President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, with about 250,000 personnel expected to benefit from the new pay package.
The announcement was made in a statement on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, the new salary structure will take effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the approved arrangement, officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary boost.
Onanuga said the new package would raise the annual salary bill for the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
He said the approval reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to improving troop welfare and recognising the sacrifices of military personnel engaged in combating banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.
Quoting the President, Onanuga said: “The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation.”
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the military through improved welfare and enhanced operational capabilities.
“Our administration will continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the armed forces by providing the weapons and technological tools needed to discharge their duties,” the President said.
He added that security remains central to national development.
“Our administration believes that no nation can achieve greatness without security. We therefore remain resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and protect the lives and property of all Nigerians,” Tinubu stated.
The President urged military personnel to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service.
“I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” he said.
The salary review is expected to significantly improve the welfare of military personnel while supporting ongoing efforts to enhance national security.
