Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Military

President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with pay adjustments ranging from 30% to 80%, set to take effect on September 1, 2026. This new remuneration package will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. The salary structure is designed to favor lower-ranking personnel, with junior officers and soldiers receiving the highest increments.

Specifically, officers from Brigadier-General to General will see a 30% increase, while personnel from Colonel to Warrant Officer will receive a 50% adjustment. Soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will benefit from an 80% increase.

The revised pay package will raise the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, adding ₦264 billion in personnel costs. President Tinubu emphasized the importance of supporting military personnel in their fight against terrorism and other security threats, reaffirming his administration's commitment to their welfare and national security.