Tinubu’s 30–80% Military Salary Increase Wins Commendation From Sentinel Security Advocacy

The Sentinel Security Advocacy Initiative has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for approving a significant salary increase for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the move as a major boost to troop welfare and national security.

In a statement signed by its Convener, Mallam Abubakar Yayale Usman, the group praised the Federal Government’s decision to implement the new salary structure from September 1, 2026, saying it reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel.

According to the group, the salary review, which ranges from 30 to 80 per cent depending on rank, demonstrates President Tinubu’s sustained support for the Armed Forces and the country’s broader security architecture.

The initiative noted that beyond improved remuneration, the administration has continued to invest in the procurement of modern military equipment, arms and ammunition to strengthen ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry and other security threats.

It added that the government’s investments have contributed to improved operational capacity and boosted the morale of troops engaged in security operations across the country.

The group also commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for fostering stronger collaboration among Nigeria’s security agencies and consistently advocating improved welfare for personnel, particularly those deployed to frontline operations.

According to the statement, Ribadu’s diplomatic engagements with the United States and other international partners have also facilitated the acquisition of critical military hardware needed to enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

Under the newly approved salary structure:

Officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier Generals, Major Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Officers from Colonel down to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase.

Rank-and-file personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.

The advocacy group noted that the adjustment would increase the Armed Forces’ annual salary bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, describing it as evidence of the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of personnel defending the country’s territorial integrity.

While welcoming the development, the group urged the Armed Forces and other security agencies to translate the improved welfare into enhanced operational performance.

It called on troops to intensify efforts against insurgency, banditry and other forms of violent crime, stressing that the salary increase should serve as a motivation to sustain ongoing security operations.

The organisation also appealed to the Federal Government to further improve the welfare of frontline personnel by significantly increasing operational allowances and ensuring adequate support for troops engaged in combat operations.

The Sentinel Security Advocacy Initiative reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.