Soldiers to Get Salary Boost Soon as Tinubu Prepares Announcement – Defence Minister
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd) has said that President Bola Tinubu will soon make a new salary increase to personnel of the armed forces, as part of the federal government’s plan to improve troops welfare.
Musa was reported to have made the disclosure at a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop for widows and wives of service personnel in Lungi Barracks, Abuja.
He said the federal government is committed to making sure military personnel are adequately compensated for the sacrifices they make to protect the nation.
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 the chief of defence staff, soldiers were earning ₦49,000. “Two years ago, I advocated for ₦100,000 and that was achieved.
“But we are trying 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 compensated. I have no doubt that very soon Mr. President will announce another rise 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).
The programme, he said, 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.
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He said that, as members of the armed forces continued to face complex security challenges and long periods away from their families, the government recognised the vital role played by their spouses and dependants in maintaining their morale and effectiveness.
“Our personnel face complex security challenges daily in the course of defending the sovereignty of Nigeria and protecting the lives and property of our citizens.
“Many operate in challenging operational environments, away from their families for long periods and facing significant risks. Their courage and sacrifice are rightly celebrated, but we must also give due recognition to the invaluable role played by the families firmly behind them
“To the spouses gathered here today, your resilience, patience and steadfast support give your loved ones the confidence to stay 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 stated.
“A strong military is built not only on capable personnel and modern equipment, but also on stable and economically secure families”, he said.
He added: “When military families are economically secure, they are better able to withstand the unique demands of military life. This allows service personnel the confidence that their loved ones are well supported and they can focus 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.”
Musa explained that the entrepreneurship programme was meant to equip participants with practical business and enterprise management skills, which would enable them establish sustainable businesses, generate income and contribute to national economic development.
