President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay rises ranging from 30 to 80 percent depending on rank. The new salary structure, which takes effect on September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across the country.
The announcement was made by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. According to the new arrangement, the percentage increase is structured to favour lower-ranking personnel. Officers above the rank of Colonel—including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals—will receive a 30 percent salary increase.Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will receive a 50 percent increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will benefit from the highest increase of 80 percent.
The salary adjustment will raise the annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, representing an additional ₦264 billion in government expenditure. President Tinubu said the decision reflects the administration’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
He stated that the government remains committed to improving the welfare of service members while strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces through the provision of modern weapons and advanced technological equipment.
The President also emphasised that national security remains central to his administration’s agenda, noting that lasting national development cannot be achieved without a secure environment.
He urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as recognition of their dedication and service to the nation, expressing confidence that, with continued commitment, Nigeria would overcome the security challenges confronting the country.
