Nigerian Northern Senators Commend Tinubu for Armed Forces Salary Increase

Senators representing Nigeria's 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory have lauded President Bola Tinubu for his administration's approval of substantial salary increases for the Nigerian Armed Forces. The Northern Senators Forum, in a statement released Tuesday night, expressed hearty gratitude for the pay raise, which ranges between 30% and 80%.

“

I heartily thank His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for approving significant salary increases of between 30% and 80% for our gallant men and women in uniform.

This significant welfare enhancement is set to take effect from September 1, 2026, and will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across all ranks. The increase effectively raises the annual personnel wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion. Forum Chairman Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua emphasized that this move clearly demonstrates President Tinubu's deep appreciation for the courage, patriotism, and sacrifices of the armed forces who ensure national security.

“

This timely intervention, effective from September 1, 2026, and covering about 250,000 personnel across all ranks, is a clear demonstration of Mr. President’s deep appreciation for the courage, patriotism, and sacrifices of those who keep our nation safe.

At a time when Nigerian troops are actively engaged in combating banditry, kidnapping, insurgency, and terrorism nationwide, the senators believe this welfare package will significantly boost morale, restore dignity, and affirm that their service is recognized. Senator Yar’Adua, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Army, congratulated the Nigerian Army on this development, noting it follows recent expansions of divisions aimed at strengthening operational reach.

“

At a time when our troops are confronting the scourge of banditry, kidnapping, insurgency and terrorism in different parts of the country, this welfare package will boost morale, restore dignity, and reaffirm that their service does not go unnoticed.

Addressing the troops directly, the senators acknowledged their sacrifices on the frontlines, from the North East to the North West. They assured officers and soldiers that their efforts to keep Nigeria united and secure are not in vain. The Senate Committee on Army pledged to continue collaborating with the Executive branch to ensure the full implementation of this welfare package, alongside improvements in equipment and overall conditions of service. Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan also commended President Tinubu, describing the salary increase as a crucial morale booster for the armed forces.

“

it is with a deep sense of duty and support that I commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, following his landmark approval, on Tuesday, of a substantial salary increase for the gallant men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces.