Military nurses in Nigeria are the unsung heroes working in military hospitals, field operations, and national emergency response teams. They serve under the Nigerian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), ensuring the health and welfare of soldiers and their families.
But how much are they paid?
In this 2025 updated guide, you’ll discover the monthly salary structure for military nurses in Nigeria, including entry-level pay, promotions, and allowances.
Military nurses are commissioned officers and their salary depends on:
The rank they hold
Their education level (RN, RM, B.Sc. Nursing, etc.)
Years of experience or service
The branch of military (Army, Navy, or Air Force)
Rank | Monthly Salary (₦NGN) |
---|---|
Nursing Recruit (Trainee) | ₦45,000 – ₦60,000 |
Nurse (Private – Army) | ₦70,000 – ₦90,000 |
Lance Corporal | ₦95,000 – ₦110,000 |
Corporal | ₦110,000 – ₦130,000 |
Sergeant | ₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
Warrant Officer | ₦160,000 – ₦200,000 |
Second Lieutenant (Officer Cadet Nurse) | ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 |
Lieutenant | ₦220,000 – ₦250,000 |
Captain (Mid-Level Nurse) | ₦250,000 – ₦280,000 |
Major | ₦300,000 – ₦350,000 |
Lieutenant Colonel | ₦400,000 – ₦500,000 |
Colonel | ₦550,000 – ₦700,000 |
Note: These salaries are estimates and may vary slightly between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
To become a military nurse in Nigeria, you must:
Have RN, RM, or B.Sc. Nursing
Be between 18 and 28 years old
Pass the military aptitude test and medical fitness screening
Attend the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) or be commissioned through Direct Short Service (DSS)
Be licensed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
In addition to their monthly salary, military nurses enjoy several allowances:
Allowance Type | Estimated Value (₦/month) |
---|---|
Uniform Maintenance | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
Housing or Barrack Lodging | Free or subsidized |
Medical/Health | Full coverage |
Hazard/Duty Allowance | ₦15,000 – ₦40,000 |
Transport/Posting Allowance | Varies by location |
Military nurses deployed to field hospitals, combat zones, or international peacekeeping missions may earn more due to risk or danger allowances.
Yes. The Nigerian Army regularly recruits RNs through Direct Short Service (DSS).
Generally yes, because of the allowances, job security, and promotion opportunities within military ranks.
They may be deployed to field hospitals or peacekeeping missions, especially during emergencies or conflicts.
Yes. B.Sc. holders often start as Second Lieutenants and enjoy better pay and faster promotions.
Becoming a military nurse in Nigeria in 2025 is a rewarding career path—combining healthcare service with the honor of serving your country. Whether you start with RN or B.Sc., the salary and benefits are competitive, especially with housing, healthcare, and allowances included.
If you’re qualified and physically fit, now is a great time to explore the Nigerian Army, Navy, or Air Force nursing programs.