Africa: All of Africa Today - August 5, 2026

Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Pay Rise for Nigerian Troops President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase of between 30% and 80% for about 250,000 members of Nigeria's Armed Forces, effective from 1 September. The move is expected to increase the military's annual wage bill by N264 billion, from N660 billion to N924 billion. Junior soldiers, from private to staff sergeant, will receive the highest increase of 80%, while personnel from colonel to warrant officer will get 50%, and senior officers above colonel will receive 30%. The government said the pay rise is part of broader efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen military operations as security forces continue to combat insurgency, banditry and kidnapping across the country. Tinubu said the increase recognises the sacrifices o