250,000 Personnel to Benefit as Tinubu Approves New Salary Package for Armed Forces

President Bola Tinubu has approved a new salary package for armed forces personnel.

In a statement on Tuesday, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said the salary increase is between 30 and 80 per cent for the military personnel.

He added that about 250,000 personnel will benefit from the new deal, which will become effective from September 1.

Onanuga said under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of colonel will enjoy a 30 per cent salary increase. This applies to brigadier generals, major generals, lieutenant generals, and generals.

He added that personnel from colonel down to warrant officer will have a 50 per cent increase, while private to staff sergeant will have an 80 per cent increase.

The presidential aide noted that the pay package will increase the yearly salary bill for the country’s armed forces personnel from N660 billion to N924 billion.

“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 statement reads.

“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.”

On July 27, Christopher Musa, minister of defence, had said Tinubu would announce another salary increase for Nigerian soldiers.