President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant pay rise for Nigeria’s armed forces personnel, with salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent.

The new package, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 service members. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development in a statement on Tuesday.

According to Onanuga, the increase is structured to favour junior ranks, with the highest percentage going to the lowest-ranking personnel. Officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier-generals, major-generals, lieutenant generals, and generals, will receive a 30 per cent raise. Personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will see a 50 per cent increase, while privates up to staff sergeants will enjoy an 80 per cent boost.

The adjustment raises the annual salary bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, an increase of ₦264 billion.

President Tinubu linked the pay rise to the sacrifices made by troops in combating banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across the country. He emphasized that troop welfare and military modernization remain priorities for his administration.

“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 said. He added that the government would continue to provide modern weapons and technology to strengthen the armed forces.

Reaffirming his philosophy on national security, Tinubu stated: “No nation can achieve greatness without security. We remain resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate threats and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.”

He urged personnel to see the pay rise as a gesture of appreciation, assuring them that together, Nigeria will prevail against forces seeking to destabilize the nation.

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