Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Pay Rise for 250,000 Armed Forces Personnel

President Bola Tinubu has approved significant salary increases for Nigeria's Armed Forces, aiming to boost morale and enhance the nation's security efforts. Effective September 1, 2026, approximately 250,000 personnel will see their salaries rise by 30% to 80%, depending on their rank.

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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.

Under the new scale, officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier-Generals and above, will receive a 30% increase. Colonels down to warrant officers will get a 50% raise, while Privates to Staff Sergeants will benefit from an 80% increase. This adjustment will escalate the annual military wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion.

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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.

President Tinubu emphasized his administration's commitment to supporting and appreciating the armed forces, acknowledging their sacrifices in combating banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. He pledged to prioritize troop welfare, modernize the military with advanced weaponry and technology, and remain resolute in eliminating security threats to protect Nigerian lives and property. "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 stated.

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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

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, had previously indicated the government's intention to increase military salaries, noting past efforts to raise soldiers' pay. He expressed confidence that President Tinubu would ensure troops are well-remunerated for their significant sacrifices.

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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.