Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, has renewed his call for improved welfare and working conditions for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, saying greater support is essential to strengthening the country’s fight against insecurity.
Speaking during an interview on Trust TV on June 26, 2026, Ndume said soldiers operating in conflict zones continue to make enormous sacrifices and deserve better remuneration, equipment and welfare.
“A recruit from the Depot is being paid ₦50,000 per month and you expect him to go to the desert, to Sambisa and fight and risk everything. As I’m speaking to you now, a general is still missing. Brigadier General Damboa. It is the coming of this government that he doubled their salary; now they are collecting ₦100,000 per month as their salary,” Ndume said.
While acknowledging the salary increase introduced by the current administration, the senator argued that broader reforms remain necessary. He said military personnel require improved operational equipment, quality healthcare, enhanced welfare programmes and stronger support for their families to boost morale and improve the effectiveness of security operations against insurgency, banditry and other violent crimes.
