Man in Military Attire Criticizes Nigerian Government Over Pay Disparity
- A Nigerian soldier has voiced deep frustration over the government’s unequal treatment of military personnel compared to athletes and politicians
- He criticised the lavish rewards given to Super Falcons players and the high salaries of senators, contrasting them with the meagre earnings and sacrifices of soldiers
- His emotional appeal has sparked renewed calls for reform in military compensation and greater recognition of frontline service
A Nigerian soldier has publicly condemned the government’s treatment of military personnel, raising concerns over the stark contrast between the earnings of soldiers and those of athletes and politicians.
His remarks, which have sparked widespread debate online, were directed at the president and extended to councillors across the country.
Source: Getty Images
Military pay vs falcons’ rewards
In a passionate statement, the soldier questioned the government’s priorities, citing the recent financial rewards given to the Super Falcons players. According to him, each player received ₦150 million and an apartment after participating in a month-long football tournament. He contrasted this with the dire financial conditions faced by soldiers, many of whom earn less than ₦100,000 monthly.
“Where did Nigerian soldiers get it wrong? Falcons players just played ball for one month, and the president gave them ₦150 million each with an apartment. Some soldiers are not earning up to ₦100k, some join the military this month and die the next month at the war front,” he lamented.
Senators’ salaries compared to Soldiers’ lifetime earnings
The soldier also criticised the monthly earnings of Nigerian senators, claiming that their salaries far exceed what a soldier could earn over a 35-year career. His comments have reignited discussions about the need for comprehensive reforms in military compensation and welfare.
“The money senators receive every month is more than what soldiers earn in 35 years of service,” he stated.
Call for government accountability and reform
The soldier’s message, described by many as a “strong cry for justice,” has been interpreted as a call for the government to reassess its compensation structure and prioritise the welfare of those risking their lives on the front lines. His appeal to the president and councillors underscores a growing frustration within the ranks of the Nigerian military.
The statement has since gone viral, prompting reactions from civil society groups, veterans, and concerned citizens who are urging the government to address the imbalance and ensure fair treatment for all public servants.
See the video below:
Nigerian Army ranks, symbols, and salaries
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Nigerian Army is one of the three services of the Nigerian Armed Forces, alongside the Navy and Air Force. Becoming an armed forces member is a dignifying goal for anyone who wants to serve their country.
If you want to know more about the Nigerian Army ranks, symbols, and their salaries, check out this article. Nigeria became independent in 1960 and renamed the Nigerian Military Force (NMF) the Royal Nigerian Army (RNA). The Nigerian Army ranks, uniforms, and instruments also changed in 1960. As a result, the army is part of the Nigerian Armed Forces (NAF).
Source: Legit.ng
