President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase ranging from 30 per cent to 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The new pay structure, which is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel, will take effect from September 1, 2026, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Under the approved arrangement, 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 get a 50 per cent increase, while junior personnel from private to staff sergeant will benefit from an 80 per cent increase.
The adjustment is expected to increase the annual salary cost of Armed Forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion.
President Tinubu said the decision was part of his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel who are involved in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges 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,” Tinubu said.
The President added that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise troop welfare while strengthening the Armed Forces through the provision of modern weapons and technological equipment.
“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 members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as a sign of appreciation for their sacrifices and dedication to national service.
The announcement comes as Nigerian troops continue operations against security threats, including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across different parts of the country.
