Breaking: Tinubu approves up to 80% salary increase for Armed Forces personnel

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, raising pay by between 30 and 80 per cent in what is one of the most significant welfare packages for military personnel in recent years.

The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 officers and men across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Under the approved package, senior officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Officers from the rank of Colonel to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant, the category comprising most junior enlisted personnel, will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.

The pay review will raise the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, underscoring the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.

Announcing the approval, the Presidency said the salary increase reflects President Tinubu’s recognition of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats 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.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to strengthen troop welfare alongside ongoing efforts to modernise the Armed Forces through the acquisition of advanced weapons systems and cutting-edge technology.

According to him, national security remains the foundation for economic growth and sustainable development.

“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.

The President stressed that no nation could attain greatness without a secure environment, pledging to continue deploying all available military and law enforcement resources to combat insecurity and safeguard lives and property nationwide.

He also urged military personnel to see the salary review as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their patriotism, courage and dedication to national 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,” Tinubu said.

The salary increase comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to boost troop morale and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces in the ongoing fight against insecurity across Nigeria.