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

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase for members of Nigeria’s armed forces, with junior personnel set to receive the largest pay rise as part of efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen the country’s security operations.

The new salary structure, announced by the Presidency on Tuesday, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel and takes effect from September 1, 2026. Under the revised package, 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 enjoy a 50 per cent increase. Senior officers above the rank of Colonel; including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent pay rise.

The adjustment will increase the Federal Government’s annual military wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing one of the most significant salary reviews for Nigeria’s armed forces in recent years.

According to a statement issued 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 who continue to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

President Tinubu said members of the armed forces deserve greater support for the risks they take in defending the nation.

“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 also pledged that his administration would continue investing in modern weapons, technology and other resources needed to improve the operational effectiveness of the military.

The President stressed that national security remains central to his administration’s agenda, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace and stability.

He urged military personnel to view the salary increase as an expression of the government’s appreciation for their dedication and patriotism, while reaffirming his administration’s determination to eliminate security threats and safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians.

The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen the armed forces through improved welfare, expanded recruitment and increased investment in military equipment as Nigeria continues to confront insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, kidnapping in parts of the North-Central region and other security challenges across the country.