A new dawn: Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Soldiers

A wave of excitement is expected across military formations nationwide following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of a major salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with junior soldiers emerging as the biggest beneficiaries of the new package.

The salary review, announced on Tuesday, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel and is scheduled to take effect from September 1.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that the approved increment ranges from 30 to 80 per cent, depending on rank, in what is being described as one of the most significant welfare interventions for military personnel in recent years.

Under the new structure, officers above the rank of Colonel—including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals will receive a 30 per cent increase in their salaries.

Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer are set to enjoy a 50 per cent pay rise, while soldiers from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase, making them the highest beneficiaries of the wage adjustment.

The salary enhancement will push the military’s annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to improving the welfare of troops engaged in the fight against insecurity across the country.

According to the Presidency, the decision was informed by the sacrifices being made daily by members of the armed forces in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities threatening national security.

Advertisement

President Tinubu said military personnel deserve adequate support and recognition for their dedication to protecting lives and property across the country.

“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 commitment to prioritising troop welfare while continuing efforts to modernise the armed forces through improved equipment, advanced technology and enhanced operational capabilities.

Tinubu stressed that security remains the foundation for national development, noting that no country can achieve meaningful progress without peace and stability.

He also assured Nigerians that the government would continue to mobilise military and law enforcement assets to tackle security threats and safeguard communities.

The President urged service personnel to see the salary increase as a reflection of the government’s appreciation for their patriotism and sacrifices, expressing confidence that the gesture would further strengthen morale among troops and boost ongoing efforts to secure the nation.

The announcement is expected to be welcomed by military personnel and their families, many of whom have long advocated improved welfare and better working conditions for those serving on the frontlines of Nigeria’s security challenges.