Nigerian Soldiers' Minimum Salary Increased to ₦100,000 as Defence Minister Christopher Musa Calls for Death Penalty for Kidnappers

Nigerian Soldiers' Minimum Salary Increased to ₦100,000 as Defence Minister Christopher Musa Calls for Death Penalty for Kidnappers

Description: Defence Minister Christopher Musa says Nigerian soldiers now earn a minimum of ₦100,000 monthly, admits the defence budget is inadequate, and calls for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers. Follow the latest security updates from Nigeria.

Abuja, Nigeria — Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has announced that the Federal Government has increased the minimum monthly salary of Nigerian soldiers from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000, describing the move as part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare and morale of members of the Armed Forces.

Musa made the disclosure during an interview with News Central on Wednesday ahead of the NC Exclusive programme scheduled to air on Friday.

Nigerian Soldiers' Salary Raised to ₦100,000

According to the Defence Minister, the salary increase is one of several measures introduced by the Federal Government to strengthen the military and reward personnel for their sacrifices in protecting the nation.

«"When they started, a soldier was collecting ₦49,000 monthly. We tried so hard; now he's collecting ₦100,000," Musa said.»

Despite the salary review, the minister admitted that Nigeria's defence budget is still insufficient to meet the country's growing security challenges.

«"It's not enough," he said when asked whether the current defence budget adequately supports military operations.»

Christopher Musa Calls for Death Penalty for Kidnappers

Reacting to the rising wave of kidnappings across Nigeria, Musa advocated stricter punishment for convicted kidnappers, including the death penalty.

According to him, stronger laws would discourage criminal activities and help restore public confidence in the country's justice system.

«"There must be deterrence. The laws are soft, and that's why people take advantage. If they know once you commit an offence, there must be punishment," he stated.»

Oyo Schoolchildren Kidnapping: Minister Reveals Alleged Motive

Speaking on the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, the Defence Minister described the incident as heartbreaking.

He alleged that the kidnappers were attempting to force the military to release some of their detained commanders by using the children as bargaining tools.

According to Musa, intelligence reports indicate that the abductors also threatened to kill the children if security forces intensified rescue operations.

«"They are looking for leverage because we have some of their commanders with us. They believe taking these children hostage will make us release their commanders," he said.»

Defence Minister Dismisses Claims of Poor Feeding in the Military

Musa also rejected allegations that Nigerian soldiers are poorly fed.

Responding to claims made by a military officer identified as Justice Crack, the minister alleged that the officer deliberately removed food items from a meal before recording a video to create a misleading impression.

According to him, the meals served to soldiers contained meat and other food items, contrary to the allegations circulating online.

Key Takeaways

- Nigerian soldiers now earn a minimum monthly salary of ₦100,000, up from ₦49,000.

- The Defence Minister says Nigeria's defence budget remains inadequate.

- Christopher Musa supports the death penalty for convicted kidnappers.

- Kidnappers in the Oyo schoolchildren case allegedly sought the release of detained commanders.

- The minister dismissed claims that Nigerian soldiers receive poor-quality meals.

What Do You Think?

Will increasing soldiers' salaries improve morale and strengthen Nigeria's fight against insecurity? Do you support the call for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers?

Share your opinion in the comments below. If you found this report informative, please like, share, and follow for more breaking news, politics, security updates, and exclusive stories from across Nigeria.