Senator Ali Ndume has called for improved welfare for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, arguing that the daily feeding allowance for troops deployed to conflict zones remains inadequate despite a recent increase.
Speaking during an interview on Trust TV on June 26, 2026, the Borno South senator said soldiers operating on the front line deserve better support given the risks they face in combating insurgency, banditry and other security threats.
“Their feeding allowance per day used to be ₦1,500. It’s this government that doubled it to ₦3,000. But let’s be honest, how much is ₦3,000 to feed somebody on the frontline?” Ndume said.
The former Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Army acknowledged the government’s decision to increase the allowance but argued that the amount does not reflect current economic realities or the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Ndume said troops serving in high-risk areas require improved feeding, better salaries and access to modern equipment, maintaining that stronger welfare packages would boost morale and enhance the military’s effectiveness in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
