Increase for Nigerian Armed Forces, Boosting Troop Welfare by Okwo Romeon Abuja.

 

Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary 

In a major boost to the welfare of military personnel, 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, depending on rank.

The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across the 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 Colonel to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent, reflecting the administration's focus on improving the welfare of junior ranks.

The salary review is expected to raise the annual personnel cost of the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing one of the most significant military welfare packages in recent years.

Announcing the decision, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration's commitment to improving the welfare, morale and operational capacity of the Armed Forces as they continue to confront insecurity across the country.

He praised the courage, resilience and sacrifices of military personnel engaged in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.

"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 assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to prioritise troop welfare while modernising the Armed Forces through improved funding, advanced military equipment and cutting-edge technology.

According to the President, national security remains central to his administration's development agenda.

"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 stated.

President Tinubu urged members of the Armed Forces to view the salary increase as an expression of the nation's appreciation for their service and dedication.

"I urge our servicemen and women to take this gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together, we shall prevail over those determined to undermine the peace, unity and stability of our nation," he said.

The salary increase forms part of the Federal Government's broader strategy to strengthen the nation's security architecture by improving troop welfare, boosting morale and enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.