President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for personnel of Nigeria’s armed forces.
The new pay structure will benefit about 250,000 military personnel and will take effect from September 1, 2026.
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 enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase.
The revised salary structure will raise the annual wage bill for the country’s armed forces from N660bn to N924bn.
President Tinubu said the salary review reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in tackling banditry, kidnapping and terrorism 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.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare and modernising the armed forces through the provision of weapons and technological equipment needed to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President urged members of the armed forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and dedication to the country.
“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 enemy’s intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” he added.
