President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a significant salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with increases ranging from 30 per cent to 80 per cent depending on rank.
The new salary structure is expected to take effect from September 1, 2026, following the President’s approval of the upward review of remuneration for military personnel.
Junior personnel to receive higher percentage increase
Under the approved structure, personnel in the lower ranks are expected to receive the largest percentage increase.
Reports indicate that private soldiers and sergeants will receive an 80 per cent increase, while personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will receive a 50 per cent increase.
Generals and officers from brigadier general and above will receive a 30 per cent increase.
Military wage bill to rise
The salary review is expected to substantially increase the Federal Government’s annual wage bill for the armed forces.
According to Channels Television, the annual wage bill is projected to rise from approximately N660 billion to N924 billion under the new structure.
The move comes amid continuing calls for improved welfare, remuneration and working conditions for members of the armed forces.
Defence welfare remains a major issue
The salary increase follows repeated calls for better welfare for Nigerian military personnel who are involved in counter-insurgency operations and other security assignments across the country.
The government has previously announced measures aimed at improving military welfare, including housing and other support programmes.
The latest salary review is therefore expected to form part of broader efforts to improve the welfare and morale of the armed forces.