Ranks, Pay Scale, Allowances, and Recruitment Guide
The Nigerian Army, as the land warfare branch of the Nigerian Armed Forces, provides a structured career with salaries governed by the Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure (CONAFSS). This includes basic pay, rank-based increments, and various allowances for operational duties, hardship postings, and welfare.
As of 2026, salaries reflect recent adjustments influenced by national minimum wage reviews (e.g., ₦70,000+ baseline impacts) and ongoing welfare reforms by the military authorities. Figures vary across sources due to steps within ranks, allowances, and unofficial reports, but official structures emphasize consolidated pay plus entitlements. Note: Exact amounts can fluctuate with promotions, deployments, and government circulars from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). Recent viral claims of proposed increases (e.g., Private at ₦300,000) remain unconfirmed and speculative.
Quick Overview of Nigerian Army Salaries in 2026
- Highest Salary: Approximately ₦1,500,000–₦2,500,000 per month (General, depending on source and allowances)
- Lowest Salary: Around ₦50,000–₦104,000 per month (Recruit/Private, with recent entry-level reports around ₦104,000)
- Entry Qualification: Typically SSCE/WAEC for non-commissioned roles; degree for commissioned officers
- Recruitment: Periodic via Nigerian Army recruitment portal (army.mil.ng or joinnigerianarmy.ng)
Total take-home pay often exceeds basic salary due to hazard, field, rent, transport, and other allowances.
Commissioned Officers Salary Structure 2026
Commissioned officers lead units and earn higher pay scales.
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) | Notes / Range (from sources) |
|---|---|---|
| General | 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 | Top leadership; includes perks |
| Lieutenant General | 1,000,000 – 1,900,000 | Senior command roles |
| Major General | 950,000 – 1,150,000 | Division-level command |
| Brigadier General | 750,000 | Brigade command |
| Colonel | 550,000 – 970,000 | Regiment/Staff officers |
| Lieutenant Colonel | 350,000 – 850,000 | Battalion command |
| Major | 300,000 – 770,000 | Company command |
| Captain | 220,000 – 690,000 | Platoon/company leaders |
| Lieutenant | 180,000 – 580,000 | Junior officers |
| Second Lieutenant | 120,000 – 510,000 | Entry-level commissioned |
*Ranges reflect consolidated pay plus step increments and reported variations.
Non-Commissioned Officers (Enlisted Personnel) Salary Structure 2026
Enlisted ranks form the core operational force.
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) | Notes / Range |
|---|---|---|
| Master Warrant Officer | 90,000 – 680,000 | Senior NCOs |
| Warrant Officer | 80,000 – 600,000 | Supervisory roles |
| Staff Sergeant | 68,000 – 510,000 | Platoon sergeants |
| Sergeant | 63,000 – 460,000 | Section leaders |
| Corporal | 58,000 – 400,000 | Team leaders |
| Lance Corporal | 54,000 – 350,000 | Junior NCO |
| Private | 49,000 – 300,000 | Basic soldier (recent entry ~₦104,000) |
| Recruit | 50,000 – 104,000 | Training phase |
Recent soldier accounts (2025–2026) indicate entry pay around ₦104,000, rising with service years and promotions (e.g., ₦112,000 after 5 years, up to ₦150,000+ after 20 years).
Allowances and Benefits in the Nigerian Army
Military pay extends beyond basic salary with entitlements:
- Hazard/Operational Allowance — Risk compensation for combat zones
- Field Allowance — Deployments and exercises
- Rent/Housing Allowance — Accommodation support
- Transport Allowance — Mobility
- Uniform Maintenance — Kit upkeep
- Other Perks — Medical care, pension, insurance, family benefits, hardship postings, and special duty incentives
Allowances vary by location (e.g., higher in insurgency areas) and can double or triple take-home for deployed troops. The Army emphasizes ongoing welfare improvements, including salary reviews and better facilities.
Nigerian Army Recruitment Process and Entry Requirements (2026)
Recruitment occurs periodically through the official portal.
- Online application (army.mil.ng)
- Screening and verification
- Physical/medical exams
- Aptitude and trade tests
- Training at depot or institutions
Minimum Qualifications:
- Non-Commissioned: SSCE/WAEC with credits
- Commissioned: University degree/HND (Direct Short Service/Regular)
- Age: Usually 18–28 years
- Fitness, height, and character standards apply
Career Progression in the Nigerian Army
Promotions depend on:
- Years of service
- Performance and evaluations
- Examinations and courses
- Vacancies and merit
Consistent service leads to rank advancements, salary increases, and leadership opportunities.
Is a Career in the Nigerian Army Worth It?
The Nigerian Army offers job security, structured progression, competitive benefits, and patriotic service. While entry-level pay is modest compared to civilian sectors, allowances, promotions, and welfare packages provide substantial growth. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official Nigerian Army website, recruitment portal, or NSIWC circulars. If considering enlistment in 2026, prepare documents and monitor announcements—serving contributes to national defense and stability!
