NewsNigeriaPoliticsTinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Military Personnel

President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with the new pay structure taking effect from September 1.

The increase will see the annual salary bill for military personnel rise from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

Under the new arrangement, 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 receive a 50 per cent increase, while privates to staff sergeants will get the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.

The decision comes as military personnel continue to operate in some of the country’s most dangerous areas, confronting banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

Tinubu has repeatedly acknowledged the risks faced by members of the armed forces and their sacrifices in securing 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,” the President said.

“Our administration will continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the armed forces by providing the weapons and technological tools needed to discharge their duties.”

Tinubu said his administration regarded security as essential to the country’s development and would continue to deploy military and law enforcement resources against threats to lives and property.

According to him, “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 and protect the lives and property of all Nigerians.”

He urged military personnel to see the pay increase as recognition of their service to the country, saying: “I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation.”