President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, with about 250,000 personnel expected to benefit from the new pay package.
According to a State House statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the new salary structure will take effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the 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 enjoy a 50 per cent increase in their salaries.
Soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment, with an 80 per cent salary increase.
The salary review will raise the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting the Federal Government’s increased investment in military welfare.
President Tinubu said the salary increase recognises the courage and sacrifices of military personnel battling banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.
He stated that the government remains committed to improving troop welfare and modernising the Armed Forces by providing advanced weapons and technological equipment needed to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
The President also stressed that national security remains central to his administration’s agenda, pledging continued support for the military and other law enforcement agencies to eliminate security threats and safeguard lives and property.
Tinubu urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as a mark of the nation’s appreciation for their service, expressing confidence that Nigeria would overcome those seeking to undermine its peace and stability.
