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Borno North Senator, Ali Ndume, has urged the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, along with other service chiefs, to prioritize the improved welfare and remuneration of troops.
Ndume made this appeal shortly after President Bola Tinubu decorated the Service Chiefs with their new ranks on Thursday in Abuja.
The former Senate Chief Whip emphasized that enhancing the financial well-being of soldiers is essential for maintaining the fight against insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges facing the nation.
“The annual budget for the Armed Forces and other security agencies should be classified as a First Line Charge, and it should not be discretionary. They must be prioritized,” he stated.
While comparing Nigeria’s military pay structure with those of other African nations, the senator representing Borno North described the current remuneration as inadequate, highlighting significant disparities.
“In Ghana, the entry-level salary for a private soldier is approximately N180,000 per month; in South Africa, the basic pay for enlisted personnel begins at around N250,000 monthly.
“In Egypt, junior enlisted officers earn between N230,000 and N280,000 monthly, and in Kenya, a private earns about N200,000, excluding operational allowances.
“However, in Nigeria, the average private soldier earns considerably less despite facing higher deployment frequency and operational demands,” he lamented.
Ndume further called on the Tinubu administration to prioritize the Armed Forces’ budget by placing it on the First Line Charge, ensuring timely and non-discretionary funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the welfare of troops important?
Improving the welfare of troops is crucial for maintaining morale and operational effectiveness, especially in the face of ongoing security threats like insurgency and banditry.
What is the First Line Charge in military budgeting?
The First Line Charge refers to a budgetary allocation that is prioritized and guaranteed, ensuring that essential services like the Armed Forces receive their funding without delay or discretion.
How does Nigeria's military pay compare to other African countries?
Nigeria's military remuneration is significantly lower than that of several other African countries, where entry-level salaries for soldiers are much higher, despite Nigeria's increased operational demands.
