By Gideon Maxwell
August 4, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in a landmark welfare intervention expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel across the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, provides increases ranging from 30 per cent to 80 per cent, with the highest adjustments targeted at junior personnel serving on the frontlines of the country’s security operations.
Under the approved structure, officers from the rank of Colonel and above will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from Colonel to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary boost.
The Presidency said the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to improving troop welfare and recognising the sacrifices of military personnel engaged in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
President Tinubu said members of the Armed Forces deserve the nation’s support for their courage and dedication to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.
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“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 added that his administration would continue to prioritise troop welfare alongside sustained investments in military equipment, technology and operational capacity.
According to the Presidency, the salary review will increase the Federal Government’s annual military wage bill from about N660 billion to N924 billion, representing an additional N264 billion in personnel costs.
The approval comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen the Armed Forces through improved welfare, recruitment, enhanced operational capability and the acquisition of modern military hardware to confront evolving security challenges across the country.
President Tinubu urged military personnel to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for their patriotism and service, expressing confidence that the Armed Forces would remain resolute in defending Nigeria against all threats.
