TD Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a significant salary increase for Nigeria’s armed forces personnel, a move aimed at boosting morale and recognizing the sacrifices of the country’s military in the fight against insecurity.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency, about 250,000 personnel will benefit from the new pay structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026. The increment ranges between 30 and 80 per cent, depending on rank.
Breakdown of the New Salary Structure
- Senior Officers (above Colonel): Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals, and Generals will receive a 30 per cent increase.
- Mid-Level Officers (Colonel down to Warrant Officer): These ranks will enjoy a 50 per cent increase.
- Junior Personnel (Private to Staff Sergeant): The largest increment of 80 per cent has been approved for this category.
The new arrangement will raise the annual salary bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting the government’s commitment to prioritizing troop welfare.
Presidential Statement
President Tinubu praised the courage and dedication of the armed forces, noting their role in confronting banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism 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.
“Our administration will continue to prioritize troop welfare and modernize the armed forces by providing the weapons and technological tools needed to discharge their duties,” he said.
The President emphasized that national security remains central to his administration’s agenda:
“No nation can achieve greatness without security.
“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.”
He urged servicemen to see the salary increase as a gesture of appreciation for their sacrifices.
He added: “Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation.”
Implications
The salary increase is expected to boost morale among troops, particularly junior personnel who will benefit most from the adjustment.
Analysts note that the move could also strengthen recruitment and retention in the armed forces, while reinforcing the government’s broader security strategy.
The announcement comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges, including insurgency in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and rising cases of kidnapping across several states.
By approving this pay rise, President Tinubu has signaled his administration’s determination to support the armed forces both materially and morally.
The measure underscores the government’s recognition that improved welfare is critical to sustaining the fight against insecurity and ensuring stability across the nation.
