By Lizzy Chirkpi
President Bola Tinubu has approved a comprehensive salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, raising the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for military personnel from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
Under the approved package, senior officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase, officers from Colonel to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent raise, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increment of 80 per cent.
Announcing the approval in a statement on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the review reflects the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and boosting their morale amid ongoing security operations across the country.
According to the Presidency, the salary adjustment is aimed at rewarding the sacrifices of members of the armed forces who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
“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,” President Tinubu said.
The President assured military personnel that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare while investing in the modernisation of the armed forces through the acquisition of advanced weapons and technology to strengthen operational effectiveness.
“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,” he stated.
Describing security as the foundation of national development, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to deploy all available military and law enforcement assets to tackle insecurity and protect lives and property across the country.
“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 said.
He urged officers and soldiers to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s appreciation for their patriotism, sacrifice and dedication to national 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,” Tinubu added.
The salary review is one of the most significant adjustments to military pay in recent years and comes as the Armed Forces continue operations against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime across different parts of the country.
The Tinubu administration has repeatedly pledged to improve the welfare of security personnel through better remuneration, enhanced insurance coverage, improved accommodation, modern equipment and increased investment in defence capabilities as part of broader efforts to strengthen national security.