Tinubu to Announce Fresh Pay Raise for Soldiers Soon — Minister

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has announced that President Bola Tinubu will soon approve another salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as part of ongoing efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen military operations.

Musa made the disclosure on Monday during a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop organised for widows and wives of military personnel in Abuja.

According to the minister, the planned pay review follows an earlier increase that raised soldiers’ monthly salary from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000.

“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 said.

He explained that the previous salary adjustment was initiated during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff about two years ago and was successfully implemented.

Musa noted that the Federal Government was pursuing another upward review, expressing confidence that Tinubu would soon make the official announcement.

“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.

The minister praised members of the Armed Forces for their dedication in confronting security challenges across the country, often under difficult conditions and away from their families for extended periods.

He stressed that the sacrifices of military personnel should also draw attention to the resilience and commitment of their spouses and families.

Addressing the widows and wives at the event, Musa described their support as critical to the effectiveness of military operations.

“To the spouses gathered here today, your resilience, patience and steadfast support give your loved ones the confidence to remain focused on their responsibilities,” he said.

He also paid tribute to widows of fallen military personnel, describing their courage and perseverance as a source of inspiration.

According to him, improving the economic well-being of military families remains an important part of national security because financially stable families enable serving personnel to concentrate fully on their operational duties.

Musa added that strengthening the welfare of military households would enhance the effectiveness of the Armed Forces while contributing to the country’s overall security and stability.