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Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has denied a report that he called on Nigerian soldiers to refuse salary increments until after the 2027 elections, describing the assertion as “entirely untrue.”
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election said the report falsely attributed the statement to him.
“This assertion is entirely untrue,” Obi said.
Tinubu approved salary increases of up to 80 percent
President Bola Tinubu had approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 percent for personnel of the armed forces, effective September 1, 2026, according to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The pay package, expected to benefit about 250,000 personnel, will raise the annual salary bill for the armed forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
Under the approved structure, personnel from private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 percent increase, while warrant officers to colonels will receive a 50 percent increase. Senior officers above the rank of colonel, including generals, will receive a 30 percent increase.
The announcement followed an earlier move by the government in July 2026 to raise the minimum monthly salary of soldiers from ₦49,000 to ₦100,000.
“When they started, a soldier was collecting ₦49,000 monthly. We tried so hard, now he’s collecting ₦100,000,” Defence Minister Christopher Musa told News Central TV.
Obi says he respects security forces
Obi said his respect for Nigeria’s security forces, particularly army personnel who serve and protect the nation under challenging conditions, was unwavering.
“I have consistently advocated for the adequate provision of equipment, motivation, and protection for our security personnel,” he said.
He said his concern was palpable when soldiers were lost to insurgents due to a delayed rescue effort, prompting him to question how those defending the nation could be left vulnerable in their time of need.
Obi said that if elected president, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of soldiers would be a paramount priority.
“Those who ensure Nigeria’s security must never be relegated to a secondary concern,” he said.
“Our soldiers are deserving of our utmost respect, unwavering support, and a government that will unequivocally stand by them.”
He said under his leadership, scenarios where servicemen and women were left unprotected in the face of peril would “be eradicated.”
Obi urged the public to dismiss the report, saying he remained committed to articulating a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
