By ZR Reporter
The Nigerian Government has doubled the minimum monthly salary for its soldiers, raising it from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000 in a move aimed at improving the welfare of military personnel serving across the country.
Based on current exchange rates, the previous minimum salary of ₦49,000 is worth about K641 in Zambian Kwacha, while the revised salary of ₦100,000 is equivalent to approximately K1,309.
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), said the adjustment reflects the government’s determination to improve the living conditions of members of the armed forces, even as the country continues to face growing security demands.
The minister also pushed back against claims circulating on social media that soldiers are receiving inadequate meals.
Responding to a viral video that appeared to show poorly fed troops, General Musa said the footage was misleading and had been deliberately staged to create the impression that soldiers were not being properly catered for.
He maintained that military personnel continue to receive adequate food and welfare support while carrying out their duties.
At the same time, the Defence Minister admitted that the country’s defence budget is still not sufficient to meet all operational needs. He said the military requires additional funding as it continues to battle insurgents, armed bandits and other security threats affecting different parts of Nigeria.
General Musa made the remarks during a recent interview in which he outlined the government’s efforts to strengthen both the welfare of military personnel and the operational readiness of the armed forces.
© Zambia Reports | July 2026