Nigeria Approves Up to 80% Pay Rise for 250,000 Military Personnel

President Tinubu approved a tiered pay increase for roughly 250,000 armed forces personnel, effective September 1, 2026. Junior ranks (privates to staff sergeants) receive an 80% rise; warrant officers to colonels 50%; generals 30%. The annual wage bill rises from $484m to $678m. Retired Major General Bashir Galma warned future administrations may struggle to sustain the funding.