Northern senators hail Tinubu over military pay rise

Northern Nigerian senators have lauded President Bola Tinubu for approving a new salary structure for the nation's Armed Forces, describing it as a crucial morale booster for troops engaged in combating widespread insecurity.

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I heartily thank President Bola Tinubu for approving significant salary increases of between 30% and 80% for our gallant men and women in uniform.

The pay increase, which spans 30% to 80% depending on rank, is intended to enhance the fighting spirit of military personnel confronting threats such as banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping. The Presidency announced on Tuesday that approximately 250,000 armed forces personnel will benefit from the new package, effective September 1, 2026.

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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.

Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, expressed gratitude for the decision, viewing it as a clear demonstration of appreciation for the sacrifices made by officers and soldiers. He noted that this welfare package would bolster morale, restore dignity, and affirm that their service is recognized, especially as they face various security challenges nationwide.

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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.

Yar’Adua, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Army, linked the salary increase to the recent expansion of Army divisions, interpreting both as signals of the government's dedication to strengthening national security. He assured troops on the frontlines that their sacrifices are valued and that the Senate Committee on Army will collaborate with the executive branch to ensure the full implementation of the welfare package, alongside improvements in equipment and service conditions.

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Increasing the annual personnel wage bill from N660bn to N924bn shows the seriousness of this administration in prioritizing the welfare and modernisation of our Armed Forces.