President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with about 250,000 officers and soldiers expected to benefit from the new pay package.

The approval was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

According to the statement, the new salary structure will take effect from September 1, 2026.

Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Officers from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.

The statement added that the new salary package will raise the annual wage bill for the country's armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.

President Tinubu said the salary review underscores his administration's commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in the fight against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

"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.

He 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."

The President further stated, "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."

Tinubu urged members of the armed forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government's appreciation for their service, urging them to accept the gesture as a sign of the government's deep appreciation for the services they render to the nation.