Tinubu approves military salary increases

President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant upward review of salaries for personnel of the Nigeria — Nigerian Armed Forces, with increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent. The new salary structure, effective from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel. Under the approved structure, officers above the rank of Colonel will receive a 30 per cent increase, personnel from Colonel down to Warrant Officer a 50 per cent increase, and junior personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant an 80 per cent increase. The implementation will increase the Federal Government's annual wage bill for the armed forces from N660 billion to approximately N924 billion. The approval was announced in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to troop welfare and modernising the armed forces, stating that the salary increase demonstrates the nation's appreciation for the sacrifices of military personnel. The move comes amid ongoing counter-terrorism, anti-banditry, and anti-kidnapping operations across Nigeria.