The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving what he described as a historic salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying the decision demonstrates the administration’s commitment to improving troop welfare and strengthening national security. The new salary structure is expected to take effect from September 1, 2026, and will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the minister expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving salary increments ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for officers and soldiers across different ranks. He described the development as a major milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance the welfare, morale and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
According to the approved structure, personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase. Officers and non-commissioned officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will benefit from a 50 per cent increment, while senior officers above the rank of Colonel will receive a 30 per cent increase. The revised salary package is expected to significantly improve the earnings of military personnel serving across the country.
The minister noted that improving the welfare of service personnel remains essential to sustaining professionalism, discipline and commitment within the Armed Forces. He said better remuneration would motivate troops who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats in different parts of Nigeria.
He further stated that the Tinubu administration has consistently prioritised military welfare through improved funding, equipment acquisition and reforms aimed at modernising the nation’s security architecture. According to him, the latest salary review reflects the government’s recognition of the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and citizens.
The Federal Government recently announced that the new salary package would increase the Armed Forces’ annual wage bill from about ₦660 billion to approximately ₦924 billion. Officials said the investment underscores the administration’s determination to improve troop welfare while strengthening the country’s security institutions.
Security analysts have welcomed the salary review, noting that competitive remuneration can improve morale and contribute to higher operational efficiency. They also stressed that sustained investment in modern equipment, intelligence gathering, training and logistics remains crucial to addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
Nigeria continues to face multiple security threats, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in parts of the North-West, kidnapping across several regions and other violent crimes. Observers believe that improving the welfare of military personnel is one component of broader efforts needed to enhance national security and support ongoing military operations.
Stakeholders have also applauded the Federal Government’s decision while urging continued investment in housing, healthcare, education and other welfare programmes for serving personnel, veterans and the families of fallen heroes. They argue that comprehensive welfare policies will further strengthen the morale and effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
As the new salary structure takes effect in September, military personnel across the country are expected to benefit from one of the most significant pay reviews in recent years. Government officials have expressed confidence that the measure will boost operational readiness, reward the sacrifices of service members and reinforce the Armed Forces’ capacity to tackle Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
