President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for Nigeria’s armed forces personnel, in a move aimed at boosting troop morale and strengthening national security.
The approval, announced in a State House press release on Tuesday, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across various ranks and takes effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the new pay structure, officers above the rank of colonel—including brigadier-generals, major-generals, lieutenant-generals and generals—will receive a 30 per cent increase. Personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will earn a 50 per cent raise, while junior ranks from private to staff sergeant will see their salaries rise by 80 per cent.
The adjustment is expected to raise the federal government’s annual wage bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel amid ongoing security challenges 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 added that his government would continue to prioritise troop welfare while modernising the armed forces with the necessary weapons and technological tools to effectively combat threats.
“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 emphasised that national security remains central to Nigeria’s development, noting that no country can achieve sustainable progress without safeguarding lives and property.
“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 called on military personnel to view the salary increase as recognition of their sacrifices and dedication to the country.
“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 added.
The pay rise comes as Nigeria continues to confront security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping and terrorism, particularly in parts of the North-West and North-East regions.
