Military Pensions Board Starts Paying New Pension Rates

The Military Pensions Board has announced the commencement of new pension rates and the payment of arrears to military pensioners, following salary adjustments approved by President Bola Tinubu in August 2026. The salary increases, effective from September 1, 2026, range from 30% to 80% depending on rank.

Officers above the rank of colonel will receive a 30% increase, while personnel from colonel to warrant officer will see a 50% increase. Those ranked from private to staff sergeant will benefit from an 80% increase.

Initially, the approval did not specify if retirees would receive similar benefits, but after protests, it was confirmed that veterans would also be included. Squadron Leader Aliyu Mohammed, the public relations officer of the Military Pensions Board, stated that the applicable arrears have been processed and payments began on October 2, 2026.

The board expressed appreciation for the patience of military pensioners during the implementation process and reaffirmed its commitment to timely pension payments.