President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces in a move aimed at improving troop welfare and boosting morale in the ongoing fight against insecurity across the country.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Under the approved package, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase, while officers from Colonel to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase. Personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.
The salary review is expected to raise the annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing one of the most significant improvements in military remuneration in recent years.
President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to recognising the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces who continue to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across 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 President said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and operational capacity of the military, stressing that efforts to modernise the Armed Forces would continue alongside investments in personnel welfare.
“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.
The President described security as the foundation of national development, saying no country could achieve meaningful progress without guaranteeing the safety of its citizens.
“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,” he said.
Tinubu urged military personnel to see the salary increase as an expression of the government’s appreciation for their dedication and patriotism.
“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,” the President added.
The salary adjustment comes as the Armed Forces intensify operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups in different parts of the country, with the Federal Government reiterating its resolve to strengthen the military through improved welfare, enhanced operational capacity and sustained investment in modern military equipment.
