Armed Forces Salary Increase: Move will boost troops’ morale – Defence Minister

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Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd)

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…Thanks Tinubu

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By Kingsley Omonobi

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By Kingsley Omonobi

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The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for approving a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the move as a major boost to troop morale.

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In a statement issued on Tuesday, the minister said the salary adjustment, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit about 250,000 military personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

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According to him, the new salary structure provides an 80 per cent increase for junior ranks, from Private to Staff Sergeant, a 50 per cent increase for middle-level personnel and non-commissioned officers, from Warrant Officer to Colonel, and a 30 per cent increase for senior military officers.

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General Musa described the approval as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel and strengthening the country’s security architecture.

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He said the increase in annual personnel costs from N660 billion to N924 billion underscores the administration’s resolve to support troops serving in various operational theatres across the country.

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According to the minister, the improved welfare package would motivate personnel to intensify efforts against insurgency in the North-East, as well as banditry, oil theft, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.

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He assured President Tinubu and Nigerians that the Armed Forces would reciprocate the gesture with renewed commitment, professionalism and greater operational effectiveness.

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“The Ministry of Defence charges all officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to see this substantial enhancement in their condition of service as a renewed call to duty,” he said.

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He urged personnel to redouble their efforts in neutralising security threats, protecting lives and property, and restoring peace and stability across the country.

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General Musa also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to modernise military equipment, strengthen technological capabilities and improve the welfare of service personnel and their families.

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