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- Military And Defence
- Armed Forces Guide
- Nigeria
Nigerian Army (Na) Ranks & Salary Structure In Nigeria: 2025 Official Guide
The Nigerian Army (NA) is one of the most powerful ground forces in Africa. It plays a key role in national defense, peacekeeping, and combating insecurity within and outside Nigeria.
For many aspiring officers and recruits, one of the top questions is:
"How much is the salary of a Nigerian soldier or officer?"
This 2025 official guide explains:
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All ranks in the Nigerian Army (Commissioned & Non-Commissioned)
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Their current monthly salary
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Allowances and financial benefits
Nigerian Army Ranks: An Overview
The Nigerian Army is structured into:
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Commissioned Officers
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Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and Enlisted Personnel
Commissioned Officers Ranks & Monthly Salaries (2025)
These are senior officers trained in military academies or through DSSC/SSC programs.
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Field Marshal* | ₦2,500,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| General | ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Lieutenant General | ₦1,500,000 – ₦1,800,000 |
| Major General | ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| Brigadier General | ₦750,000 – ₦950,000 |
| Colonel | ₦550,000 – ₦750,000 |
| Lieutenant Colonel | ₦400,000 – ₦550,000 |
| Major | ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 |
| Captain | ₦220,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Lieutenant | ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 |
| Second Lieutenant | ₦150,000 – ₦180,000 |
Note: The rank of Field Marshal is honorary and rarely held by serving officers.
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) & Soldiers' Monthly Salaries (2025)
These are junior ranks including foot soldiers, technicians, and unit supervisors.
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Warrant Officer I | ₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
| Warrant Officer II | ₦80,000 – ₦95,000 |
| Staff Sergeant | ₦75,000 – ₦90,000 |
| Sergeant | ₦68,000 – ₦75,000 |
| Corporal | ₦60,000 – ₦65,000 |
| Lance Corporal | ₦55,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Private | ₦50,000 – ₦55,000 |
| Recruit (Trainee) | ₦40,000 – ₦45,000 |
Allowances & Benefits for Nigerian Army Personnel
In addition to their base salary, Nigerian Army officers and soldiers are entitled to several allowances, depending on their rank, deployment, and specialization.
| Type of Allowance | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Uniform Allowance | ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 annually |
| Operation Duty Allowance | ₦30,000 – ₦120,000 monthly |
| Housing Allowance | Rank-based; varies by posting |
| Transport Allowance | ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 monthly |
| Medical & Welfare | Free medical treatment + family care |
| Hazard / Combat Allowance | For active battlefield personnel |
| Peacekeeping Mission Bonus | Paid in USD — up to $1,200/month |
Officers posted to conflict zones (e.g., North East) often receive higher hazard and operation duty bonuses.
Quick Comparison Table – Officer vs Soldier Pay (2025)
| Category | Monthly Salary Range (₦) | Allowances |
|---|---|---|
| Commissioned Officers | ₦150,000 – ₦3,000,000 | Housing, travel, uniform, combat |
| Non-Commissioned Officers | ₦50,000 – ₦110,000 | Duty, uniform, transport, hazard |
FAQs – Nigerian Army Salary Structure
1. How much is a Nigerian Army recruit paid monthly?
A recruit (trainee) earns around ₦40,000 – ₦45,000 per month.
2. What’s the salary of a Second Lieutenant in Nigeria?
A Second Lieutenant, the entry rank for commissioned officers, earns ₦150,000 – ₦180,000/month.
3. Does the Nigerian Army provide free accommodation?
Yes, army barracks and housing allowances are provided based on rank and location.
4. What are the benefits of serving in the Nigerian Army?
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Pension after service
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Free healthcare
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Combat and peacekeeping bonuses
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Promotions based on merit
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Training and education opportunities
5. Do soldiers earn more during operations?
Yes. Soldiers deployed for field operations (e.g., in conflict zones) receive extra combat/hazard allowances monthly.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Army salary structure in 2025 reflects both the dedication and risks involved in military service. From trainees to top generals, the monthly income improves with rank, role, and deployment.
While the base salary is modest, allowances and bonuses during operations or peacekeeping missions can significantly increase total earnings.
If you're considering a career in the Army or preparing for recruitment, understanding this structure helps you plan your journey better.
