•Approves 30% raise for Generals

By BONIFACE AKARAH

President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with about 250,000 military personnel expected to benefit from the new remuneration package beginning September 1.

The approval was announced in a statement on Tuesday by the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the new salary structure is aimed at improving the welfare of military personnel serving across the country.

According to the statement, officers above the rank of colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Personnel from the rank of colonel down to warrant officer will enjoy a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent pay rise.

The Presidency said the new package would increase the annual salary bill for members of the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.

President Tinubu said the salary adjustment reflected his administration's commitment to recognising the sacrifices of military personnel engaged in the fight against insecurity 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," the President said.

He assured that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise the welfare of troops while strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces.

"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," Tinubu said.

The President also urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the nation's appreciation for their service and dedication.

"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," he added.