Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces in a move aimed at improving troop welfare and strengthening national security.

The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across various ranks.

Under the approved package, 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 salary increase.

According to the Presidency, the new pay package will raise the annual salary bill for the country’s armed forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.

President Tinubu said the salary review reflects his administration’s appreciation for the courage, patriotism and sacrifices of members of the armed forces in tackling banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other security threats across the country.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel while continuing to modernise the armed forces through the provision of advanced weapons and technological equipment needed for effective operations.

The President stressed that security remains central to national development, noting that no country can attain greatness without guaranteeing the safety of its citizens.

Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to mobilise military and other law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and safeguard lives and property nationwide.

He also urged members of the armed forces to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and dedication to the nation.

The approval was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.