President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved significant salary increases for Nigeria’s armed forces personnel, with raises ranging from 30 to 80 per cent across all ranks, effective September 1, 2026.
According to a statement released Monday, August 4, 2026 by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, about 250,000 military personnel will benefit from the new pay package. The salary adjustment is structured by rank. Officers above the rank of colonel — including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals — will receive a 30 per cent increase.
Personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will get a 50 per cent increase. The highest raise of 80 per cent was approved for ranks from Private to Staff Sergeant. The new structure is expected to raise the federal government’s annual salary bill for armed forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion, an increase of N264 billion.
President Tinubu said the increase is in recognition of the courage and sacrifices of service men and women who are confronting banditry, kidnapping and terrorism in parts of the country. “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,” he said. He added that his administration will continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the armed forces with weapons and technological tools needed for operations.
The President further stated that no nation can achieve greatness without security, and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to mobilise all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and protect lives and property. He urged personnel to see the pay rise as a sign of the government’s deep appreciation. “Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” Tinubu said.
The salary adjustment comes amid ongoing operations against insurgency and violent crime nationwide. Analysts say the move is aimed at boosting morale, reducing attrition, and aligning military pay with the rising cost of living. With implementation set for next month, expectations are high among troops and families that the welfare package will translate to improved motivation on the frontlines.
