President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for officers and personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, a move expected to boost troop morale and strengthen ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the country.
The salary review, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 personnel of the Armed Forces.
Under the new package, officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase. Officers from colonel down to warrant officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.
The adjustment will increase the annual salary bill for the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
Announcing the approval in a statement on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the decision underscores the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
President Tinubu said the Federal Government remains deeply appreciative of the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces in protecting the nation’s territorial integrity and citizens.
“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 stressed that beyond improving remuneration, his administration would continue to invest in the capacity of the military.
“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 said.
The President described security as the foundation for national development, insisting that his government would remain unwavering in its commitment to defeating criminal elements.
“Our administration believes that no nation can achieve greatness without security,” he said.
He added, “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.”
Tinubu also assured members of the Armed Forces that the salary increase reflects the government’s gratitude for their dedication and service to the nation.
“I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the country’s security forces, the President declared, “Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation.”
The latest salary review is one of the administration’s major welfare interventions for military personnel and comes as security agencies intensify operations against insurgents, terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups across the country.