Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with personnel set to receive pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent beginning September 1, 2026.

The salary adjustment, announced by the Presidency on Tuesday, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across various ranks and formations.

Under the new package, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent increase in their salaries. Officers from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer are to benefit from a 50 per cent salary adjustment, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent.

The new wage structure will raise the Federal Government’s annual salary expenditure on the armed forces from about ₦660 billion to approximately ₦924 billion, representing one of the largest military welfare packages approved in recent years.

President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.

According to the President, members of the armed forces deserve better support considering the sacrifices they make in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting citizens.

“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,” Tinubu said.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the military through increased investment in weapons, equipment and advanced technology needed to strengthen national security operations.

“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 added.

Tinubu maintained that security remains central to national development, stressing that no country can achieve sustainable progress without guaranteeing the safety of lives and property.

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue deploying military and other law enforcement resources to combat criminal activities and restore peace across the country.

The President also urged military personnel to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and dedication.

“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,” he said.

The salary review comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen troop morale and enhance operational effectiveness as security agencies intensify operations against insurgents, bandits and other criminal groups across Nigeria.

The new salary structure is expected to take effect nationwide from September 1, 2026.