…Urge troops to double efforts
Andrew Orolu
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd),and the Minister of State for Defence Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, yesterday expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a historic 30 to 80 percent salary increment for Nigerian’s armed forces personnel.
Both ministers in a separate
statements on Wednesday described the Nigerian Armed Forces personnel salary increases from 30 to 80 percent as landmark gesture and historic.
General Musa said the salary increases “which takes effect from September 1, 2026, directly impacts approximately 250,000 personnel across all services.
Unfolding the package on Tuesday President Tinubu said that the strategic structuring of the package, yielding an 80 percent boost for junior ranks (Private to Staff Sergeant), a 50 percent increase for middle-tier officers and non-commissioned officers (Warrant Officer to Colonel), and a 30 percent increase for senior military leadership demonstrates an exemplary commitment to prioritising the operational welfare of frontline troops.
Reacting to the announcement, the Minister described the presidential directive as a decisive morale booster that reinforces the administration’s dedicated vision for security sector reform.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has once again demonstrated unwavering leadership and empathy for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line daily to preserve the peace and territorial integrity of our nation. By raising the annual personnel cost from N660 billion to N924 billion, the President has matched words with concrete action, proving that the welfare of our troops remains paramount,” said General Musa.
“This subversion of financial hardship for our officers and soldiers will resonate across every theatre of operation; from those confronting insurgency in the North East to troops tackling banditry, oil theft, and kidnapping across the country.
“On behalf of the entire defence structure, we assure Mr. President and the Nigerian public that this gesture will be met with renewed vigour, uncompromising discipline, and heightened operational effectiveness.”
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.
Troops are urged to redouble their efforts in neutralising all national security threats, safeguarding civilian lives, and restoring total stability across every corner of the country.
The Minister re-affirmed the ministry’s commitment to aligning with President Tinubu’s mandate to continuously modernise equipment, enhance technological capacity, and elevate the standard of living for Nigeria’s military personnel and their families.
On his part, the Minister of State for Defence Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle
disclosed that the issue of Armed Forces’ salary review had been on the front burner since the inception of the present administration, and that he had personally championed the cause within government circles.
He thanked Mr. President for his visionary leadership, steadfast advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of military personnel, which he said contributed immensely to this remarkable achievement.
“It is a clear reflection of your passion for building a motivated, resilient, and highly professional Armed Forces capable of effectively addressing Nigeria’s security challenges,” he stated.
“May the Almighty God continue to grant you divine wisdom, strength, sound health, and greater accomplishments as you faithfully provide positive leadership for the nation. May the Armed Forces of Nigeria continue to grow in capacity, professionalism, unity, and victory under your leadership,” the Minister prayed.
He urged members of the Armed Forces to regard the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and sacrifices.
“I urge our servicemen to take this 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,” he added.
He added that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise troop welfare while modernising the Armed Forces through the provision of weapons and technological tools required to effectively discharge their duties.