President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30% and 80% for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with the new pay package expected to benefit about 250,000 officers and soldiers across various ranks.
The salary adjustment, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will increase the annual wage bill for the armed forces from N660 billion to N924 billion, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Under the new salary structure, officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30% increase in their salaries.
Officers from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will enjoy a 50% increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80% salary increase.
The Presidency said the salary review forms part of the Tinubu administration’s efforts to improve troop welfare and recognise the sacrifices of military personnel engaged in the fight against banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other security threats across the country.
President Tinubu said members of the armed forces who continue to risk their lives to safeguard the nation deserve adequate support and appreciation.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the armed forces by providing the weapons and technological tools required to enhance their operational effectiveness.
According to him, security remains fundamental to Nigeria’s development, adding that his administration will continue to deploy all available military and law enforcement resources to tackle insecurity and 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 dedication to national service, expressing confidence that the country’s security forces would prevail against those seeking to undermine Nigeria’s peace and stability.
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