Military salary hike will boost anti-insurgency operations, Defence minister

Nigeria's Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa, lauded President Bola Tinubu's approval of a significant salary increase for military personnel, describing it as a crucial boost for troop welfare and operational effectiveness.

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His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has once again demonstrated unwavering leadership and empathy for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line daily to preserve the peace and territorial integrity of our nation.

The pay hike, ranging from 30 to 80 percent, is set to take effect on September 1, 2026. Musa stated that this historic review demonstrates the administration's commitment to improving the lives of frontline troops. The annual personnel cost for the Armed Forces will increase from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, a move the minister believes will directly address financial hardships faced by soldiers.

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By raising the annual personnel cost from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, the President has matched words with concrete action, proving that the welfare of our troops remains paramount.

"This subversion of financial hardship for our officers and soldiers will resonate across every theatre of operation," Musa said, highlighting its impact on efforts against insurgency in the North-East and banditry, oil theft, and kidnapping nationwide. He urged military personnel to reciprocate the gesture with renewed vigor, discipline, and heightened operational effectiveness.

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This subversion of financial hardship for our officers and soldiers will resonate across every theatre of operation; from those confronting insurgency in the North-East to troops tackling banditry, oil theft and kidnapping across the country.

The minister also reaffirmed the ministry's dedication to supporting the President's agenda for modernizing military equipment, enhancing technological capacity, and improving the welfare of personnel and their families. The salary increase is intended to recognize the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.

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On behalf of the entire defence structure, we assure Mr. President and the Nigerian public that this gesture will be met with renewed vigour, uncompromising discipline and heightened operational effectiveness.