The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has described the newly approved salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as a clear demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unwavering commitment to national security and the welfare of military personnel.
According to an official statement signed by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the Minister said the landmark salary package, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, is a strategic investment that will strengthen troop morale and enhance the Armed Forces’ capacity to tackle security challenges across the country.
The statement noted that the salary increment, ranging from 30 to 80 per cent, will benefit about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force. Under the new structure, junior ranks from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase, middle-level officers and non-commissioned officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while senior military officers will receive a 30 per cent raise.
General Musa said the President had once again demonstrated exceptional leadership by backing his administration’s security agenda with concrete action aimed at improving the welfare of troops serving on the frontlines.
He noted that the increase in the Armed Forces’ annual personnel cost from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion reflects the Federal Government’s determination to provide the resources needed to sustain military operations and improve the living conditions of service personnel.
The Minister said the improved remuneration would serve as a powerful motivation for troops deployed in various theatres of operation, including counter-insurgency operations in the North-East, anti-banditry operations in the North-West, the fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta and other internal security operations nationwide.
He expressed confidence that the gesture would inspire greater dedication, professionalism and operational effectiveness among officers and soldiers in their efforts to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty and safeguard the lives and property of citizens.
General Musa also called on personnel of the Armed Forces to regard the enhanced welfare package as a renewed call to duty by intensifying efforts to eliminate security threats and consolidate peace across the country.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s vision of building a modern and well-equipped military through sustained investment in personnel welfare, advanced technology and improved operational capabilities.
