President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for Nigeria’s armed forces, with pay increases ranging from 30% to 80% to improve troop welfare and strengthen national security.
President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, introducing a new pay structure aimed at improving the welfare and motivation of military personnel across the country.
According to the announcement, the salary review will benefit approximately 250,000 officers and soldiers, with increases ranging from 30 percent to 80 percent, depending on rank. The revised salary package is scheduled to take effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the new structure, senior officers from the rank of Colonel and above will receive a 30 percent salary increase. Officers from Colonel down to Warrant Officer are set to benefit from a 50 percent increase, while personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 percent.
The Presidency said the decision reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to recognizing the sacrifices of the nation’s armed forces, who continue to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats across Nigeria.
The new salary package is expected to increase the military’s annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, highlighting the administration’s increased investment in troop welfare and operational readiness.
Government officials also reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the armed forces through improved welfare, better equipment, and modern technology to enhance national security and support military operations nationwide.
