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- Military And Defence
- Para-Military Guide
- Nigeria
Dss/Sss Salary & Ranks For Entry-Level Personnel: Bsc, Hnd, Ond & Ssce Holders In 2025
The Department of State Services (DSS) — also known as the State Security Service (SSS) — is one of Nigeria’s top intelligence agencies. Many Nigerians want to join the DSS, but one of the first questions they ask is:
“How much does DSS pay entry-level staff?”
“What rank will I start with if I have BSc, HND, OND, or SSCE?”
This 2025 guide gives you all the verified information about:
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DSS entry-level salary by qualification
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Starting ranks for BSc, HND, OND & SSCE
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Benefits and allowances for new recruits
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What to expect when you join DSS
DSS Entry-Level Ranks by Qualification
The DSS assigns ranks based on your educational qualification at the point of recruitment.
| Qualification | Likely Entry Rank |
|---|---|
| SSCE / NECO | Detective Assistant (DA) |
| OND | Detective Inspector (DI) |
| HND | Security Officer II (SO II) |
| BSc / BA | Security Officer II (SO II) |
| MSc / PGD | Security Officer I or above |
DSS Entry-Level Salary in 2025
Salaries are paid monthly and include basic pay and allowances (housing, hazard, uniform, etc.). Below is the estimated salary structure for new recruits based on their qualification:
| Qualification | Monthly Salary (₦) | Annual Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| SSCE / NECO | ₦90,000 – ₦120,000 | ₦1,080,000 – ₦1,440,000 |
| OND | ₦150,000 – ₦180,000 | ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,160,000 |
| HND | ₦210,000 – ₦260,000 | ₦2,520,000 – ₦3,120,000 |
| BSc / BA | ₦210,000 – ₦260,000 | ₦2,520,000 – ₦3,120,000 |
| MSc / PGD | ₦260,000 – ₦310,000 | ₦3,120,000 – ₦3,720,000 |
Note: Salaries may vary slightly depending on location, posting, and extra responsibilities.
Allowances for Entry-Level DSS Officers
In addition to their base salary, new officers receive the following allowances:
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Housing allowance
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Uniform allowance
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Transport allowance
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Hazard allowance
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Intelligence & operational bonuses (for field agents)
Summary of DSS Entry-Level Roles
| Rank | Duties |
|---|---|
| Detective Assistant (DA) | Performs support tasks and field surveillance (SSCE holders) |
| Detective Inspector (DI) | Manages junior staff, monitors reports (OND holders) |
| Security Officer II (SO II) | Conducts operations, surveillance, and intelligence work (HND/BSc holders) |
| Security Officer I (SO I) | Oversees teams, handles investigations and sensitive missions (MSc holders) |
DSS Career Growth Path
Once you join DSS at entry-level, you can grow through ranks based on:
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Years of service
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Performance evaluations
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Promotion examinations
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Training and certifications
A BSc holder starting as SO II could rise to Director or even Director-General with time and loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the DSS salary for SSCE holders?
SSCE holders earn between ₦90,000 and ₦120,000 monthly as Detective Assistants.
2. Do BSc and HND holders earn the same at entry-level?
Yes, both typically start as Security Officer II (SO II) with similar salary scales.
3. What if I have NYSC but no job experience?
As long as you have your NYSC discharge or exemption, you're eligible for graduate DSS roles.
4. Are there chances for promotion?
Yes. DSS officers are promoted based on performance, length of service, and available opportunities.
5. Does DSS salary increase after training?
Yes. Once training is completed and you're posted, your salary increases from the training allowance to full monthly pay.
Conclusion
The DSS/SSS salary structure for entry-level recruits in 2025 is attractive compared to many government agencies. Whether you hold a BSc, HND, OND, or SSCE, there's a clear path to entry and growth.
Aside from the salary, you’ll also benefit from security allowances, job stability, and the pride of serving Nigeria.
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