Tinubu's Military Salary Hike Hailed as Morale Booster

Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan has lauded President Bola Tinubu's approval of a significant salary increase for Nigeria's Armed Forces, ranging from 30% to 80%. Lawan described the decision as a crucial morale booster for troops and a strategic investment in national security.

The new salary structure, set to take effect on September 1, 2026, will see junior personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant receive an 80% raise. Officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will get a 50% increase, while senior officers from Brigadier-General to General will see a 30% hike. This adjustment will increase the annual military wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, representing an additional N264 billion investment in the welfare of about 250,000 military personnel.

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The approval is a demonstration of the President’s commitment to the welfare of military personnel and a strategic investment in Nigeria’s security.

Lawan emphasized that the salary review is expected to significantly enhance troop morale, equipping them with the confidence needed to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats plaguing the nation. He urged the armed forces to respond to this gesture with increased dedication, professionalism, and operational efficiency. The former Senate President also called for stronger synergy and intelligence sharing among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, stressing the need for a unified force to effectively tackle complex threats.

Expressing optimism, Lawan believes the improved welfare package will catalyze intensified military operations aimed at restoring peace across Nigeria. He assured that the Senate Committee on Defence remains committed to ensuring adequate funding for the Armed Forces and supporting legislative actions that aid the military's efforts. Lawan thanked President Tinubu for prioritizing military welfare, acknowledging the sacrifices made by troops in defending Nigeria's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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The Army, Navy and Air Force must seamlessly integrate their operations and intelligence-sharing mechanisms. The complex nature of today’s threats demands that we do not just fight as individual services, but as one unified, lethal and professional force.