President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent depending on rank.
The salary adjustment, which will take effect from September 1, 2026, is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the new pay structure, the highest percentage increases will go to junior personnel. Soldiers from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase, while personnel from warrant officer to colonel will benefit from a 50 per cent raise. Senior officers, including brigadier generals, major generals, lieutenant generals and generals, as well as officers above the rank of colonel, will receive a 30 per cent increase.
The salary review will increase the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, representing an additional N264 billion in government expenditure.
President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating 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 improving troop welfare and strengthening the military through the provision of modern weapons and advanced technological equipment.
Tinubu stressed that security remains the foundation for national development, noting that his government would continue deploying all available military and law enforcement resources to tackle threats to lives and property.
He also urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service, expressing confidence that the country would overcome those seeking to undermine its peace and stability.
