Tinubu Approves New Military Salary Structure
President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Armed Forces, with pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for about 250,000 military personnel.
The new salary package, which will take effect from September 1, 2026, is expected to raise the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, representing an additional N264 billion.
Under the revised structure, personnel from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase, while warrant officers to colonels will receive a 50 per cent increase. Brigadier-generals to generals will receive a 30 per cent increase.
The Presidency said the graduated pay structure was designed to give the highest percentage increases to junior personnel in recognition of their contributions and sacrifices in various security operations across the country.
Tinubu said the salary review was in recognition of the sacrifices military personnel continue to make in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
“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,” the President said.
He added that his administration would continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the Armed Forces by providing the weapons and technological tools required to carry out their duties effectively.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), described the approval as a major boost to troop welfare, morale and operational effectiveness.
Musa said the new salary structure demonstrated the President’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
“The President has once again demonstrated unwavering leadership and empathy for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line daily to preserve the peace and territorial integrity of our nation,” he said.
He noted that the salary increase would help reduce financial pressure on troops and boost morale among personnel deployed in different theatres of operation across the country.
Retired military officers also welcomed the development, describing it as a timely intervention that could improve troop commitment, recruitment and operational effectiveness.
A former Director of Army Public Relations, retired Brig. Gen. Sani Usman, said military personnel deserved to be among the best-paid public servants because of the risks, sacrifices and difficult conditions associated with their duties.
He said the 80 per cent increase for junior personnel would provide significant relief, particularly amid rising living costs.
Retired Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinbi said the salary review would boost troop morale, encourage greater commitment and make military service more attractive to young Nigerians.
He, however, urged the Federal Government to complement the pay increase with modern weapons, improved accommodation, quality uniforms and adequate logistics.
“The government should not stop at salaries. The troops need more protection and technology to support their operations. They need sophisticated weapons, accommodation, uniforms and the logistics required to perform their duties effectively,” Adewinbi said.
Some serving military personnel welcomed the announcement but said they would reserve celebration until the new salaries were reflected in their bank accounts.
A military officer, who spoke anonymously, described the salary review as a positive step that could improve recruitment and make military service more rewarding.
“Until we start receiving it, we are not celebrating. It is the right move because poor welfare has been affecting recruitment. Better welfare will make military service more rewarding and encourage more Nigerians to serve,” the officer said.
Another serving personnel said implementation would be the true test of the government’s commitment to troop welfare.
“It is good news, but it does not call for jubilation yet. It is when the money starts hitting our bank accounts that we can celebrate,” the personnel said.
The salary review is the most significant upward adjustment of military pay under the Tinubu administration and comes as the Federal Government continues efforts to strengthen the Armed Forces and improve the country’s response to security threats.
