BREAKING:Tinubu Approves 80% Salary Increase For Armed Forces Personnel

President Bola Tinubu has approved a sweeping salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with the new pay structure expected to take effect from September 1 and benefit about 250,000 military personnel nationwide.

The approval, announced on Tuesday in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, will raise the federal government’s annual wage bill for the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.

Under the revised salary structure, personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increase of up to 80 per cent. Officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will enjoy a 50 per cent pay rise, while senior officers above the rank of Colonel—including Brigadier-General, Major-General, Lieutenant-General and General—will receive a 30 per cent increase.

The Presidency described the salary review as one of the most significant welfare packages for military personnel in recent years, saying it underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of troops, particularly those engaged in frontline operations against insurgency, banditry and other security threats.

Tinubu said the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces must be rewarded with enhanced welfare, modern equipment and sustained investment in the nation’s security architecture.

“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.

He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to modernise the military by providing the weapons and technological capabilities required for effective operations.

“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 said.

The President urged military personnel to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for their commitment and sacrifice.

“I urge our servicemen and women to take this gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation for the services they render to our fatherland. Together, we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” Tinubu said.