MASSIVE PAY RISE: Tinibu Approves Up To 80% Salary Boost For Nigerian Military
ABUJA — In a major move to boost troop morale, President Bola Tinubu has approved a sweeping 30% to 80% salary increase for Nigeria’s armed forces.
The massive wage upgrade takes effect on September 1, 2026, directly impacting roughly 250,000 service members on the frontlines and across the federation.
The announcement, released by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, reveals a strategic pay structure designed to offer the biggest financial relief to junior officers confronting terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
The New Military Pay Breakdown
Junior ranks (Privates to Staff Sergeants) get the largest upgrade of 80%, while Mid-level officers (Warrant Officers up to Colonels) are to receive a 50% increase
The top brass (Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, and Generals) get a 30% bump.
This aggressive welfare push is expected to drive Nigeria’s annual military wage bill from N660 billion to a staggering N924 billion.
President Tinubu stated that the administration remains resolute in mobilising all military assets to crush security threats, noting that no nation can achieve greatness without safety.
“The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated,” Tinubu said, urging troops to see the historic gesture as deep national gratitude for their sacrifices.
