Tinubu approves 30% to 80% salary increase for 250,000 military personnel

President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of 30% to 80% for approximately 250,000 active military personnel. The new pay structure, announced by the State House on August 4, 2026, takes effect on September 1, 2026.

Junior soldiers receive the largest percentage hikes, with the review aimed at boosting troop morale amid ongoing security challenges.

New salary structure

The salary review is divided into three categories. Personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant get an 80% increase. Officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel get a 50% increase. Senior officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals, and Generals, get a 30% increase.

The tiered structure gives greater financial support to lower-ranking soldiers who bear much of the operational burden in conflict zones. The revised structure covers the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Cost to the Federal Government

Before the adjustment, Nigeria's yearly military wage bill stood at approximately ₦660 billion. With the new salary package, the figure will rise to ₦924 billion. That represents an additional ₦264 billion in annual spending.

Officials said the increased allocation shows the administration's commitment to improving the welfare of Armed Forces members and strengthening national security.

Context and reactions

The approval comes as the military continues sustained operations against insurgency, terrorism, armed banditry, oil theft, and kidnapping. Security analysts have argued that improved remuneration can boost motivation, enhance operational effectiveness, and aid retention.

For many lower-rank personnel, the increase is expected to provide much-needed relief amid rising living costs and to serve as recognition of sacrifices made in protecting lives and property.

Meanwhile, military veterans are demanding the immediate implementation of a N250,000 minimum wage for serving soldiers. They have warned of a peaceful protest outside the Federal Ministry of Finance to draw attention to their demands.

What it means

The pay rise puts more money in the pockets of 250,000 service members, which could lift consumer spending. But it also raises the federal wage bill by ₦264 billion a year, adding to government expenditure as Nigeria battles economic pressures.