*Announces salary increase of 30 to 80% for 250,000 armed forces personnel
*Officers above rank of Brigadier General will receive 30% increase, Cols down to W/Officers 50%
*While Personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive 80% salary increase
*Says new wage structure takes effect from September 1, 2026
By Austin Ehikioya
President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The new pay package, announced on Monday, August 4, 2026, by the State House, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel and takes effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of colonel – Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals will receive a 30 per cent increase while personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will get a 50 per cent increase.
On the order hand, personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase.
The pay adjustment according to a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Ononuga will raise the yearly salary bill for armed forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion.
President Tinubu, who has consistently praised the courage and sacrifices of the armed forces in tackling banditry, kidnapping and terrorism, said the increase reflects the government’s appreciation for their service.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies’ intent on destroying the fabric of our nation”, he said.
The salary review, according to the statement is part of broader efforts by the Tinubu administration to improve welfare, morale and operational capacity of the military amid ongoing security operations nationwide.
