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

President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for about 250,000 military personnel.

The revised salary package, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, is aimed at improving troop welfare and boosting morale as security forces continue operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

Under the new structure, senior officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase. Personnel from Colonel to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent adjustment, while junior ranks, including Privates, Lance Corporals, Corporals, Sergeants and Staff Sergeants, will receive an 80 per cent increase.

The salary review will raise the Federal Government's annual wage bill for military personnel from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing an additional investment of ₦264 billion in the welfare of the Armed Forces.

President Tinubu said the increase reflects his administration's commitment to recognising the sacrifices of military personnel and strengthening the country's security architecture. He assured troops of continued support through improved welfare, better equipment and modern technology to enhance their operational effectiveness.

The announcement follows earlier assurances by the Minister of Defence that the government was working to further improve the remuneration of military personnel. He had highlighted previous efforts that increased the minimum salary of soldiers and expressed confidence that additional improvements would soon be introduced.

Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Defence has welcomed the new salary package, describing it as a significant step toward improving troop morale. Committee Chairman Ahmad Lawan said the decision demonstrates the government's commitment to the welfare of military personnel and expressed optimism that the improved remuneration would strengthen the Armed Forces' capacity to tackle the country's security challenges.

Lawan also urged the military to match the government's investment with greater professionalism, enhanced cooperation among the services and renewed determination in the fight against insecurity, while pledging continued legislative support for the nation's security sector.

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