Nigerian Army Ranks And Salary 2023/2024

The Nigerian Army is vital in upholding the nation’s security and territorial integrity. As an esteemed military institution, it performs its functions within a hierarchical structure that ensures effective command and control. 

Today, we will comprehensively overview the Nigerian Army ranks and salary for 2022/2023. 

By understanding the rank structure and remuneration system, aspiring soldiers and those interested in the military can gain valuable insights into career progression and financial prospects within the Nigerian Army.

Nigerian Army Rank Structure 

The Nigerian Army rank structure is divided into commissioned and non-commissioned officers.

Commissioned officers are graduates of military academies and hold leadership positions, while non-commissioned officers gain promotions from within the ranks based on merit and experience. 

The commissioned officers’ ranks are divided into two categories: the junior officers and the senior officers. 

The junior officer ranks, in ascending order, are Second Lieutenant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Major. 

As officers gain more experience and assume greater responsibilities, they progress to the senior officer ranks.

On the other hand, the non-commissioned officers’ ranks are divided into three categories:

  • The junior non-commissioned officers
  • The senior non-commissioned officers
  • The warrant officers 

Let’s check them out.

Commissioned Officers:

1. Second Lieutenant

2. Lieutenant

3. Captain

4. Major

5. Lieutenant Colonel

6. Colonel

7. Brigadier General

8. Major General

9. Lieutenant General

10. General

Non-Commissioned Officers:

1. Recruit

2. Private

3. Lance Corporal

4. Corporal

5. Sergeant

6. Staff Sergeant

7. Warrant Officer Class 2

8. Warrant Officer Class 1

9. Master Warrant Officer

10. Sergeant Major

The Nigerian Army also has a number of specialist ranks. These include:

  • Chaplain
  • Engineer
  • Medical Officer
  • Legal Officer
  • Public Relations Officer
  • Supply Officer
  • Transport Officer
  • Education Officer
  • Quartermaster Officer
  • Intelligence Officer
  • Signals Officer

The Nigerian Army also has several honorary ranks. These are awarded to civilians who have significantly contributed to the Nigerian Army.

Nigerian Army Salary Structure

The Nigerian Army salary structure is categorized based on rank, years of service, and additional allowances. 

It is vital to note that salaries may vary slightly due to location, promotions, and specialized training.

Commissioned officers receive higher salaries compared to non-commissioned officers. 

The salary scale for commissioned officers ranges from around ₦1,000,000 for a Second Lieutenant to approximately ₦18,000,000 for a General. 

Non-commissioned officers start with a basic salary of approximately ₦50,000 as a recruit and can earn up to ₦800,000 as a Sergeant Major.

Let us look them up closely.

1. Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):

  •    Private: ₦48,000 – ₦49,000 per month
  •    Lance Corporal: ₦54,000 – ₦55,000 per month
  •    Corporal: ₦58,000 – ₦59,000 per month
  •    Sergeant: ₦63,000 – ₦64,000 per month
  •    Staff Sergeant: ₦68,000 – ₦69,000 per month
  •    Warrant Officer Class II: ₦80,000 – ₦90,000 per month
  •    Warrant Officer Class I: ₦90,000 – ₦120,000 per month
  •     Master Warrant Officer: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000 per month

2. Commissioned Officers:

  •    Second Lieutenant: ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 per month
  •    Lieutenant: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 per month
  •    Captain: ₦220,000 – ₦250,000 per month
  •    Major: ₦300,000 – ₦350,000 per month
  •    Lieutenant Colonel: ₦350,000 – ₦550,000 per month
  •    Colonel: ₦550,000 – ₦750,000 per month
  •    Brigadier General: ₦750,000 – ₦1,000,000 per month
  •    Major General: ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,500,000 per month
  •    Lieutenant General: ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000 per month
  •    General: ₦2,000,000+ per month

In addition to the basic salary, Nigerian Army personnel receive various allowances contributing to their overall earnings. These allowances include:

1. Accommodation Allowance: Provided to soldiers not living in the barracks.

2. Transport Allowance: Given to cover transportation costs.

3. Medical Allowance: Provided to cater to medical expenses.

4. Ration Allowance: Given for the purchase of food supplies.

5. Uniform Allowance: Provided to maintain proper military attire.

Furthermore, specialized training and qualifications can bring about additional bonuses and allowances. 

These may include Peacekeeping Allowance for soldiers deployed on international peacekeeping missions or Commando Allowance for personnel trained in specialized combat operations.

Career Progression And Benefits

The Nigerian Army has numerous opportunities for career advancement and benefits based on rank and years of service. 

Advancement in the Nigerian Army is primarily determined by merit, performance, and specialized training. 

As soldiers rise through the ranks, they take on more responsibilities and enjoy increased benefits and privileges.

Benefits for Nigerian Army personnel include healthcare services, access to educational opportunities, subsidized housing, and pension plans. 

The Nigerian Army also provides life insurance coverage for its personnel and dependents.

Read Also: Chief Of Army Staff Salary In Nigeria

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Salary Structure The Same For All Branches Of The Nigerian Army?

Yes, the salary structure is generally the same across all branches of the Nigerian Army. However, specific allowances or bonuses may be associated with certain branches or specialized roles.

Are There Additional Benefits Apart From The Basic Salary?

Yes, in addition to the basic salary, Nigerian Army personnel may be entitled to various allowances and benefits such as housing allowance, medical allowance, transportation allowance, and others.

Are There Opportunities For Salary Increments Or Promotions?

Yes, Nigerian Army personnel have opportunities for salary increments and promotions as they gain experience and meet the required criteria. Promotions are based on merit, performance, and meeting the necessary qualifications.

Can Nigerian Army Personnel Engage In Other Forms Of Employment Or Business While Serving?

Nigerian Army personnel are generally not allowed to engage in other forms of employment or business while serving, as it is considered a full-time commitment. However, there may be exceptions or specific regulations depending on the circumstances.

Read Also: Police Ranks In Nigeria: Symbols & Salaries

Conclusion 

Understanding the Nigerian Army ranks and salary 2022/2023 structure is crucial for individuals aspiring to join the military or those seeking to understand its organizational hierarchy better.

The Nigerian Army offers a wide range of career opportunities, and each rank carries its own responsibilities and rewards. 

While the salaries mentioned in this article provide a general overview, it’s important to note that they can change over time due to various factors.