President Bola Tinubu has approved a military salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of Nigeria’s armed forces, reinforcing the Federal Government’s commitment to improving troop welfare and strengthening national security. The new pay package will benefit about 250,000 military personnel and will take effect from 1 September 2026.
According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the military salary increase follows a graduated structure that gives the highest percentage rise to junior personnel. Officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals, and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent increase.
Personnel from colonel to warrant officer will enjoy a 50 per cent salary rise, while those from private to staff sergeant will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent. The adjustment will raise the annual armed forces wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing an additional ₦264 billion.
President Tinubu said the decision recognises the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in combating 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.”
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to troop welfare and military modernisation.
“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.
Tinubu added that national security remains central to Nigeria’s development, saying, “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 urged service personnel to view the military salary increase as a sign of the government’s appreciation, expressing confidence that together they would overcome threats facing the nation.
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