President Tinubu

Author: Gist Correspondent

President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces as part of efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen the country's security architecture.

The new pay package, which will take 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 structure, the highest percentage increases will go to the most junior personnel. 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 pay rise, while soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.

The new salary structure will increase the Armed Forces' annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing an additional ₦264 billion.

President Tinubu said the pay review was in recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to prioritising troop welfare and modernising the Armed Forces through the provision of modern weapons, equipment and technological tools.

According to the President, national security remains the foundation for economic growth and national development, stressing that the government would continue to mobilise all military and law enforcement assets to safeguard lives and property.

Tinubu urged members of the Armed Forces to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation's appreciation for their dedication and service, expressing confidence that the country's security forces would overcome those threatening Nigeria's peace and stability.