The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has praised President Bola Tinubu for approving a new salary structure for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the move as a major boost to the welfare, morale, and operational effectiveness of military personnel.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Matawalle described the salary increase as a landmark decision that demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the lives of the country’s servicemen and women who continue to defend Nigeria against various security threats.
According to the minister, the salary review has remained one of the administration’s key priorities since President Tinubu assumed office. He disclosed that he actively championed the initiative within government, stressing that the approval represents a significant achievement for the nation’s armed forces.
Matawalle expressed appreciation to the President for what he described as courageous leadership and unwavering dedication to the welfare of military personnel.
He stated that the salary adjustment reflects the administration’s determination to build a well-motivated, disciplined, and highly professional military capable of tackling terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other security challenges confronting the country.
The minister revealed that approximately 250,000 personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria will benefit from the new salary package, which is scheduled to take effect from September 1, 2026.
Breakdown of the Salary Increase
Under the newly approved structure:
- 80 percent increase for junior personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant.
- 50 percent increase for mid-level officers from Warrant Officer to Colonel.
- 30 percent increase for senior officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-General, Major-General, Lieutenant-General, and General.
Matawalle explained that the salary adjustment forms part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to cushion the economic pressures faced by military personnel who are actively engaged in safeguarding the nation.
He noted that the improved remuneration acknowledges the sacrifices made daily by troops operating in difficult and dangerous environments across the country.
Quoting President Tinubu, the minister 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.”
Beyond the salary review, Matawalle assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening the Armed Forces through continuous investment in modern military hardware, advanced technology, and improved operational equipment.
He said the administration would continue to provide the military with the necessary resources needed to effectively combat criminal activities and enhance national security.
The minister also urged officers and soldiers to respond positively to the government’s gesture by displaying greater commitment, professionalism, and patriotism in the discharge of their duties.
According to him, the salary increase should serve as motivation for troops to intensify their efforts in defending the nation’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of citizens.
“I urge our servicemen to take this gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation for the services they render to our fatherland. Together, we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” Matawalle stated.
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