President Bola Tinubu has approved a major salary increase for members of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, with personnel set to receive pay rises ranging from 30 to 80 per cent under a new welfare package aimed at boosting morale and strengthening national security.
The salary adjustment, which will take effect from September 1, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across all ranks.
Under the new structure, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase, while personnel from Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase. Soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.
The new pay package will raise the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting a significant investment in troop welfare.
Announcing the approval, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
“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 assured members of the Armed Forces that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare while accelerating efforts to modernise the military through the provision of advanced weapons, equipment and technological capabilities needed to enhance operational effectiveness.
According to the President, security remains the foundation for national development, stressing that no country can achieve sustainable progress 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,” Tinubu stated.
He urged military personnel to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their patriotism and dedication to national service.
“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,” the President added.
The salary review is one of the most significant welfare interventions for Nigeria’s Armed Forces in recent years and is expected to boost morale, improve operational efficiency and reinforce the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture amid persistent threats from insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
