BREAKING: Tinubu Approves Salary Increase of 30% to 80% for Armed Forces Personnel

President Bola Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay rises ranging from 30 to 80 per cent across all ranks in a move aimed at strengthening troop welfare and boosting morale.

The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel nationwide.

Under the approved package, 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 the largest adjustment of 80 per cent has been approved for personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant.

The new wage structure will raise the annual personnel cost of the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.

President Tinubu said the salary review recognises the courage, sacrifice and dedication of members of the Armed Forces who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

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According to the President, the men and women safeguarding the nation deserve greater support and appreciation for their service.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the military through improved welfare, advanced weaponry and cutting-edge technology to enhance operational effectiveness.

Tinubu stressed that national security remains central to Nigeria’s development, pledging continued investment in military and law enforcement capabilities to protect lives and property.

The President urged military personnel to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their patriotism and commitment, expressing confidence that the nation’s security forces would ultimately overcome those seeking to undermine Nigeria’s peace and stability.