Tinubu Approves Military Salary Increase as Matawalle Announces Up to 80% Pay Rise

The Federal Government has approved a significant salary increase for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, with junior personnel receiving up to an 80 per cent pay rise, according to the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

Announcing the development in a statement on Tuesday, Matawalle applauded President Bola Tinubu for approving the new salary package, describing the decision as a major step toward improving the welfare and motivation of military personnel.

He said the salary review reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces and recognising the sacrifices of troops defending the country.

“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,” Matawalle said of President Tinubu.

The minister explained that the salary review had remained a priority since the beginning of the Tinubu administration and noted that he actively championed the proposal.

He disclosed that about 250,000 personnel would benefit from the revised pay structure, which is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2026.

Under the new arrangement:

• Personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent salary increase.
• Officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel will benefit from a 50 per cent increase.
• Senior officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-General, Major-General, Lieutenant-General and General, will receive a 30 per cent increase.

According to Matawalle, the pay review is part of wider government efforts to enhance troop welfare while supporting military operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.

Quoting President Tinubu, he said:

“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.”

The minister also said the Federal Government would continue modernising the Armed Forces by providing advanced weapons, equipment and technology to improve operational effectiveness.

He called on military personnel to see the salary increase as a mark of appreciation for their dedication and a renewed commitment to defending Nigeria.

“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,” Matawalle added.

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