The measures come as the government intensifies efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping and terrorism….reports Africa Daily News Desk
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of the country’s armed forces, benefiting around 250,000 personnel as part of efforts to improve troop welfare amid ongoing security challenges.
The revised pay structure, which takes effect from September 1, will see officers above the rank of colonel, including brigadier-generals, major-generals, lieutenant-generals and generals, receive a 30 per cent salary increase.
Personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will receive a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from private to staff sergeant will see their salaries rise by 80 per cent.
The pay revision will increase the armed forces’ annual wage bill from 660 billion naira to 924 billion naira.
Tinubu said his administration remained committed to supporting military personnel confronting banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.
“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.
“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.”
The President urged military personnel to view the salary increase as recognition of their service and dedication to the country.
The announcement came as Tinubu welcomed the rescue of 308 people who had been abducted in separate attacks in Niger and Kwara states.
According to the presidency, 163 of those rescued had been kidnapped from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while another 145 victims were rescued in Niger State.
The operation was carried out in the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in Niger State by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), with support from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
The government described it as the largest single-day rescue operation conducted by the joint security team.
“The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services. I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives,” Tinubu said.
The rescued victims are receiving medical treatment and first aid at Wawa Cantonment before being reunited with their families through their respective state governments.
While welcoming the successful operation, Tinubu directed security agencies to strengthen early warning systems, improve intelligence gathering at community level and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent future abductions.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace across Nigeria.
