About 250,000 armed forces personnel will begin earning higher salaries from September 1 after President Bola Tinubu approved pay increases of between 30 and 80 per cent across all ranks.
The salary review is aimed at improving troop welfare and boosting morale as the armed forces continue to confront banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other security challenges across the country.
The approval was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of colonel will receive a 30 per cent salary increase, while personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase.
Those from the rank of private to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase under the new pay structure.
The new package will increase the annual salary bill for armed forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion.
According to President Tinubu, the welfare of military personnel remained a priority, noting that those responsible for securing the country must be adequately supported.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He added that his administration would continue to modernise the armed forces by providing the necessary weapons and technological tools to enhance their operations.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu urged members of the armed forces to see the pay increase as a demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for their sacrifices, assuring them of continued government support.