Malik Yahya/
ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, raising pay by between 30 and 80 per cent in what is being described as one of the most significant welfare packages for military personnel in recent years.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 officers and soldiers across the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
Under the approved package, officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Officers from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent, reflecting the administration’s focus on improving the welfare of frontline troops.
The salary review will raise the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing an additional ₦264 billion commitment to military personnel.
Announcing the approval in a statement on Tuesday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the salary increase underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to recognising the sacrifices of members of the armed forces who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
President Tinubu said the welfare of military personnel remains a priority of his administration, stressing that those who risk their lives to safeguard Nigeria deserve adequate support and appreciation.
“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,” the President said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to modernise the armed forces by providing improved weapons, equipment and technological tools to enhance operational effectiveness.
According to the President, no nation can attain meaningful development without a secure environment, adding that the government remains committed to deploying all military and law enforcement assets to defeat criminal elements threatening national stability.
Tinubu urged members of the armed forces to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation’s gratitude for their patriotism and sacrifices.
“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 latest salary review comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen national security through enhanced troop welfare, improved operational capacity and sustained investments in the country’s defence architecture.
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