President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in what is being described as the most significant military pay review under his administration.
The new salary structure will take effect from September 1, 2026, increasing the military’s annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
Under the revised package, junior personnel will receive the highest percentage increase. Soldiers from the rank of private to staff sergeant will enjoy an 80 per cent salary increase, while warrant officers through to colonels will receive a 50 per cent raise. Senior officers from brigadier-general to general will have their salaries increased by 30 per cent.
The Presidency said the review was approved in recognition of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in tackling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
It added that the Tinubu administration remains committed to improving the welfare of military personnel while continuing efforts to modernise the Armed Forces through the acquisition of advanced weapons, equipment and technology.
The announcement has been welcomed by several retired senior military officers, who described the pay rise as a significant morale booster that could strengthen troop motivation, improve recruitment and enhance operational effectiveness.
The retired officers, however, urged the Federal Government to ensure the new salary structure is implemented without delay and complemented with other welfare initiatives, including improved accommodation, healthcare, logistics and the provision of modern military hardware.
Serving military personnel also expressed optimism over the development but said they would withhold full celebration until the revised salaries are reflected in their bank accounts.
According to some service members, timely implementation of the new pay package will be the clearest indication of the government’s commitment to improving the welfare and operational readiness of the nation’s armed forces.
