By Ahmed Yusuf | National News
Nigeria’s annual military wage bill is set to rise sharply from N660 billion to N924 billion following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of a new salary structure for about 250,000 personnel of the Armed Forces.
The salary adjustment, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will increase the Federal Government’s annual personnel expenditure on the military by N264 billion, representing one of the most significant investments in troop welfare under the current administration.
Under the new pay structure announced by the Presidency, junior personnel will receive the highest salary adjustments. Soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will enjoy an 80 per cent increase, officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will receive 50 per cent, while Brigadier Generals to Generals will benefit from a 30 per cent increase.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the salary review reflects the administration’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
President Tinubu said his administration remains committed to improving troop welfare while strengthening the Armed Forces with modern weapons and technological capabilities.
“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 added that national security remains central to his administration’s development agenda, stressing that a secure nation is essential for sustainable growth.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), described the increase as a major boost to troop morale, saying it would ease financial pressures on personnel serving in conflict zones and improve operational effectiveness.
Retired military officers also welcomed the development, describing it as long overdue. They, however, urged the Federal Government to complement the salary review with modern military hardware, improved logistics, healthcare, accommodation and prompt implementation.
Serving military personnel expressed cautious optimism, noting that while the announcement was encouraging, they would reserve celebrations until the new salaries are reflected in their bank accounts.
Lawmakers equally praised the development. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Ahmad Lawan, said the increased wage bill demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces and enhancing national security.
The revised salary structure comes amid renewed efforts by the Federal Government to modernise the military and improve its capacity to respond to evolving security challenges nationwide.
