Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Pay Rise for Armed Forces, Wage Bill Rises to N924 Billion

President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The new structure takes effect from 1 September 2026. It raises the annual military salary bill from N660 billion to N924 billion.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, officers above the rank of colonel will receive a 30 per cent increase.

Personnel from colonel to warrant officer will get a 50 per cent rise. Soldiers from private to staff sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.

President Tinubu said the review recognises the sacrifices of Armed Forces members in confronting banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

“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.

The largest increases go to the junior ranks who form the bulk of frontline troops. This is expected to boost morale among those who face the highest operational risks while protecting communities across the country.

The move follows the recent expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and approval for the recruitment of additional personnel.

𝗦𝗘𝗘 𝗩𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗢𝗦/𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦...