Nigerian Army Salary & Ranks + Allowances

Are you of the opinion that army officers get high salaries every month? The Nigerian officers get different salaries according to their rank amongst commissioned and non-commissioned officers. They can go up to the top and earn more than they were getting after being appointed.

Organization Name:	Nigerian Army
Monthly Salary Range:	₦48000 – ₦2,500,000
Average Monthly Salary:	₦24001
Organization Description:	It is the primary responsibility of a Nigerian army officer to protect the country and maintain its territorial integrity. The officers are trained to perform duties and restore law and order situations. Moreover, they are liable to protect the country by land and prevent external aggression.
Minimum Qualification:	Education is essential when applying for the Nigerian army. The applicant must pass NECO/NABTEB/WASCE in up to two sittings. Moreover, they must be qualified from a renowned university with at least a second division.

If you’re curious about salary according to rank, scroll down to read the article. The exact figures, along with the monthly allowances, are explained. People willing to apply for the Nigerian army can get much help from the article.

Overview Of Nigeria Army Salary

The Nigerian Army is responsible for safeguarding the lives of Nigerian citizens and protecting the country from both internal and external threats. As part of the armed forces, officers and soldiers are expected to serve with discipline, loyalty, and dedication.

Army personnel are divided into two main categories: commissioned officers and non-commissioned officers. Salaries differ based on rank, experience, and level of responsibility. Not all officers earn the same amount, as promotions and years of service significantly affect earnings.

Meeting the eligibility requirements is essential for anyone aspiring to join the Nigerian Army. Applicants must meet educational qualifications, physical fitness standards, and have no criminal record. Once selected, recruits are paid according to their assigned rank and category.

On average, commissioned officers earn about ₦800,000 per month depending on rank, while non-commissioned officers earn approximately ₦115,000 monthly. These figures may increase with allowances and bonuses received for operational duties and special missions.

Allowances

In addition to basic monthly salaries, Nigerian Army personnel receive various allowances. One of the most common is the ration allowance, which was reviewed in recent years. Although the allowance increased, many personnel expressed concerns that it does not fully match current economic realities.

Other allowances available to army officers include transport allowance, training allowance, operation allowance, hazard allowance, and special duty allowance. These benefits vary based on rank, posting location, and years of service.

Nigerian Army Salary Structure

Commissioned Officers	Salaries (Monthly)
General	₦ 1,500,000
Lieutenant General	₦ 1,000,000
Major General	₦ 950,000
Brigadier General	₦ 750,000
Colonel	₦ 550,000
Lieutenant Colonel	₦ 350,000
Major	₦ 300,000
Captain	₦ 220,000
Lieutenant	₦ 180,000
Second Lieutenant	₦ 120,000
Non-Commissioned Officers	Salaries (Monthly)
Army Warrant Officer	₦ 180,000
Master Warrant Officer	₦ 120,000
Warrant Officer	₦ 95,000
Staff Sergeant	₦ 80,000
Sergeant	₦ 70,000
Corporal	₦ 60,000
Lance Corporal	₦ 57,000
Private Soldier	₦ 50,000

Responsibilities Of A Nigerian Army Officer

Like armed forces worldwide, the Nigerian Army has defined responsibilities and duties outlined in the constitution. Officers must operate within these legal frameworks at all times.

One of the primary responsibilities is maintaining Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Officers are trained to protect the country’s land borders and respond to threats.
Army personnel must adhere strictly to codes of conduct and professional ethics while performing their duties.
They are also required to assist civil authorities in maintaining law and order whenever directed by the President or appropriate government authorities.

How much is the army salary in Nigeria?

Army salaries vary according to rank. A General can earn up to ₦2,500,000 monthly, while a Second Lieutenant earns between ₦150,000 and ₦180,000 per month. Salary increases come with promotion and length of service.

What are the army ranks from lowest to highest?

Army ranks are divided into commissioned and non-commissioned categories. A General holds the highest rank among commissioned officers, while a Second Lieutenant is the entry-level rank. For non-commissioned officers, the Private Soldier is the lowest rank.

Do you get paid while in basic training?

Yes, Nigerian Army recruits receive pay while undergoing basic training. Trainees are entitled to allowances and monthly stipends during their training period.

Army officers are appointed after completing basic education, passing physical, medical, and mental tests, and undergoing training. They start at lower ranks and progress to higher levels through experience, discipline, and performance.