Abuja – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with personnel set to receive pay raises ranging from 30 to 80 per cent beginning September 1, 2026.
The landmark welfare package, announced in a State House statement on Tuesday, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force, underscoring the Federal Government’s commitment to improving troop welfare amid ongoing security operations nationwide.
Under the new salary structure, 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 down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent pay rise, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent, in what is regarded as one of the most significant military salary reviews in recent years.
The new package is expected to raise the annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting the government’s increased investment in the welfare of military personnel.
President Tinubu said the salary review was in recognition of the courage, patriotism and sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.
He stressed that the men and women risking their lives to defend Nigeria deserve adequate support and appreciation, assuring that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare while modernising the military through improved weaponry and advanced technological capabilities.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening national security, noting that sustainable development and national progress cannot be achieved without a secure environment.
He urged military personnel to view the enhanced remuneration as a demonstration of the nation’s gratitude for their service and encouraged them to remain steadfast in the fight against criminal elements threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability.
The approval marks another significant step in the Federal Government’s efforts to boost the morale, motivation and operational effectiveness of the country’s Armed Forces.
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