President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in what the Presidency described as a major boost to troop welfare and the country’s security efforts.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across all ranks, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier-general, major-general, lieutenant-general and general, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from colonel to warrant officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from private to staff sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.
The review will increase the Armed Forces’ annual salary bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, underscoring the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.
President Tinubu said the salary increase was in recognition of the courage and sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare while accelerating the modernisation of the Armed Forces through improved weapons systems and technological 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.”
Tinubu said security remained the foundation for national development, pledging the continued mobilisation of military and law enforcement assets to tackle insecurity.
“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.”
The President urged military personnel to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for their service and commitment.
“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.”
