Military salary reform is critical to national stability – Minister Matawalle

Defense Minister Bello Matawalle said good military pay for troops remains critical to Nigeria’s stability and national security.

Matwalle said a motivated, well-paid and professional military was indispensable to address the country’s growing security challenges.

The minister’s media aide, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, revealed this while discussing the 2026 military pay reform proposal, which he described as timely and commendable.

Dan-Wudil noted that the minister firmly believes that improving the well-being of members of Nigeria’s armed forces is not simply a financial decision but a strategic investment in the country’s security architecture.

He said soldiers continue to operate in difficult and risky conditions in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other forms of insecurity across the country.

According to him, better remuneration of the military will significantly increase the morale, discipline and operational readiness of the troops.

“Soldier well-being directly influences morale, discipline, operational readiness and institutional loyalty,” Dan-Wudil said.

“The defense 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 represents a courageous and laudable step toward honoring that sacrifice.”

He explained that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has initiated a proposal to reform the military salary structure with the aim of improving the conditions of service of armed forces personnel.

Dan-Wudil said the reform, once approved and implemented, would significantly increase salaries at all levels.

He noted that under the proposed structure, a private individual’s monthly salary could rise to around ₦300,000, compared to the previous entry-level salary of around ₦130,000.

Other proposed adjustments include ₦350,000 for a corporal, ₦400,000 for a corporal, ₦460,000 for a sergeant and ₦510,000 for a sergeant major.

Senior officers are also expected to benefit, with a brigadier general expected to earn around ₦1.5 million a month, while a major general and lieutenant general could receive ₦2.5 million and ₦3.6 million respectively.

Dan-Wudil said the proposed reform would make military service more attractive to young Nigerians and would 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 qualified military personnel due to better financial incentives.

He stressed that the retention of experienced officers and technical personnel is essential to maintain the operational efficiency of the armed forces.

Dan-Wudil added that better military pay for troops would not only improve recruitment and retention, but also strengthen national unity and cohesion within the armed forces.

He argued that those who defend Nigeria deserve greater welfare and recognition for their sacrifices.

“Those who defend Nigeria deserve nothing less,” he added.