Nigeria raises soldiers' pay by up to 80 per cent

ABUJA – The Nigerian government has announced pay rises of between 30 and 80 per cent for its soldiers in a bid to lift the morale of security forces confronting a prolonged security crisis in the country.

The increase, covering about 250,000 personnel, comes as many Nigerians struggle with a rising cost of living brought on by reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu to revive the economy and reassure international investors, but which have weighed heavily on citizens.

Two military officers said the lowest-paid soldiers, ordinary recruits, receive a basic salary of 100,000 naira (RM300) a month.

In a statement, Tinubu's media adviser Bayo Onanuga said officers ranked above colonel would receive a 30 per cent increase.

"Those from colonel to warrant officer will receive a 50 per cent increase, while ordinary recruits up to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase," he said.

Security threats on several fronts

Nigeria is battling a militant insurgency of more than 17 years in the northeast, alongside conflict between farmers and herders in the north-central region.

Violent armed separatist unrest continues in the southeast, while widespread kidnapping for ransom plagues the northwest.

Tinubu said the pay rise was a "sign of our deep appreciation" for the military.

"The men and women who help keep us safe at home must be supported and appreciated throughout their service for our country," he said. – AFP