Senate moves to increase pay for soldiers and security agencies
The Nigerian Senate has initiated a formal push to increase salaries and improve conditions of service for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other key security agencies.
The motion, introduced by Ali Ndume (Borno South), calls for what he described as an “urgent and substantial upward review” of minimum wages and welfare provisions for junior military personnel earning between ₦50,000 and ₦60,000 per month—figures he said are “grossly inadequate” given the nation’s inflation and the high-risk roles served by troops.
Senator Ndume referenced Section 217(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the armed forces to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and assist civil authorities. He argued that the remuneration structure has not kept pace with those duties. He also compared the pay in Nigeria to other countries: in Ghana, a private soldier reportedly earns the equivalent of about ₦180,000 monthly; in South Africa about ₦250,000; in Egypt between ₦230,000 and ₦280,000; and in Kenya around ₦200,000. By contrast, Nigeria’s figures are substantially lower.
If adopted, the motion requests that the federal government—via the Ministries of Defence, Finance, Commerce, the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and other relevant bodies—review and adjust the salary structure to reflect current economic realities. It further tasks the Senate committees on Defence, Army, Navy and Air Force to set benchmark remuneration aligned with international best practices and mandate periodic review every three years.
Observers say the move could boost morale, reduce attrition, and strengthen the operational effectiveness of security personnel who are engaged in multiple theatres across Nigeria. However, implementation will depend on budgetary availability and alignment between the National Assembly, executive branch, and relevant commissions.
