Tinubu Announces Major Military Salary Increase, 250,000 Soldiers to Benefit

President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in a move aimed at improving troop welfare and boosting morale.

The new salary structure, which will take effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

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

According to the statement, the salary review adopts a graduated structure that gives the highest percentage increase to junior personnel.

Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier-generals, major-generals, lieutenant-generals and generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will receive a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of private to staff sergeant will enjoy an 80 per cent salary adjustment.

The Federal Government said the review will increase the annual salary bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing an additional ₦264 billion in personnel costs.

President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats 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 said.

Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the military through improved welfare and modern equipment.

“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.

The President stressed that security remains essential to national development, noting that the government would continue mobilising military and law enforcement resources to protect lives and property.

He urged military personnel to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and encouraged them to remain committed to defending the country.

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