New salary increase looms for Nigerian troops

The Federal Government is preparing another upward review of salaries for members of the Armed Forces, with President Bola Tinubu expected to make the announcement soon, according to the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa ( rtd).

Speaking on Monday at a financial empowerment and entrepreneurship workshop for widows and spouses of service personnel at Lungi Barracks in Abuja, the minister said improving the welfare of troops remained a key priority for the administration.

He noted that the government recognised the sacrifices made by soldiers in protecting the country and was determined to ensure they received better remuneration.

“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.

“When I was chief of defence staff, soldiers were receiving N49,000. About two years ago, I pushed for an increase to N100,000, and that was achieved.

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

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).

Badaru said the initiative was aimed at improving the financial stability of military families, particularly widows and wives of non-commissioned officers deployed in various operational areas across the country.

He observed that while security personnel often spend long periods away from home tackling security threats, their families provide vital support that enables them to remain focused on their duties.

“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.

“Many serve in difficult operational environments, separated from their families for extended periods and exposed to considerable risks. While their courage and sacrifice are rightly celebrated, we must equally recognise the invaluable role played by the families who stand firmly behind them.

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

“To our widows whose husbands served Nigeria with honour and distinction, your strength and perseverance in the face of loss remain an enduring source of inspiration,’’ the minister said.

He stressed that the effectiveness of the armed forces depended not only on well-trained personnel and modern equipment but also on the welfare and economic security of their families.

“When military families are economically secure, they are better positioned to withstand the unique demands of military life. This gives service personnel the confidence that their loved ones are well supported, allowing them to concentrate fully on their operational responsibilities.

“Strengthening the economic resilience of military families is, therefore, an important investment in the effectiveness of our Armed Forces and the security of our nation.’’

According to the minister, the entrepreneurship training is intended to provide participants with practical business and enterprise management skills, enabling them to establish sustainable businesses, earn income and contribute to the country’s economic growth