Military Personnel To Earn More As Tinubu Approves Sweeping Salary Increase
By JOANNA ILUSANMI
Salary Review Targets Troop Welfare
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, raising military pay by between 30 and 80 per cent across different ranks.
The new package takes effect from 1st September and is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel nationwide.
Under the revised structure, personnel from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase. Officers from colonel to warrant officer will receive a 50 per cent increase, while officers above the rank of colonel will enjoy a 30 per cent adjustment.
The review will raise the monthly earnings of the lowest-paid private to about ₦187,000, compared to about ₦104,000 under the previous structure. Lance corporals are expected to earn about ₦211,000 monthly, while sergeants will receive at least ₦216,000. A major’s monthly salary is projected to rise to about ₦540,000, although final earnings will depend on service conditions and allowances.
The annual military wage bill will increase from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion following the implementation of the new pay package.
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Security
President Tinubu said the salary review reflects his administration’s determination to improve troop welfare in recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel in combating insurgency, terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
He said no nation can achieve lasting development without security and pledged continued investment in modern weapons, technology and operational support for the Armed Forces.
The President urged military personnel to remain committed to defending the country, assuring them that their service and sacrifices are valued.
Labour, Lawmakers Welcome Decision
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) welcomed the salary adjustment, describing it as a positive step toward improving workers’ welfare.
However, the labour body called for fairness in wage implementation across the public service. It also expressed concern that some junior military personnel were reportedly yet to fully benefit from the national minimum wage.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, also praised the salary review.
They said the improved remuneration would strengthen troop morale, boost operational effectiveness and demonstrate the government’s appreciation for the Armed Forces.
Experts Call for Broader Welfare Reforms
Security experts described the salary increase as a significant intervention but argued that better welfare should extend beyond wages.
Retired police officer and security analyst Iyke Odife said improved remuneration would motivate personnel and strengthen national security.
Retired NSCDC Assistant Commandant-General Edwin Ugwuja urged the Federal Government to review the salaries of other security agencies, noting that they also perform dangerous duties that deserve improved welfare and compensation.
