MILITARY SALARY INCREASE WILL STRENGTHEN ANTI-INSURGENCY OPERATIONS – DEFENCE MINISTER
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By; Sunmola Ganiyat
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has praised President Bola Tinubu for approving a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of the Armed Forces, describing the decision as a major step toward improving troop welfare and enhancing military operations across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister described the pay review as a historic intervention that reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting military personnel.
Musa said the graduated salary structure demonstrates the President’s recognition of the sacrifices made by officers and soldiers who continue to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and maintain peace.
According to him, the increase in the Armed Forces’ annual personnel budget from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion is a clear demonstration of the government’s resolve to prioritise the welfare of troops.
He noted that the improved remuneration would ease the financial burden on military personnel while boosting morale and strengthening operations against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and crude oil theft across the country.
The Defence Minister assured Nigerians that the military would reciprocate the gesture with greater commitment, discipline and improved operational efficiency in tackling the nation’s security challenges.
He also urged officers and soldiers to see the salary increase as a renewed call to service by intensifying efforts to safeguard lives, protect national assets and restore peace in troubled areas.
Musa further reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s agenda of modernising military equipment, enhancing technological capabilities and improving the overall welfare of personnel and their families.
President Tinubu announced the salary review on Tuesday, stating that it was in recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 personnel across the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
Under the review, personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase, Warrant Officers to Colonels will enjoy a 50 per cent raise, while senior officers from Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent increase. The adjustment will raise the Armed Forces’ annual personnel cost from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
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