By Abubakar Yunusa
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has said the a good military pay for troops remains critical to Nigeria’s national stability and security.
Matawalle stated that a motivated, well-paid and professional military is indispensable in tackling the country’s growing security challenges.
Media Assistant to the Minister, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, disclosed this while discussing on the proposed military pay reform 2026, which he described as both timely and commendable.
Dan-Wudil noted that the minister strongly believes that improving the welfare of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria is not merely a financial decision but a strategic investment in the country’s security architecture.
He said soldiers continue to operate under difficult and risky conditions in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other forms of insecurity across the country.
According to him, better remuneration for military will significantly boost morale, discipline and operational readiness among troops.
“The welfare of soldiers directly influences morale, discipline, operational readiness and institutional loyalty,” Dan-Wudil said.
“The defence of a nation rests on the shoulders of those who wear its uniform. Their dedication, courage and sacrifices cannot be overstated. The proposed military pay reform stands as a bold and commendable step toward honouring that sacrifice.”
He explained that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had initiated a proposed reform of the military salary structure aimed at improving service conditions for personnel of the Armed Forces.
Dan-Wudil said the reform, once approved and implemented, would significantly raise salaries across various ranks.
He noted that under the proposed structure, the monthly salary of a Private could rise to about ₦300,000, compared to the previous entry-level pay of roughly ₦130,000.
Other proposed adjustments include ₦350,000 for a Lance Corporal, ₦400,000 for a Corporal, ₦460,000 for a Sergeant and ₦510,000 for a Staff Sergeant.
Senior officers are also expected to benefit, with a Brigadier General projected to earn about ₦1.5m monthly, while a Major General and Lieutenant General could receive ₦2.5m and ₦3.6m respectively.
Dan-Wudil said the proposed reform would make military service more attractive to young Nigerians and also address the growing trend of experienced officers leaving the service for opportunities in the private sector.
According to him, sectors such as oil and gas, maritime, aviation and private security often attract skilled military personnel due to better financial incentives.
He stressed that retaining experienced officers and technical personnel is essential for maintaining operational efficiency within the armed forces.
Dan-Wudil added that a better military pay for troops would not only improve recruitment and retention but also reinforce national unity and cohesion within the military.
He maintained that those who defend Nigeria deserve improved welfare and recognition for their sacrifices.
“Those who defend Nigeria deserve nothing less,” he added.
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