President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

This was disclosed in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on Tuesday.

The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel across the country.

Under the new arrangement, 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 down to Warrant Officer will receive a 50 per cent increase, while those from Private to Staff Sergeant will get an 80 per cent salary increase.

The President said the decision was in recognition of the sacrifices and contributions of members of the armed forces in combating banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.

“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”. The statement reads.