pannigeriannews 
By Isaiah Adewole
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, a move expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel across various ranks as part of efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen national security.
The approval, announced in a State House press release issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, will take effect from September 1, 2026.
Under the new salary 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 private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.
The new remuneration package is expected to raise the Federal Government’s annual salary expenditure on armed forces personnel from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to recognising the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in confronting insecurity 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 reaffirmed that his administration would continue to place the welfare of military personnel at the forefront while investing in modern military capabilities.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
The President also stressed that security remains fundamental to national development, noting that the government would continue deploying all available security resources to combat criminality.
“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.
Tinubu urged members of the armed forces to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and dedication to the country.
“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.
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