President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
This is in a move to improve the welfare of troops engaged in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the new salary package, which will benefit about 250,000 military personnel, will take effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the approved structure, 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 those from private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary boost.
The Federal Government said the review would raise the annual salary bill for Armed Forces personnel from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
According to the President, the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel who continue to risk their lives in protecting the country.
“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 statement said.
He assured that his administration would continue to prioritise troop welfare while strengthening the Armed Forces with modern weapons and technological equipment needed to tackle evolving security challenges.
According to the statement, President Tinubu is of the view that national development cannot be achieved without adequate security, stressing that the government remains committed to deploying all available military and law enforcement resources to eliminate threats to lives and property.
He also urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their dedication 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.
