-
Konnect
- 4 Min Read
- 6 Views
Dss/Sss New Entry-Level Salary And Allowance Structure 2025: Official Pay Per Month
The Department of State Services (DSS)—also known as the State Security Service (SSS)—is one of Nigeria’s most important intelligence and national security agencies. As of 2025, the Federal Government has implemented the new ₦70,000 minimum wage, and this has significantly impacted the salary structure of DSS personnel across all levels.
If you are interested in joining the DSS or simply curious about how much they earn in 2025, this blog provides a detailed breakdown of the current DSS salary structure, especially for entry-level officers, along with the various allowances and benefits they receive.
Updated DSS Entry-Level Salary Structure (2025)
The DSS salary is structured based on rank, educational qualifications, and assigned duties. With the ₦70,000 national minimum wage in effect, no DSS personnel earns below this amount.
Monthly Salary for Non-Commissioned Entry-Level Staff
|
Rank |
New Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Recruit |
₦70,000 – ₦90,000 |
|
Private |
₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
|
Corporal |
₦110,000 – ₦130,000 |
|
Sergeant |
₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
|
Staff Sergeant |
₦150,000 – ₦170,000 |
These ranks are ideal for secondary school leavers, ND holders, and those recruited directly through DSS training camps.
DSS Commissioned Officer Salary Structure (2025)
Graduates with HND or B.Sc. qualifications are often recruited into the service as commissioned officers. With the minimum wage increase, their starting salaries have also been upgraded.
|
Rank |
New Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Second Lieutenant |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
|
Lieutenant |
₦200,000 – ₦220,000 |
|
Captain |
₦220,000 – ₦250,000 |
These officers often go through specialized DSS training after recruitment and may be posted to sensitive security or intelligence units.
Senior DSS Officers’ Salary Structure (Post Minimum Wage Adjustment)
As officers rise through the ranks, their salaries increase in tandem with their duties, risks, and responsibilities.
|
Rank |
New Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Major |
₦270,000 – ₦300,000 |
|
Lieutenant Colonel |
₦300,000 – ₦350,000 |
|
Colonel |
₦350,000 – ₦400,000 |
|
Brigadier General |
₦400,000 – ₦450,000 |
|
Major General |
₦450,000 and above |
These officers handle national-level operations and strategic intelligence services and often supervise hundreds of operatives.
Allowances and Welfare Benefits for DSS Personnel (2025)
Beyond salaries, DSS operatives enjoy numerous allowances that add substantial value to their income. These benefits are designed to cater to the risks, mobility, and operational requirements of the job.
Updated DSS Allowances Include:
- Housing Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Hazard Allowance
- Hardship Allowance
- Medical Allowance
- Leave Allowance
- Utility Allowance
- Detective Duty Allowance
- Operational/Plain-Cloth Allowance
- Uniform and Maintenance Allowance
- Furniture and House Maintenance Allowance
- Torchlight Allowance
- Personal Servant Allowance (for senior ranks)
The exact value of each allowance varies by rank, duty post, and field assignment, but for many officers, allowances can account for 30–50% additional income each month.
Other Non-Financial Benefits for DSS Personnel
- Job Security: DSS positions are secure federal government roles.
- Retirement Benefits: Pension under the contributory pension scheme.
- Health Insurance: Full health coverage for staff and close family.
- Training & Development: Access to local and international security programs.
- Operational Bonuses: For field assignments, covert operations, or risk-based tasks.
Summary Table: DSS Ranks & Monthly Salary (2025 Minimum Wage Implemented)
|
Rank |
Monthly Salary Range (₦) |
|
Recruit |
₦70,000 – ₦90,000 |
|
Private |
₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
|
Corporal |
₦110,000 – ₦130,000 |
|
Sergeant |
₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
|
Staff Sergeant |
₦150,000 – ₦170,000 |
|
Second Lieutenant |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
|
Lieutenant |
₦200,000 – ₦220,000 |
|
Captain |
₦220,000 – ₦250,000 |
|
Major |
₦270,000 – ₦300,000 |
|
Lieutenant Colonel |
₦300,000 – ₦350,000 |
|
Colonel |
₦350,000 – ₦400,000 |
|
Brigadier General |
₦400,000 – ₦450,000 |
|
Major General & Above |
₦450,000 and above |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum salary for DSS officers in 2025?
All DSS personnel earn at least ₦70,000 monthly, following the new minimum wage directive.
2. What are the requirements to join the DSS?
Applicants must have a minimum of SSCE for recruit-level roles and a university degree for officer roles. Background checks and physical fitness are also mandatory.
3. Do DSS officers get paid allowances?
Yes. Allowances such as hazard, transport, housing, and medical are paid monthly or quarterly depending on the officer’s rank and duty post.
4. How long does DSS training last?
DSS training for new recruits typically lasts between 6 to 9 months, depending on your entry route.
5. Can DSS officers be promoted?
Yes. Promotions are based on years of service, performance, and training completion.
Conclusion
With the new ₦70,000 minimum wage implemented in 2025, DSS/SSS officers now enjoy a much-improved salary structure and benefit scheme. Whether you're entering the agency as a recruit or a graduate officer, you can expect a solid monthly income, generous allowances, and long-term job security.
Joining the DSS isn’t just about a paycheck—it’s about serving your country at the highest level of intelligence and security operations, while also enjoying the financial stability that comes with it.
