President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent across different ranks.
The salary adjustment, 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.
Onanuga explained that the salary review was designed to favour lower-ranking personnel, with the highest percentage increases allocated to the most junior officers and soldiers.
Under the revised structure, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General, including Colonels and above, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while those serving from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent pay rise.
The new wage package will increase the Armed Forces’ annual salary expenditure from N660 billion to N924 billion, representing an additional N264 billion.
President Tinubu said the decision reflects the Federal Government’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, kidnapping, banditry 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,” he said.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving troop welfare while strengthening the military through modern equipment and technology.
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“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 said.
Tinubu said the salary review aligns with his administration’s commitment to national security, stressing that safety remains essential to the country’s development.
“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.
He urged military personnel to view the gesture as a demonstration of the government’s gratitude for their 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,” the President said.