Tinubu Approves Historic Military Salary Increase

General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), the Minister of Defence, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a significant salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The new salary structure, effective from September 1, 2026, includes increments ranging from 30% to 80% for military personnel across all ranks, benefiting approximately 250,000 personnel in the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Junior ranks from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80% increase, while middle-level officers and non-commissioned officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will see a 50% increment. Senior officers above the rank of Colonel will receive a 30% increase.

General Musa described this approval as a landmark intervention that underscores the administration's commitment to troop welfare and national security. The annual personnel cost for the armed forces will rise from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting the government's support for military personnel.

Musa urged the armed forces to respond with enhanced commitment and professionalism in their duties.