The Nigerian Army is the land component of the Nigerian Armed Forces, responsible for land-based military operations within the country. It is one of the three major branches of the Nigerian military, alongside the Nigerian Navy (responsible for maritime operations) and the Nigerian Air Force (responsible for aerial operations).
This page is designed in response to the growing inquiries from individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of the ranks and corresponding salaries within the Nigerian Army.
It’s essential to emphasize that the details provided here are current as of 2024, offering the most recent updates on the organizational hierarchy and financial compensations within the Nigerian Army.
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We recognize the significance of staying informed, particularly for those contemplating a career in the military or for those simply curious about the structure of the Nigerian Army.
However, please be aware that the information shared is for informative purposes only. We encourage individuals to cross-check the data through official channels for the most accurate and up-to-date details.
Nigerian Army Ranks and Salaries for Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers
Individuals with an SSCE certificate receive a starting salary of approximately #50,000 upon joining the Nigerian Army.
Those who enter the Army with an NCE or National Diploma also receive a starting salary of about #50,000.
HND and BSC certificate holders in the Nigerian Army are paid a starting salary of around #120,000. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of ranks and salaries in the Nigerian Army:
For Commissioned Officers:
| Rank | Starting Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Second Lieutenant | 120,000 |
| Lieutenant | 180,000 |
| Captain | 220,000 |
| Major | 300,000 |
| Lieutenant Colonel | 350,000 |
| Colonel | 550,000 |
| Brigadier General | 750,000 |
| Major General | 950,000 |
| Lieutenant General | 1,000,000 |
| General | 1,500,000 |
For Non-Commissioned Officers:
| Rank | Starting Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Private | 50,000 |
| Lance Corporal | 57,000 |
| Corporal | 60,000 |
| Sergeant | 70,000 |
| Staff Sergeant | 80,000 |
| Warrant Officer | 95,000 |
| Master Warrant Officer | 120,000 |
| Army Warrant Officer | 180,000 |
It’s important to note that the starting salaries mentioned above are approximate figures and can change based on government policies and economic conditions. Additionally, the information provided is specific to the starting salaries and may not reflect potential increases with years of service or other allowances and benefits.
Nigeria Army Ranks and Duties
- Recruits: Recruits are new entrants undergoing basic military training. Their primary focus is on learning fundamental military skills and disciplines.
- Private: Privates are the lowest enlisted rank. They follow orders, participate in drills, and carry out basic tasks assigned by higher-ranking soldiers.
- Lance Corporal: Lance Corporals take on more responsibilities, often serving as team leaders. They are expected to lead small groups of soldiers during various activities.
- Corporal: Corporals have increased leadership responsibilities, overseeing small units and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently. They may also assist in training and mentoring lower-ranking soldiers.
- Sergeant: Sergeants are non-commissioned officers (NCOs) responsible for leading and supervising small groups of soldiers. They play a crucial role in maintaining discipline and ensuring tasks are carried out effectively.
- Staff Sergeant: Staff Sergeants typically take on more administrative and supervisory duties. They may serve as platoon sergeants and assist in coordinating activities within their units.
- Warrant Officer Class II: Warrant Officers Class II are senior NCOs with significant experience. They often serve as advisors to junior officers and are responsible for the welfare and discipline of the soldiers under their command.
- Warrant Officer Class I: The highest-ranking Warrant Officer, Class I, holds a senior leadership role. They may serve as regimental sergeant major, providing leadership, guidance, and expertise to both officers and enlisted personnel.
- Second Lieutenant:
Second Lieutenants are newly commissioned officers. They serve as platoon commanders and are responsible for leading and training their units. - Lieutenant: Lieutenants continue to serve in leadership roles, often commanding larger units and gaining experience in planning and executing military operations.
- Captain: Captains are company commanders, leading a company of soldiers. They play a crucial role in planning and executing missions, as well as ensuring the welfare of their troops.
- Major: Majors typically serve as battalion staff officers or commanders of specialized units. They are responsible for overseeing and coordinating the activities of multiple companies.
- Lieutenant Colonel: Lieutenant Colonels hold key leadership positions, often serving as battalion commanders or staff officers at higher headquarters. They play a vital role in planning and executing larger-scale military operations.
- Colonel: Colonels may serve as brigade commanders, overseeing multiple battalions. They play a strategic role in planning and executing military campaigns.
- Brigadier General: Brigadier Generals hold senior leadership positions within the Army. They may serve as brigade commanders or staff officers at higher headquarters, contributing to strategic planning.
- Major General: Major Generals are senior Army officers responsible for leading divisions or serving in high-level staff positions. They play a crucial role in formulating military strategy and policy.
- Lieutenant General: Lieutenant Generals are typically Corps Commanders, responsible for overseeing multiple divisions. They may also serve in high-level command positions, contributing to national defense strategy.
- General: The highest rank in the Nigerian Army, Generals hold top leadership positions such as Chief of Army Staff. They are responsible for overall strategic planning, policy formulation, and ensuring the readiness of the entire Army.
