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- Military And Defence
- Armed Forces Guide
- Nigeria
Nigerian Army (Na) Salary & Ranks For Entry-Level Personnel: Bsc, Hnd, Ond & Ssce Holders In 2025
Are you planning to join the Nigerian Army in 2025? Whether you’re applying with a BSc, HND, OND, or SSCE, your qualification determines both your starting salary and military rank.
This official guide explains the entry-level ranks and salary structure for new recruits, DSSC/SSC officers, and NDA cadets in the Nigerian Army.
Nigerian Army Entry Routes by Qualification
| Qualification | Entry Route | Commissioned? |
|---|---|---|
| BSc/HND | DSSC / SSC | ✅ Yes |
| OND/NCE | Recruit (Non-commissioned) | ❌ No |
| SSCE (WAEC/NECO) | Recruit (Non-trades/tradesmen) | ❌ No |
Nigerian Army Entry-Level Ranks & Monthly Salary in 2025
Here’s the breakdown of salary by entry qualification and rank:
BSc/HND Holders – DSSC/SSC
You will start as a Second Lieutenant or Lieutenant, depending on your entry route.
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Second Lieutenant | ₦260,000 – ₦290,000 | SSC route (Combatant role) |
| Lieutenant | ₦300,000 – ₦330,000 | DSSC route (Medical, Legal, ICT) |
Full salary begins after successful training and commissioning.
OND/NCE Holders – Recruit Entry
OND holders enter as Private Soldiers or sometimes Lance Corporals, especially in technical roles.
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Private | ₦85,000 – ₦95,000 | Most common entry rank |
| Lance Corporal | ₦95,000 – ₦110,000 | Slightly higher for technical trades |
Promotion depends on performance and years of service.
SSCE (WAEC/NECO) Holders – Regular Recruit
This group also starts as Private Soldiers, with basic allowance and salary.
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Private | ₦85,000 – ₦90,000 | Basic rank for SSCE holders |
They can rise through the ranks over time with hard work and experience.
Summary Table – Entry-Level Nigerian Army Salary by Qualification
| Qualification | Entry Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Commissioned Officer? |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSc/HND | 2nd Lieutenant / Lieutenant | ₦260,000 – ₦330,000 | ✅ Yes |
| OND/NCE | Private / Lance Corporal | ₦85,000 – ₦110,000 | ❌ No |
| SSCE | Private | ₦85,000 – ₦90,000 | ❌ No |
Other Benefits for Nigerian Army Personnel
Besides monthly salary, soldiers and officers enjoy:
-
Free housing or housing allowance
-
Feeding (especially during training/deployment)
-
Free medical care
-
Military education and training
-
Pension after retirement
-
Peacekeeping mission allowances (if deployed)
-
Uniform and equipment allowance
FAQs – Nigerian Army Salary & Entry Rank (2025)
1. Can an SSCE holder become an officer?
No, not directly. However, after years of service and further education, promotion is possible.
2. What’s the difference between DSSC and SSC?
-
DSSC: Non-combatant professionals (Doctors, Lawyers, etc.)
-
SSC: Combatant graduates who serve as junior officers
3. Is NYSC required for BSc/HND applicants?
Yes. You must present a valid NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.
4. Do recruits get paid during training?
Yes. Trainees receive ₦20,000 to ₦60,000 monthly, depending on entry route. Full salary begins after commissioning or graduation.
5. How often do promotions occur?
Every 2–4 years depending on performance, years of service, and vacancies.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Army salary and rank structure in 2025 offers competitive pay based on qualifications. SSCE holdersbegin as Privates; OND/NCE holders may earn slightly more; and BSc/HND graduates enter as officers with significantly higher salaries.
The military remains a stable and honorable career path in Nigeria. Whether you're a fresh graduate or an SSCE holder, there's a place for you to serve and grow in the Nigerian Army.
