President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a comprehensive salary review for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent in one of the most significant military welfare packages in recent years.
The new salary structure, scheduled to take effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 personnel across the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
Under the approved package, senior 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 the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent pay rise, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant, who make up the largest category of junior enlisted personnel, will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent.
The review will increase the Federal Government's annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, highlighting the administration's commitment to improving the welfare and motivation of military personnel.
Announcing the approval, the Presidency said the salary adjustment was in recognition of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges confronting 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," President Tinubu said.
The President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to enhancing troop welfare while continuing to modernise the Armed Forces through the acquisition of advanced weapons systems and cutting-edge technology.
According to him, a secure nation is essential for economic growth and sustainable development.
"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 stated.
Tinubu stressed that no country can achieve lasting progress without a secure environment, pledging to continue deploying all available military and law enforcement resources to combat insecurity and protect lives and property across the country.
He urged members of the Armed Forces to regard the salary review as a demonstration of the government's appreciation for their patriotism, courage and unwavering commitment to national service.
"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 added.
The salary increase comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to improve troop morale, strengthen military capacity and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces in the ongoing campaign against insecurity across Nigeria.
