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

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure that will increase the earnings of personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces by between 30 and 80 per cent.

The approval, which will take effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The statement explained that the salary adjustment was designed to favour lower-ranking personnel with higher percentage increases.

Under the new arrangement, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General and above, including Major-General, Lieutenant-General and General, as well as officers above the rank of Colonel, 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 soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent raise.

The new package will increase the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, which represents an additional ₦264 billion.

President Tinubu said the salary review reflects the Federal Government’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in tackling banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.

He said, “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.”

The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of troops and strengthening the country’s military capabilities.

“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 said.

Tinubu also stressed the importance of security to national development.

He said, “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.”

The President urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s gratitude for their service.

“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.