The decision was in recognition of the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces in defending Nigeria against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats
By Moses Okorie
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a substantial salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with junior military personnel set to receive pay rises of up to 80 per cent under a new remuneration package aimed at improving troop welfare and strengthening the nation’s security architecture.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, will benefit about 250,000 officers and men of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, according to a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.
Under the approved package, personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase, while officers from Colonel to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent pay rise. Senior officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent increase.
The Presidency disclosed that the review would increase the Federal Government’s annual salary expenditure on the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, describing the move as part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel.
President Tinubu said the decision was in recognition of the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces in defending Nigeria against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
He stressed that military personnel deserve adequate support for the critical role they play in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety of citizens.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the military through sustained investment in modern weapons, equipment and technology, alongside improved welfare packages for personnel.
He noted that national development and economic growth can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and security, adding that his administration would continue to prioritise measures that enhance the effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
The President also pledged to mobilise all available military and law enforcement resources to eliminate security threats across the country and protect the lives and property of Nigerians.
He called on members of the Armed Forces to remain steadfast in their duties, assuring them that the salary review reflects the nation’s gratitude for their patriotism, professionalism and sacrifices.
The salary increase is expected to boost the morale of military personnel as the Armed Forces continue operations against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across various parts of the country.