“We Can’t Go On Like This” — Serving Soldiers Break Silence, Send Urgent Message To Tinubu Over…

Serving military personnel have appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to urgently implement the new salary structure announced for members of the Armed Forces, warning that continued delays could further weaken morale and worsen personnel shortages within the military.

The officers, who spoke anonymously due to military regulations, said the government must fulfil its promise if it is committed to improving the welfare of troops and strengthening national security.

According to one of the officers, many soldiers continue to endure harsh living conditions despite the enormous risks they face while defending the country.

He noted that members of the Armed Forces put their lives on the line daily to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty and citizens, yet their current salaries do not adequately reflect the sacrifices and dangers associated with military service.

The officer further argued that the widening gap between the demands of military duty and the remuneration received by personnel has contributed to declining morale and a growing number of soldiers abandoning their posts without authorization.

Another serving officer expressed concern that poor welfare and inadequate salaries are discouraging young Nigerians from joining the military, making recruitment increasingly difficult.

According to the source, military service is no longer viewed as financially attractive, raising fears that the Armed Forces may struggle to attract and retain qualified personnel needed to tackle the country’s security challenges.

The officers stressed that a motivated and adequately compensated military remains critical to Nigeria’s security and urged the Federal Government to implement the promised salary review without further delay.

In an emotional appeal, one soldier directly called on President Tinubu to turn the salary promise into reality, revealing that many military families are struggling to cope with the rising cost of living.

The officer said troops were encouraged when the President announced plans for a salary increase during an Iftar gathering, but many are still waiting for the promise to be fulfilled.

“Things are quite expensive, and our current salaries are no longer enough,” the soldier said, adding that he urgently needs the increment to cater for his children and dependants.