Senators representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), under the aegis of the Northern Senators Forum (NSF), have officially commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following his landmark approval of a 30% to 80% salary increase for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The commendation was issued via formal statements in Abuja on Tuesday night, August 4, 2026, following an executive announcement by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
The approved remuneration package introduces a graduated pay raise designed to boost troop morale and support personnel on the frontlines battling terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
Implementation of new salary Takes effect on September 1, 2026. It covers approximately 250,000 personnel across all service branches. 80% Increase for Junior combatants (Private to Staff Sergeant), 50% Increase for Mid-level personnel (Warrant Officer to Colonel) and a 30% Increase for Senior officers (Brigadier-General to General).
This will automatically Increase the annual military wage bill by ₦264 billion, rising from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion.
Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central). Chairman, Northern Senators Forum & Chairman, Senate Committee on Army; “I heartily thank His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving significant salary increases… This timely intervention is a clear demonstration of Mr. President’s deep appreciation for the courage, patriotism, and sacrifices of those who keep our nation safe.”
Senator Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe North), Former Senate President & Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence ; “This decisive executive action is a masterstroke of compassionate and strategic leadership. The 80% pay rise for our junior combatants represents a renewed covenant of care for those who bear the heaviest physical toll of asymmetric warfare.”
While praising the executive action, lawmakers urged the leadership of the Armed Forces to respond with enhanced operational efficiency and eliminate inter-service rivalry to ensure total victory over security threats across the North East, North West, and the nation at large.
