Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel

By Zagazola Makama

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent, in a major welfare package aimed at boosting the morale of troops engaged in counter-insurgency and other internal security operations.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, about 250,000 military personnel will benefit from the new salary adjustment, which takes effect from Sept. 1, 2026.

Under the approved structure, officers above the rank of colonel—including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals—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 the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.

The new package will raise the annual personnel cost of the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to improving troop welfare.

President Tinubu said the decision was in recognition of the courage and sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other 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 reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare while modernising the Armed Forces through the provision of modern weapons, equipment and technological capabilities needed to effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.

According to the President, security remains the foundation for national development, stressing that his administration would continue to mobilise military and law enforcement assets to eliminate threats and safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The salary review is expected to provide a significant boost to the welfare of military personnel serving in various theatres of operation across the country, including those engaged in counter-terrorism, anti-banditry and peace support missions.