Defence Minister Hails Tinubu Over Historic Military Salary Increase, Urges Troops to Renew Commitment

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving what he described as a historic salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying the move reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister expressed appreciation to the President on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the nation’s military establishment for approving a salary increment ranging from 30 to 80 per cent.

The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, is expected to benefit approximately 250,000 personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

According to the ministry, the salary review provides an 80 per cent increase for junior personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant, a 50 per cent increment for middle-level officers and non-commissioned officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel, and a 30 per cent increase for senior military officers.

General Musa described the presidential approval as a significant morale booster that would strengthen ongoing security operations across the country.

He said President Tinubu had once again demonstrated strong leadership and concern for the welfare of troops who continue to risk their lives in defence of the nation’s sovereignty and security.

The minister noted that the increase in the annual military personnel budget from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion underscores the administration’s resolve to match its promises with concrete action.

According to him, the improved welfare package would help ease the financial burden on officers and soldiers serving in various theatres of operation, including those combating insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, crude oil theft in the Niger Delta and kidnapping across the country.

General Musa assured the President and Nigerians that the gesture would inspire greater commitment, professionalism and operational effectiveness among troops.

He urged officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces to regard the improved conditions of service as a renewed call to duty and to intensify efforts toward defeating all forms of insecurity, protecting lives and property, and restoring lasting peace nationwide.

The minister also reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s agenda of modernising the military through improved equipment, enhanced technological capabilities and better welfare for personnel and their families.