Trending 
President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of Nigeria’s armed forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 percent for about 250,000 military personnel.
The new salary package, announced on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, will take effect from September 1.
Under the revised structure, officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier-generals, major-generals, lieutenant-generals and generals, will receive a 30 percent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of colonel to warrant officer will benefit from a 50 percent pay rise, while soldiers from private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 percent increase.
According to the Presidency, the adjustment will raise the annual wage bill for military personnel from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
Announcing the decision, Tinubu said the salary increase reflected his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of troops engaged in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
“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 also pledged continued investment in the armed forces through improved equipment and technology.
“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 said security remained central to his administration’s development agenda, stressing that lasting national progress depended on a safe and 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.”
The President urged military personnel to view the pay increase as recognition of their sacrifices and dedication to national 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.”
The salary increase comes as Nigerian troops continue operations against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents in the North East, as well as bandits and kidnappers operating across parts of the North West, North Central and other regions.
The welfare of military personnel has remained a recurring issue, with calls from security experts and retired officers for improved remuneration, better equipment and enhanced support for serving personnel and veterans.
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES SALARY INCREASES FOR ARMED FORCES PERSONNEL
President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for Nigeria’s armed forces personnel.
About 250,000 personnel are to benefit from the new deal.
Under the new…
— Daddy D.O🇳🇬 (@DOlusegun) August 4, 2026
