Learn about the Nigerian Army Salary Structure, see the ranks, training allowances for recruits, and Cadets in 2025.
The Nigerian Army is the largest branch of the Armed Forces and one of the most respected institutions in the country. Many young Nigerians aspire to join the military due to its prestige, structured career progression, and steady income. If you’re researching the Nigerian Army ranks, salary structure, training allowances, and benefits, this detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know in clear and realistic terms.
Overview of the Nigerian Army Structure
The Army’s ranks are divided into two broad categories:
- Commissioned Officers
- Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) / Enlisted Personnel
Each rank comes with different responsibilities, salaries, and allowances. Promotions are based on merit, years of service, training, and available vacancies.
Nigerian Army Salary Structure by Rank
Salaries in the Nigerian Army vary according to rank and years of service. Below is a realistic breakdown of the monthly salary scale, based on recent official and insider reports.
Salary Structure for Commissioned Officers
- Field Marshal (Five-Star General)
- This rank is largely ceremonial and rarely attained.
- Estimated Monthly Salary: ₦3 million+
- General
- Monthly Salary: ₦1.5 million – ₦2 million
- Lieutenant General
- Monthly Salary: ₦1 million – ₦1.5 million
- Major General
- Monthly Salary: ₦750,000 – ₦1 million
- Brigadier General
- Monthly Salary: ₦550,000 – ₦700,000
- Colonel
- Monthly Salary: ₦400,000 – ₦550,000
- Lieutenant Colonel
- Monthly Salary: ₦350,000 – ₦450,000
- Major
- Monthly Salary: ₦300,000 – ₦350,000
- Captain
- Monthly Salary: ₦220,000 – ₦280,000
- Lieutenant
- Monthly Salary: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000
- Second Lieutenant
- Monthly Salary: ₦160,000 – ₦180,000
Salary Structure for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs)
- Master Warrant Officer
- Monthly Salary: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000
- Warrant Officer
- Monthly Salary: ₦100,000 – ₦120,000
- Staff Sergeant
- Monthly Salary: ₦85,000 – ₦100,000
- Sergeant
- Monthly Salary: ₦70,000 – ₦85,000
- Corporal
- Monthly Salary: ₦60,000 – ₦70,000
- Lance Corporal
- Monthly Salary: ₦57,000 – ₦60,000
- Private Soldier (Recruit)
- Monthly Salary: ₦50,000 – ₦57,000
These figures may vary slightly due to updates, allowances, and special duties, but they provide a clear overview for anyone considering a career in the Nigerian Army.
Nigerian Army Ranks in Proper Hierarchy
Below is the rank order from highest to lowest:
Commissioned Officers
- Field Marshal
- General
- Lieutenant General
- Major General
- Brigadier General
- Colonel
- Lieutenant Colonel
- Major
- Captain
- Lieutenant
- Second Lieutenant
Non-Commissioned Officers & Enlisted Ranks
- Master Warrant Officer
- Warrant Officer
- Staff Sergeant
- Sergeant
- Corporal
- Lance Corporal
- Private
This structure ensures command flow, discipline, and proper chain of authority across all Army formations.
Training Allowances in the Nigerian Army
Many applicants want to know what they earn while in training. Although training allowances are not as high as full salaries, recruits and cadets still receive stipends to cover basic upkeep.
Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Cadets
Cadets training as future officers at NDA receive monthly stipends estimated between ₦25,000 and ₦50,000, depending on the year of study and allowance adjustments.
Short Service and Direct Short Service Cadets
Officer cadets under SSC and DSSC programs can earn ₦35,000 to ₦60,000 as monthly training allowances.
Recruits at Depot Nigerian Army (Zaria)
New recruits undergoing basic military training typically earn between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000 monthly until they pass out and are posted.
Other Allowances and Benefits
Besides the basic salary, Nigerian Army personnel enjoy several fringe benefits and operational allowances. These allowances often exceed monthly salaries for officers deployed on special missions.
Common Allowances Include:
- Operation Duty Allowance
- Uniform and Kit Allowance
- Housing Allowance
- Transportation Allowance
- Medical Allowance
- Hazard Allowance
- Special Forces or Specialized Training Allowances
- Risk and Mission Allowance (for officers deployed to conflict zones)
Key Responsibilities That Influence Pay
Rank is not the only factor in Army remuneration. The nature of duty also plays a role. Here are some assignments that attract extra benefits:
- Participation in peacekeeping operations
- Deployment to battlefields or insurgency areas
- Command or administrative roles at high levels
- Specialist positions like engineering, intelligence, medical, and signals
Entry Requirements into the Nigerian Army
For those interested in joining, these are the basic criteria:
- Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth
- Age requirements vary between 18–26, depending on the program
- Minimum academic requirement: O’Level (SSCE) or higher
- Physical fitness and medical fitness are compulsory
- Applicants must not belong to any secret society or have a criminal record.
- Height requirements:
- 68m for men
- 65m for women
Why Many Nigerians Choose the Army
Apart from patriotism and a sense of duty, there are real benefits that attract candidates:
Career Growth and Promotion Path
With time and further training, soldiers can rise through the ranks.
Job Security
As long as you follow the rules and perform your duties, your career is safe.
Pension and Gratuity
Upon retirement, officers receive pensions and benefits.
Housing and Healthcare
The Army provides accommodation within barracks and access to military hospitals.
International Opportunities
Nigerian Army personnel are often part of UN peacekeeping missions abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the starting salary of a Nigerian Army recruit?
A recruit or private earns around ₦50,000 to ₦57,000 monthly after passing out of basic training. - How much does a Nigerian Army captain earn monthly?
A captain earns between ₦220,000 and ₦280,000 per month, excluding allowances. - Do soldiers get paid during training?
Yes, recruits and cadets receive training allowances depending on their entry level. - What is the highest-paid rank in the Nigerian Army?
The highest rank is Field Marshal, but the practical top rank is General, with salaries ranging from ₦1.5 million to ₦2 million monthly. - Are there bonuses for officers in active combat?
Yes, personnel deployed to high-risk zones receive hazard and operational allowances.
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Conclusion
Understanding the Nigerian Army salary structure, ranks, and training allowances helps prospective candidates make informed decisions.
If you’re considering joining, focus on meeting the eligibility criteria, staying physically fit, and preparing for training. The Nigerian Army remains one of the most structured career paths for patriots seeking stable income, promotion opportunities, and long-term benefits.
