President Bola Tinubu has approved a 30% to 80% salary increase for approximately 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with the new pay structure scheduled to take effect from September 1, 2026.
The pay review, one of the largest in recent years for military personnel, is expected to increase the annual military wage bill from about ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, reflecting the administration’s effort to improve the welfare of service members amid ongoing security operations across the country.
According to government officials, the new salary structure will apply across the Army, Navy and Air Force, with the percentage increase varying by rank and service category. Junior personnel are expected to receive the highest percentage increases as part of efforts to improve living standards and boost morale.
The Presidency said the decision recognizes the sacrifices made by military personnel combating insurgency, banditry, terrorism, oil theft and other security threats across Nigeria. Officials added that improved remuneration is expected to enhance motivation, strengthen retention and make military careers more attractive.
The revised pay package forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving the welfare of members of the armed forces. In recent months, the Federal Government has also announced measures targeting better housing, healthcare, insurance coverage and operational support for military personnel.
Defence officials welcomed the approval, describing it as a significant boost for troops serving in difficult operational environments. They said improved welfare remains critical to maintaining the effectiveness and professionalism of the armed forces.
Economic analysts noted that while the salary increase will place additional pressure on government expenditure, it could also improve troop morale and operational readiness at a time when Nigeria continues to confront multiple security challenges across several regions.
The increase comes as the military remains heavily engaged in counter-insurgency operations in the North-East, anti-banditry campaigns in the North-West, efforts to combat oil theft in the Niger Delta and security operations in other parts of the country.
The new salary structure is expected to be implemented from September 1, with the Ministry of Defence, the Armed Forces and relevant government agencies expected to issue detailed salary scales and implementation guidelines before the effective date.
