Nigeria to spend N924bn on Army, Navy, Air Force personnel’s salary

The Federal Government of Nigeria is to spend N924 billion yearly as salary bill for the country’s armed forces personnel.

Nigeria has about 250,000 Army, Navy and Air Force personnel.

The new pay package approved on Tuesday August 4, 2026 by President Bola Tinubu increased the military personnel’s salary from N660 billion to N924 billion.

The president approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for the armed forces personnel.

Under the new arrangement, which becomes effective from September 1, officers above the rank of colonel will enjoy a 30 per cent salary increase. This applies to Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals.

Personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will have a 50 per cent increase, while Private to Staff Sergeant will have an 80 per cent increase.

Tinubu approves up to 80% salary increase for armed forces personnel

Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement said Tinubu has always praised the courage and sacrifices of members of the armed forces as they confront the scourge of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism in some parts of the country.

His words: “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.

“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.

“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.

“I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation.”

The Star