President Bola Tinubu has approved substantial salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 percent for members of Nigeria’s armed forces to boost morale and reinforce national security.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced in a statement on Tuesday that roughly 250,000 military personnel across various branches will benefit from the upgraded compensation package.
Scheduled to take effect on September 1, the new structure awards a 30 percent pay increase to senior officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals, and Generals.
Mid-level officers and non-commissioned leaders spanning from colonels down to warrant officers will receive a 50 percent bump, while lower-tier ranks from private to staff sergeant gain the maximum 80 percent boost.
The comprehensive raise is projected to elevate the country’s annual military payroll significantly from N660 billion to N924 billion.
Highlighting the administration’s stance on military support, the presidency emphasized that servicemen continuously risk their lives while confronting widespread banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency across the nation.
“The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation,” President Tinubu stated in the release.
Underscoring a commitment to military advancement, Tinubu added, “Our administration will continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the armed forces by providing the weapons and technological tools needed to discharge their duties.”
Reaffirming national resolve, the president concluded, “Our administration believes that no nation can achieve greatness without security. We therefore remain resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and protect the lives and property of all Nigerians. I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation.”
