President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, granting pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent in a move aimed at boosting troop welfare and strengthening the country’s security architecture.
The new salary package, which will take effect from September 1, is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel across the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force.
Under the approved structure, officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.
The salary review will raise the annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.
Announcing the approval, the Presidency said the decision underscores President Tinubu’s recognition of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
According to the President, members of the military deserve adequate support and appreciation for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation.
“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 reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare while continuing efforts to modernise the Armed Forces through the provision of advanced weapons, equipment and technological tools needed to enhance operational effectiveness.
“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,” the President stated.
Tinubu stressed that national security remains central to his administration’s development agenda, noting that sustainable progress cannot be achieved without a secure environment.
“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,” he said.
The President also urged military personnel to view the salary increase as an expression of the nation’s appreciation for their service and dedication.
“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,” he added.
The salary adjustment is one of the most significant welfare packages approved for the Armed Forces in recent years and comes as security agencies intensify operations against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the country.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
