If you’re considering a career in Nigeria’s armed or paramilitary services, one important factor to keep in mind is the salary and benefits offered by each agency. While all security forces serve to protect the nation, not all of them offer the same level of compensation.

In this 2025 guide, we reveal the top 10 highest paid military and paramilitary agencies in Nigeria, highlighting the best-paying jobs for officers, commanders, and recruits across the country.

Why Pay Matters in the Security Sector

Good pay improves:

• Morale and discipline

• Retention of skilled personnel

• Overall performance

• Resistance to corruption

Agencies that reward their officers well often enjoy more loyalty, professionalism, and efficiency.

Top 10 Highest Paid Military & Paramilitary Agencies in Nigeria (2025)

1. Nigerian Army

• Top Rank (General): ₦2,000,000 – ₦2,500,000/month

• Lieutenant General: ₦1.5M – ₦1.7M/month

• Brigadier General: ₦600,000 – ₦800,000/month

• The Army is the largest military branch and offers robust salaries, allowances, and promotions for its officers.

2. Nigerian Navy

• Admiral: ₦1,728,593/month

• Vice Admiral: ₦1,496,791/month

• Rear Admiral: ₦1,376,053/month

• Naval officers earn high due to their technical expertise and maritime responsibilities.

3. Nigerian Air Force

• Air Chief Marshal: ₦1,724,223/month

• Air Marshal: ₦1,486,421/month

• Air Vice Marshal: ₦1,376,323/month

• With specialization in air combat and technology, Air Force ranks attract high salaries.

4. Nigeria Police Force

• Inspector General of Police (IGP): ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,200,000/month

• Assistant Inspector General (AIG): ₦800,000 – ₦1,000,000/month

• Commissioner of Police: ₦500,000 – ₦800,000/month

• Despite lower entry pay, the Police Force rewards high-ranking officers with impressive salaries.

5. Department of State Services (DSS)

• Director General: ₦1,300,000/month (estimated)

• Senior Officers: ₦250,000 – ₦400,000/month

• DSS salaries are not public, but high-level personnel earn competitive wages due to the agency's sensitive intelligence duties.

6. Nigerian Customs Service (NCS)

• Deputy Comptroller General: ₦500,000 – ₦600,000/month

• Chief Superintendent: ₦180,000 – ₦200,000/month

• Entry-Level (Customs Assistant): ₦90,000 – ₦100,000/month

• Customs officers also enjoy bonuses and duty allowances, making it one of the best-paying paramilitary agencies.

7. Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)

• Deputy Comptroller General: ₦500,000 – ₦600,000/month

• Assistant Comptroller: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000/month

• Entry-Level: ₦100,000 – ₦140,000/month

• NIS ranks well due to its salary structure and access to international posting allowances.

8. Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)

• Deputy Commandant General: ₦500,000 – ₦600,000/month

• Assistant Commandant: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000/month

• Entry-Level Cadet: ₦80,000 – ₦120,000/month

• NSCDC salaries are structured and competitive across ranks, especially for officers.

9. National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)

• Commanders: ₦500,000 – ₦900,000/month

• Narcotic Officers: ₦170,000 – ₦300,000/month

• NDLEA officers benefit from risk allowances, promotions, and special assignments.

10. Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)

• Chief Inspector: ₦117,000 – ₦125,000/month

• Officer Cadre: ₦116,000 – ₦142,000/month

• Inspector Cadre: ₦66,000 – ₦100,000/month

• FRSC pays well for technical officers and offers bonuses for drivers and enforcement staff.

Quick Comparison: Top Paid Ranks in 2025

Conclusion

If you're aiming for a well-paying and respectable career in Nigeria’s security sector, these 10 agencies offer the most competitive salaries in 2025. Whether you're interested in the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, or Customs Service, strong pay, benefits, and allowances await those who rise through the ranks.

Each agency has its unique risks, challenges, and rewards—so choose a career path that fits your interest, values, and long-term goals.