Nigerian Soldiers Struggle with Low Salaries and Diet Costs

Soldiers in Nigeria currently earn a monthly salary of N100,000, which is inadequate to afford a healthy diet that costs approximately N1,589 daily. This figure represents a 3.12% increase from the previous month and a 4.74% increase year-on-year.

The Ministry of Defence, led by Christoph Musa, recently disclosed that the salary was increased from N49,000 as part of a broader welfare reform aimed at improving troop morale. However, Musa admitted that Nigeria's defense budget remains insufficient, with the 2026 appropriation act allocating N3.16 trillion, equivalent to about $2.28 billion at an exchange rate of approximately N1,380 to the dollar.

The rising cost of living and food prices has placed additional pressure on military personnel, making it challenging for them to support their families. The report indicates that the average cost of maintaining a healthy diet has increased significantly, with soldiers only able to afford about 63 meals per month, which is roughly 21 days' worth of meals based on their salary.