The Nigerian Senate has announced plans to deliberate on a motion seeking a significant pay rise and improved working conditions for members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies. The debate is scheduled for Wednesday, October 22.
The motion, titled “Urgent Need to Increase the Minimum Wage and Improve Conditions of Service for Members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies,” was sponsored by Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South and former Chief Whip of the 10th Senate.
In his motion, Ndume described the current salaries and allowances of soldiers and security operatives as grossly inadequate, emphasizing that these individuals risk their lives daily under extremely challenging conditions to safeguard the nation.
He pointed out that the existing pay structure does not reflect the sacrifices of military and security personnel engaged in various national operations — from counterterrorism in the North-East to anti-banditry and oil theft missions in other regions.
Citing Section 217(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Ndume reminded lawmakers that the Armed Forces are constitutionally responsible for defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and assisting civil authorities in maintaining law and order when necessary.
The senator lamented that, despite soaring inflation and rising living costs, the average monthly salary of junior personnel — between ₦50,000 and ₦60,000 — is no longer sustainable. Many, he said, struggle to afford basic needs such as food, transportation, housing, and education for their families.
“Our troops are stretched thin across multiple fronts, yet their welfare has not kept pace with their sacrifices,” Ndume stated.
He warned that poor remuneration, delayed allowances, and inadequate welfare have led to low morale, desertions, and corruption in the security services. Comparing Nigeria with other African nations, he revealed that a private soldier earns the equivalent of about ₦180,000 monthly in Ghana, ₦200,000 in Kenya, ₦230,000–₦280,000 in Egypt, and ₦250,000 in South Africa — excluding operational allowances. Nigerian soldiers, however, earn less than a quarter of those amounts despite facing higher risks.
Ndume cautioned that such pay disparities weaken operational efficiency and public confidence in the nation’s security institutions. He stressed that better welfare would boost morale, discipline, and professionalism within the forces.
The motion also noted that in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and India, military pay is typically higher than the national minimum wage, reflecting the high risks and responsibilities of the job.
If passed, the motion will urge the Federal Government, through the Ministries of Defence, Finance, and Budget and National Planning, along with the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission, to implement a substantial upward review of the minimum wage and salary structure for security personnel in line with current economic realities.
It further directs the Senate Committees on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force to collaborate with relevant agencies to determine realistic and competitive pay standards aligned with international best practices.
Additionally, the motion tasks the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) and the National Assembly Appropriations Committee with making provisions for increased defence personnel costs in the 2026 national budget.
If approved, the proposal could establish a framework for regular wage reviews across the military and security sectors — a move expected to improve morale, professionalism, and overall national security.
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