JUST IN: Tinubu approves up to 80% salary increase for armed forces personnel

Crime Diary, Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent across various ranks as part of efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen national security.

The new salary package, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Under the approved structure, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Personnel from the rank of Colonel to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.

The Presidency said the review will increase the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.

According to the statement, the salary adjustment reflects the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

President Tinubu said members of the Armed Forces deserve better support as they continue to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect 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,” the President said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare while continuing to modernise the Armed Forces through the provision of modern weapons, equipment and technological 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,” Tinubu stated.

The President stressed that national security remains central to his administration’s development agenda, noting that sustainable economic growth cannot be achieved without a secure environment.

“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,” he said.

Tinubu also urged military personnel to view the salary increase as an expression of the nation’s appreciation for their dedication and patriotism.

“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,” the President added.