The Federal Government has increased the minimum monthly salary of Nigerian soldiers from ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 as part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has disclosed.

Musa made the announcement during a pre-broadcast interview with News Central, stating that the salary review followed sustained efforts by the military leadership to enhance the welfare and morale of troops, particularly those engaged in frontline operations.

"When they started, a soldier was collecting ₦50,000 monthly. We tried so hard, now he's collecting ₦100,000," the CDS said.

The salary adjustment comes as the Armed Forces continue to confront security challenges across the country, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

Despite the salary increase, General Musa acknowledged that the country's current defence budget remains insufficient to fully address Nigeria's security challenges.

Responding to a question on whether existing funding meets the operational needs of the military, he said, "It's not enough."

His remarks come amid growing calls for increased investment in defence, with stakeholders arguing that improved funding is essential to strengthen military operations, procure modern equipment, and enhance personnel welfare.

The CDS also dismissed allegations circulating on social media suggesting that Nigerian soldiers are poorly fed.

Reacting to a viral video that purportedly showed inadequate meals served to troops, Musa described the footage as misleading, alleging that the content had been deliberately manipulated to create a false impression.

"The soldier's food was okay," he said, adding that some items were intentionally removed from the plate before the video was recorded.

General Musa also hinted at plans for a more comprehensive review of military salaries.

According to him, proposals are being considered to further improve the remuneration of personnel under the Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure (CONAFSS), including a possible increase in the entry-level salary to ₦300,000 monthly.

However, the proposed salary structure has not yet been officially approved or implemented by the Federal Government.

The latest increase to ₦100,000 is expected to provide some relief for soldiers amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living, although analysts and stakeholders continue to advocate broader reforms to improve the welfare of military personnel.