Defence Minister Reveals Tinubu Will Soon Increase Soldiers’ Salaries

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd) has said that President Bola Tinubu will soon make a new salary increase for personnel of the armed forces, as part of the federal government’s plan to improve troops welfare.

Musa was said to have made the revelation at a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop for widows and wives of service personnel in Lungi Barracks, Abuja.

The federal government is committed to ensuring military personnel are properly compensated for their sacrifices to protect the nation, he said.

I want to state here that a few weeks ago, I mentioned that soldiers are now getting ₦100,000 and I know that generated both positive and negative reactions.

“When I was chief of defence staff, soldiers were getting ₦49,000. Two years ago I asked for ₦100,000 and that was attained.

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‘But we are trying to increase it again. We know our President is a listening father who knows the sacrifices our troops are making and is committed to making sure they are well compensated. I am sure, Mr. President, that before long you will be announcing another increase in wages 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 collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

He said the programme was a manifestation of the federal government’s commitment to enhancing the economic well-being of military families, especially widows and spouses of non-commissioned officers serving in various operational theatres across the country.

As members of the armed forces continued to face complex security challenges and long periods away from their families, he said the government recognised the vital role played by their spouses and dependants in maintaining their morale and effectiveness.

“Our personnel encounter complex security challenges daily while defending the sovereignty of Nigeria and protecting the lives and property of our citizens.

“Many work in challenging operational environments, away from their families for long periods and under significant risk. Their courage and sacrifice are rightly celebrated, but the families firmly behind them also played an invaluable role that must be duly recognized

“To the spouses present here today, your strength, patience and unwavering support provide your loved ones the confidence to remain focused on their tasks.

“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 stated.

He said that a strong military was built not only on capable personnel and modern equipment but also on stable and economically secure families.

He added: “When military families are economically secure, they are more resilient to the unique challenges of military life. This gives service personnel the confidence their loved ones are well supported and they can fully focus on their operational responsibilities.

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

Musa said the entrepreneurship programme was aimed at equipping participants with practical business and enterprise management skills, which would enable them establish sustainable businesses, generate income and contribute to national economic development.