Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel
President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with about 250,000 officers and soldiers expected to benefit from the new pay package.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, provides a 30 per cent increase for officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals.
Under the approved package, personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will receive a 50 per cent salary increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will enjoy an 80 per cent increase.
The approval will raise the annual salary bill for members of the armed forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
Announcing the development in a statement on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the salary review reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.
President Tinubu commended the courage, resilience and sacrifices of members of the armed forces in confronting banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.
He assured that his administration would continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the military by providing the weapons and technological tools needed to effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
According to the President, a secure nation remains the foundation for national development, stressing that the government would continue to mobilise military and other law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians.
Tinubu urged officers and soldiers to accept the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for their service and dedication, expressing confidence that the armed forces would ultimately overcome those seeking to undermine Nigeria’s peace and stability.
