President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant increase in the salaries of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with personnel set to receive pay rises ranging from 30 to 80 per cent.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, about 250,000 military personnel are expected to benefit from the new salary structure, which will take effect on September 1, 2026.
Under the arrangement, officers from the rank of brigadier general to general will receive a 30 per cent increase in their salaries.
Personnel from the rank of colonel to warrant officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent raise.
The development is expected to increase the annual wage bill of the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
President Tinubu said the salary adjustment reflected the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel as they continue to combat 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,” the President said.
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He added that his administration would continue to strengthen the country’s security architecture by equipping the armed forces with modern weapons and advanced technology.
“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 stated.
Tinubu further stressed that national development depends on effective security measures and pledged to sustain efforts aimed at protecting lives and property across the country.
“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.
The President also urged members of the armed forces to view the gesture as an expression of appreciation for their service and sacrifices.
“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,” he added.