GistReel

The Federal Government has approved a major salary review for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with President Bola Tinubu authorising increases of between 30 and 80 per cent across different military ranks.

The revised pay package, which will come into effect on September 1, 2026, is expected to benefit about 250,000 serving personnel.

The development was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Lower-ranking personnel to receive bigger increases

The salary adjustment was designed to favour junior personnel, who will receive the highest percentage increase under the new structure.

According to the breakdown, military officers from the rank of General to Colonel will receive a 30 per cent increase.

Personnel between Colonel and Warrant Officer will have their salaries raised by 50 per cent, while those from Private to Staff Sergeant will benefit from an 80 per cent increase.

The new salary structure will increase the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, adding N264 billion to the government’s expenditure on military salaries.

Tinubu reaffirms commitment to troop welfare

President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s determination to reward the dedication of military personnel who continue to confront terrorism, banditry and kidnapping in different parts of the country.

He said, “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 also pledged to sustain investments in the welfare and operational capacity of the Armed Forces.

“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,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of security to national development, Tinubu stated that lasting progress cannot be achieved without a safe and secure country.

“Our administration believes that 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 said.

He urged members of the Armed Forces to accept the salary review as a token of the nation’s gratitude for their sacrifices.

“I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland.

“Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” the President said.