President Bola Tinubu has approved a major upward review of salaries for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent across various ranks in a move aimed at boosting troop welfare and morale.
The new salary structure, which will take effect from September 1, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel serving in the Army, Navy and Air Force.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the salary adjustment is structured according to rank.
Under the new arrangement, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer are to enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while those from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest adjustment of 80 per cent.
The federal government said the revised salary package would increase the annual wage bill for members of the armed forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.
President Tinubu said the pay review reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in tackling insecurity across the country.
He commended members of the armed forces for their courage in confronting banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other security threats, noting that they deserve adequate support while carrying 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 president said.
Tinubu assured that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of troops while strengthening the nation’s security architecture through the acquisition of modern weapons and advanced technological equipment.
He stressed that security remains central to national development, saying no country can attain greatness without ensuring 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 stated.
The president also urged military personnel to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their dedication and service to the nation.
“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,” he added.
The latest salary review is one of the most significant welfare interventions for Nigeria’s armed forces in recent years as the government intensifies efforts to combat insurgency, banditry and other security challenges across the country.
