President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for personnel across Nigeria’s armed forces, the presidency announced on Tuesday.
The upgraded pay structure, set to take effect on September 1, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel nationwide.
Under the new review, lower-ranking troops from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent. Mid-level personnel, ranging from Warrant Officers up to Colonels, will see a 50 per cent increase, while senior officers from Brigadier-General to four-star General will receive a 30 per cent pay raise.
The wage adjustment will raise the country’s annual military personnel wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion ($582 million).
Focus on troop welfare and national security
Speaking on the approval, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted President Tinubu as reiterating his administration’s commitment to prioritizing military welfare and modernizing equipment amid ongoing counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations.
“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,” President Tinubu said in a statement.
“Our administration believes that no nation can achieve greatness without security. We therefore remain resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats.”
The presidential spokesperson added that the salary review is intended to boost morale as the military continues operations against armed groups, kidnappers, and insurgents operating across various regions of the country.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.