President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, a move that will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel. The new pay package takes effect from September 1, 2026, and is structured according to rank, with junior personnel receiving the highest percentage increase.
Rank-Based Increments
Under the new arrangement, 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 get a 50 per cent increase, while those from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increment.
Financial Impact
The statement, issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the new salary structure would raise the annual wage bill of the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting a significant increase in the government’s commitment to military welfare.
Presidential Justification
According to Onanuga, the salary adjustment reflects President Tinubu’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in confronting banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across parts of 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.
Broader Context
This development comes amid ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, where the military plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability. The increase is seen as a strategic move to boost morale and enhance the effectiveness of the armed forces in their operations.
Military personnel and analysts have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a positive step towards recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of those serving in the nation’s defense. The implementation of the new salary structure is expected to be seamless, with the relevant authorities already briefed on the details.
