President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for approximately 250,000 military personnel.
The salary adjustment will take effect from September 1 and is expected to increase the armed forces’ annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
The approval was announced on Tuesday in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Breakdown of Salary Increase
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.
- Personnel from the rank of colonel to warrant officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase.
- Soldiers from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase.
The revised package is expected to benefit about 250,000 personnel across the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Tinubu Cites Troop Welfare
According to Onanuga, President Tinubu approved the salary increase in recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
The President said the welfare of members of the armed forces remains a priority for his administration.
“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,” Tinubu said.
More Support for Armed Forces
President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the military by providing improved weapons, equipment and technological tools to enhance operational effectiveness.
He stressed that strengthening national security remains central to the government’s agenda, adding that military and law enforcement agencies would continue to receive the support needed to tackle insecurity.
The President urged members of the armed forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and dedication to protecting the country.
