President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, granting pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent in a move aimed at boosting troop welfare and strengthening the country’s security architecture.
The approval, announced in a statement on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across various ranks.
According to the statement, the new salary structure will take effect from September 1, with senior officers above the rank of Colonel receiving a 30 per cent increase. The category includes Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals.
Officers from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will receive a 50 per cent salary increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant – the largest segment of the military workforce – will enjoy an 80 per cent increment.
The Federal Government said the revised remuneration package would increase the annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, the Presidency said the salary adjustment reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
According to the statement, the administration remains committed to providing members of the Armed Forces with the support, motivation and resources required to effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
“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 statement quoted the President as saying.
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to modernise the Armed Forces through improved welfare, enhanced weaponry and advanced technological equipment.
“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,” he said.
The President stressed that security remains central to national development, noting that no country can attain sustainable progress without guaranteeing the safety of lives and property.
“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 added.
Tinubu urged military personnel to view the salary increase as an expression of the nation’s gratitude for their service and dedication, expressing confidence that the Armed Forces would continue to overcome those threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability.
“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,” the statement concluded.
