12/03/2025
For clarity, let me tell you the truth about a soldier’s pay,” the young Nigerian soldier began, breaking down what many never knew.
“When you first join the army, your starting salary is ₦104,000. After five years, you get a new rank and your pay rises slightly to ₦112,000. At the 10-year mark, you’re promoted to corporal, and the salary becomes ₦115,000. After 15 years of service, you earn ₦125,000, and by the time you’ve given 20 years of your life to the army, your salary finally reaches ₦150,000.
“This so-called ‘new structure’ only began this year. Before now, soldiers survived on ₦50,000 monthly.”
He went on to reveal that only a few allowances exist — including something called a “grumbling allowance,” which is ₦20,000. Whatever allowance you get is simply added to your salary as your total take-home pay.
“But remember,” he cautioned, “inside that ₦150,000, your mother will call, your wife will need things, your children will need school fees, friends will beg for help. You will buy data, transport yourself, feed yourself, and still try to save something. I’m telling you now so nobody will say you weren’t warned before joining.”
His heartfelt breakdown of the alleged army salary structure has ignited widespread outrage online, with many questioning how soldiers are expected to survive — let alone risk their lives — on such meagre pay.
