President Bola Tinubu has given an approval for a new salary structure for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent, in what the Federal Government described as part of efforts to strengthen troop welfare and boost the country’s security architecture.
The new salary structure, which is expected to take effect from September 1, 2026,will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across different ranks. The approval also raises the annual wage bill for the armed forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
The President according to the revised structure said the junior ranks—from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent, while officers from Colonel to Warrant Officer are to enjoy a 50 per cent salary adjustment.
Senior officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent increase in their salaries.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the salary review reflects the administration’s commitment to rewarding the sacrifices of military personnel engaged in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
President Tinubu maintained that the welfare of servicemen and women remains a priority of his administration, noting that beyond improved remuneration, the government would continue to modernise the armed forces by providing advanced weapons and technological equipment needed to enhance operational effectiveness.
President Tinubu urged members of the armed forces to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for their service and dedication, expressing confidence that with sustained support for the military and other security agencies, Nigeria would overcome the security challenges confronting the country.