President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a significant upward review of salaries for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with personnel set to receive increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent beginning from September 1, 2026.
The development is expected to benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across various ranks and formations nationwide as part of efforts to improve welfare, boost morale and strengthen the country’s security architecture.
Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent increase in their salaries.
Under the new package, officers from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent salary increment, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant ranks will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent.
The adjustment will raise the annual personnel cost of the Armed Forces from about ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel engaged in various security operations across the country.
President Tinubu noted that members of the Armed Forces continue to make enormous sacrifices in confronting insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities threatening national stability.
According to the President, the salary increase is a demonstration of the administration’s appreciation for the dedication and patriotism displayed by military personnel in safeguarding the country.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces through improved welfare packages, modern weapon systems and advanced technological equipment needed for effective service delivery.
Tinubu stressed that national development cannot be achieved without security, adding that the government remains determined to deploy all necessary military and law enforcement resources to protect lives and property.
The President urged service personnel to view the gesture as recognition of their sacrifices and commitment to national service, assuring them that the government would continue prioritising their welfare and operational effectiveness.
The latest salary review comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to improve conditions of service within the military and enhance the capacity of security agencies to tackle emerging security challenges across the country.
