Tinubu’s 30–80% military pay raise will boost troop morale, says Defence Minister

Stanley Ihedigbo

Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving what he described as a historic salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying the move demonstrates the administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.

The minister, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the entire military establishment, expressed profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for approving a salary increment ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for officers and soldiers across all branches of the military.

According to a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the new salary structure will take effect from September 1, 2026, and is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel nationwide.

The statement explained that under the new salary package, junior-ranked personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent, while middle-level officers and non-commissioned officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will enjoy a 50 per cent increment. Senior military officers will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

General Musa described the salary review as a significant morale booster that would strengthen the resolve of troops engaged in various security operations across the country.

He said President Tinubu had once again demonstrated exceptional leadership and concern for the welfare of the nation’s armed forces by matching his administration’s commitment to security with concrete action.

According to him, the decision to increase the annual personnel cost of the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion reflects the President’s determination to ensure that officers and soldiers receive improved welfare while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

The Defence Minister noted that the improved remuneration would help ease the financial burden faced by military personnel and enhance their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He said the impact of the salary increase would be felt by troops deployed in different theatres of operation, including those combating insurgency in the North-East, fighting banditry in the North-West, tackling kidnapping across the country, and confronting oil theft and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta.

General Musa assured the President and Nigerians that the military would reciprocate the government’s gesture through greater dedication, professionalism, discipline, and enhanced operational effectiveness in the discharge of its duties.

He urged officers and men of the Armed Forces to regard the improved conditions of service as a renewed call to greater patriotism and commitment to national service.

The minister charged troops to intensify efforts towards neutralising all security threats, protecting the lives and property of citizens, and restoring lasting peace and stability across the country.

General Musa further reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s security agenda through sustained investments in modern military equipment, improved technological capabilities, and better welfare packages for serving personnel and their families.

He said the ministry would continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture while ensuring that members of the Armed Forces are adequately motivated to perform their constitutional responsibilities effectively.

The Defence Minister expressed confidence that the landmark salary review would significantly boost the morale of troops and further enhance the operational capacity of the Armed Forces in addressing the nation’s evolving security challenges.