President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for about 250,000 members of the Armed Forces. The new salary structure will take effect from September 1, 2026. It will also increase the military’s annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
Junior officers get highest increase
The Presidency announced the salary review on Tuesday, saying it recognises the sacrifices military personnel continue to make in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping. Under the new structure, soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase. Warrant Officers to Colonels will get a 50 per cent increase, while Brigadier-Generals to Generals will receive 30 per cent more.
“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.
The President also assured personnel that his administration would continue to prioritise troop welfare while modernising the Armed Forces with improved weapons and technology.
Defence minister welcomes pay rise
Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), described the salary review as a major boost to troop welfare and operational effectiveness. According to him, the increase will reduce financial pressure on military personnel and improve morale among troops serving in different theatres of operation across the country.
Musa also assured the President that the Armed Forces would respond with greater commitment, discipline and improved operational performance.
Retired military chiefs react
Several retired senior military officers welcomed the salary increase and described it as a timely intervention. Former Director of Army Public Relations, retired Brig. Gen. Sani Usman, said no amount of money could fully compensate soldiers for the risks they take in defending the country.
He, however, commended the President for recognising their sacrifices and improving their welfare. Retired Commodore Omatseye Nesiama and retired Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinbi also praised the decision. However, they urged the Federal Government to complement the salary review with better equipment, logistics, accommodation and welfare packages.
Soldiers await implementation
Serving military personnel also welcomed the announcement but said they would celebrate only after the new salaries appear in their bank accounts. Some officers described the increase as a positive step that could improve recruitment and troop morale. However, they insisted that prompt implementation would determine the government’s commitment to military welfare.
Senators commend Tinubu
Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Ahmad Lawan, also praised the salary review. The lawmakers said the new pay structure would strengthen troop morale and improve the operational effectiveness of personnel involved in the fight against insecurity.
They also urged the Federal Government to ensure full implementation of the new salary package while continuing to improve military equipment and welfare.
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