the recent kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, Musa alleged that the abductors were using the victims as bargaining chips to secure the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody.
He further claimed that the kidnappers had threatened to kill the hostages if security forces launched a rescue operation.
On allegations that Nigerian soldiers are poorly fed, Musa dismissed the claims as false and misleading, insisting that troops receive adequate meals while on duty.
He alleged that a military officer identified as Justice Crack deliberately removed portions of food before recording a viral video to create the impression that soldiers were receiving inadequate rations.
Despite the recent improvements in welfare, Musa stressed that increased funding remains essential to strengthen military operations, improve logistics and equipment, and enhance Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
