President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant salary increase for about 250,000 members of the Armed Forces, a move the Federal Government says is aimed at improving troop welfare and strengthening the country’s security response. Announced on Tuesday, the new pay structure will take effect from September 1, 2026, with the largest percentage increases going to junior personnel.

Under the revised salary structure, soldiers from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase in pay. Warrant officers up to colonels will earn 50 per cent more, while brigadier-generals through to generals will receive a 30 per cent increase. The adjustment raises the military’s annual wage bill from N660 billion to N924 billion.

According to the Presidency, the decision reflects the administration’s recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel in ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the graduated structure was deliberately designed to provide the greatest relief to lower-ranking service members.

President Tinubu said improving the welfare of troops remains central to his administration’s security strategy. He added that beyond higher salaries, the government would continue efforts to modernise the Armed Forces by providing improved weapons and technological capabilities to support military operations across the country.

The announcement has received positive reactions from retired senior military officers, who described the salary review as a morale booster capable of enhancing commitment, recruitment and operational effectiveness. They, however, stressed that improved remuneration should be accompanied by sustained investment in military equipment, logistics, accommodation, healthcare and other welfare programmes.

Among serving personnel, the development was welcomed with cautious optimism. Some soldiers said the true impact of the policy would depend on its implementation, noting that confidence would grow once the revised salaries begin reflecting in their monthly earnings as scheduled.

The Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, also commended the approval, describing it as a major investment in the welfare of the Armed Forces. He assured the President that the military would respond with greater dedication and professionalism, while reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting the modernisation of the Armed Forces and improving conditions for personnel and their families.