President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of Nigeria’s armed forces, with the new pay taking effect from September 1.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday. He said about 250,000 military personnel will benefit from the new salary structure.
According to the statement, officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will receive a 50 per cent increase, while those from private to staff sergeant will enjoy an 80 per cent salary increase.
Onanuga said President Tinubu recognises the courage and sacrifices of members of the armed forces as they continue to fight banditry, kidnapping and terrorism in different parts of the country.
He added that the new salary package will increase the annual wage bill for the armed forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
The statement read, “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.”
