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Former Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (retd.) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a new salary structure for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the decision as a timely intervention that will enhance troop morale and strengthen national security.
Buratai, in a statement on Wednesday, praised the President for approving the salary increases, which will take effect from September 1, 2026.
The former Army Chief, who commanded troops in the North-East and other parts of the country, said he understands the enormous sacrifices made daily by military personnel in defending Nigeria against terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
According to him, “I know firsthand the immense sacrifices our troops endure daily in defence of the nation. The President’s approval of the new salary structure is a most timely intervention that recognises their dedication and commitment.”
Buratai noted that the approved salary adjustments—30 per cent for senior officers, 50 per cent for mid-level officers and 80 per cent for junior personnel—reflect strategic leadership and a clear appreciation of the realities of military service.
“The structured increase demonstrates strategic wisdom. By granting the highest increment to frontline soldiers, Mr. President has directly acknowledged those who bear the brunt of asymmetric warfare against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism,” he said.
He added that the salary review would significantly improve the morale and welfare of about 250,000 personnel of the Armed Forces.
Buratai also applauded President Tinubu’s commitment to modernising the military through investment in advanced technology, saying the administration had demonstrated its resolve to strengthen the nation’s security architecture.
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He described the increase in the Armed Forces’ annual salary bill from N660 billion to N924 billion as “a bold investment in national security.”
“This reflects an administration that truly understands that no nation can achieve greatness without security,” he stated.
The retired military chief urged serving officers and soldiers to reciprocate the government’s gesture with greater dedication, professionalism and patriotism.
“I urge my former comrades-in-arms to accept this gesture with gratitude and renewed commitment to duty. This increment should catalyse greater professionalism, discipline and patriotism in the Armed Forces,” Buratai said.
He stressed that despite the persistence of terrorism, banditry and other security challenges, the Armed Forces remain determined to protect the country’s territorial integrity.
“While the enemies of our nation remain relentless, with this governmental support, the Armed Forces remain undaunted in their resolve to defend Nigeria,” he added.
Buratai further commended President Tinubu for translating his appreciation of members of the Armed Forces into concrete policy, expressing optimism that the new welfare package would usher in a new era of operational success for the military.
“President Tinubu has translated his appreciation of the nation’s heroes into tangible policy. I am confident this landmark gesture will usher in a new era of victory, renewed commitment and greater achievements for the Nigerian Armed Forces,” he said.
