President Bola Tinubu has approved a major military salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The new pay package will take effect on September 1 and benefit about 250,000 personnel.
The military salary increase ranges from 30 to 80 percent, depending on rank. The move is aimed at improving troop welfare and rewarding personnel fighting insecurity across the country.
The Presidency announced the decision through the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The annual wage bill for the armed forces will rise from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
Under the new structure, officers above the rank of Colonel will receive a 30 percent increase. Personnel from Colonel to Warrant Officer will get a 50 percent raise. Those from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 percent salary increase.
Explaining the decision, Onanuga quoted the President as saying, “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.”
He added, “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.”
Tinubu also assured Nigerians that security remains a top priority. He said the government would continue strengthening the military with modern equipment and technology to tackle banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
The President urged military personnel to see the salary increase as a sign of the nation’s appreciation. He expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome those threatening the country’s peace and security.
