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Nigerian Army New Entry-Level Salary And Allowance Structure 2025: Official Pay Per Month
The Nigerian Army plays a vital role in maintaining national security, defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, and conducting peacekeeping operations. As part of its efforts to attract and retain patriotic Nigerians, the Federal Government has implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage in 2025, leading to a revised salary and allowance structure for all ranks, especially entry-level personnel.
In this blog, we’ll break down the official Nigerian Army salary structure for new recruits in 2025, including monthly pay, bonuses, and allowances.
Nigerian Army Entry-Level Salary Structure 2025
The Nigerian Army recruits new personnel into various categories based on educational qualifications, including tradesmen/women, non-tradesmen/women, and graduate officers. Below is the updated monthly salary per category.
1. Non-Tradesmen/Tradeswomen (SSCE/WAEC Holders)
This is the lowest entry point in the Nigerian Army, suitable for applicants with at least SSCE.
|
Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Private (Recruit) |
₦70,000 – ₦80,000 |
|
Lance Corporal |
₦80,000 – ₦90,000 |
|
Corporal |
₦90,000 – ₦100,000 |
These soldiers handle basic infantry roles and serve as the foundation of the Army's operational units.
2. Tradesmen/Tradeswomen (Skilled SSCE Holders)
Tradesmen/women have technical training or special skills (e.g., mechanics, drivers, electricians).
|
Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Tradesman Recruit |
₦75,000 – ₦85,000 |
|
Lance Corporal |
₦85,000 – ₦95,000 |
|
Corporal |
₦95,000 – ₦105,000 |
They perform specific duties while also participating in standard military training and deployments.
3. Entry-Level Graduate Officers (BSc/HND Holders)
University and polytechnic graduates are recruited into the Nigerian Army as Regular Combatants or Short Service Commission officers.
|
Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Second Lieutenant (entry rank) |
₦180,000 – ₦220,000 |
|
Lieutenant |
₦220,000 – ₦250,000 |
These officers lead troops, manage operations, and often begin their careers with six months to one-year training at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) or other Army schools.
Allowances and Bonuses in the Nigerian Army (2025)
Aside from basic salary, Nigerian Army personnel enjoy several allowances and benefits. These depend on rank, location, unit type, and risk level.
Major Allowances Include:
- Housing Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Uniform and Kit Allowance
- Hardship Allowance
- Field Operation Bonus
- Medical Allowance
- Special Duty Allowance
- Peacekeeping Allowance (if deployed internationally)
Note: These allowances can significantly increase monthly earnings, especially during combat or special assignments.
Other Benefits for Nigerian Army Personnel
- Free Accommodation in Barracks
- Pension and Gratuity upon Retirement
- Medical Services for Self and Immediate Family
- Education Sponsorship through the Nigerian Army Education Corps
- Loan and Cooperative Schemes
- Subsidized Food and Supplies
- Peacekeeping Foreign Missions (with USD Allowances)
Career Progression for Entry-Level Soldiers
With consistent performance, soldiers and officers can rise through the ranks and enjoy better pay and benefits. Promotions are usually based on years of service, training, and exceptional performance in the field.
|
Mid to Senior Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Sergeant |
₦105,000 – ₦130,000 |
|
Staff Sergeant |
₦140,000 – ₦160,000 |
|
Warrant Officer |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
|
Second Lieutenant (Officer) |
₦180,000 – ₦220,000 |
|
Captain |
₦250,000 – ₦300,000 |
|
Major |
₦320,000 – ₦400,000 |
Summary Table: Nigerian Army Entry-Level Salary Structure (2025)
|
Category |
Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Non-Tradesmen |
Private – Corporal |
₦70,000 – ₦100,000 |
|
Tradesmen |
Private – Corporal |
₦75,000 – ₦105,000 |
|
Graduate Officers |
Second Lieutenant – Lt. |
₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the current Nigerian Army salary for a recruit in 2025?
A new recruit (Private) earns between ₦70,000 to ₦80,000 monthly.
2. What is the starting salary for a Nigerian Army officer in 2025?
A Second Lieutenant earns between ₦180,000 to ₦220,000 monthly.
3. Do soldiers get paid during training?
Yes, soldiers receive a training allowance during boot camp or NDA programs.
4. Are there housing benefits for Nigerian Army personnel?
Yes. Most personnel live in barracks with free housing and utilities.
5. How can I join the Nigerian Army in 2025?
You can apply via the official recruitment portal when applications open.
Conclusion
The 2025 minimum wage increase has positively impacted the salary structure of the Nigerian Army. Entry-level recruits can now earn between ₦70,000 to ₦250,000 per month, depending on qualifications and rank. Additionally, allowances and career progression make a career in the Army not only patriotic but also financially rewarding.
If you're considering joining the Nigerian Army, this is the best time to apply.
