I never said soldiers should reject Tinubu’s salary hike – Peter Obi

Nigerian Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has refuted claims that he advocated for Nigerian soldiers to reject salary hikes approved by President Bola Tinubu. Obi dismissed the report as false, urging Nigerians to disregard it. The President had approved salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 percent for armed forces personnel, effective September 1, 2026.

This move is expected to raise the armed forces' annual salary bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, benefiting around 250,000 personnel, according to President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Obi expressed his deep respect for the security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who serve and protect the nation under challenging circumstances. He emphasized that his concern was the welfare and safety of security personnel, stating he had consistently advocated for adequate equipment, motivation, and protection for these personnel.

In a recent incident, soldiers were killed by insurgents due to a delayed rescue effort, which prompted Obi to question the protection provided to troops. He reiterated that if elected, the well-being, resources, safety, and honor of the soldiers would be a paramount priority for his administration. Obi pledged that under his leadership, scenarios where servicemen and women are left unprotected in dangerous situations would be eradicated.

He appealed to the Nigerian populace to dismiss the misleading report and maintain confidence in his commitment to a secure and prosperous Nigeria.