President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in a move aimed at boosting troop welfare and strengthening the country’s security architecture.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, was announced on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Under the approved package, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase. Officers from Colonel to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increment, while personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent pay rise.
The salary review will increase the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
President Tinubu has consistently commended members of the armed forces for their courage and sacrifices in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.
Explaining the rationale behind the salary adjustment, the President said troop welfare remains a key priority of his administration.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
