Nigerian Army Ranks And Symbols And Salary

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the Nigerian army ranks, including their responsibilities and the associated salary scales.

Plus, you’ll learn about the differences between commissioned and non-commissioned officers and the symbols that signify each rank.

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What Are The Different Ranks In The Nigerian Army?

The Nigerian Army’s rank structure is categorized into Commissioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):

Commissioned Officers

Commissioned officers in the Nigerian Army are senior military leaders responsible for making decisions and leading troops. They usually graduate from the Nigerian Defense Academy or similar institutions.

This category includes ranks such as Second Lieutenant, Captain, and General, each with specific duties. For example, a Second Lieutenant may command a small unit, while a General oversees larger operations.

Their salaries are higher than those of non-commissioned officers, due to their advanced training and leadership roles in national security.

Rank Category	Name	Insignia Description	Responsibilities
Commissioned Officers	Second Lieutenant	One star	Entry-level rank; leads a platoon.
	Lieutenant	Two stars	Commands a platoon; assists in tactical operations.
	Captain	Three stars	Commands a company; involved in decision-making.
	Major	Four stars	Commands a battalion; key staff roles.
	Lieutenant Colonel	Five stars	Commands a regiment; senior field officer.
	Colonel	Six stars	Senior officer; oversees large operations.
	Brigadier General	One star (general)	Commands a brigade; lowest general officer rank.
	Major General	Two stars (general)	Oversees a division; directs large-scale operations.
	Lieutenant General	Three stars (general)	Head of major commands; senior strategic role.
	General	Four stars (general)	Highest active rank; involved in top-level decisions.

Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs)

Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) are key figures in the military, including the Nigerian Army. They hold ranks like sergeant and corporal, selected from enlisted personnel.

NCOs oversee soldiers, ensuring daily operations run smoothly. They are responsible for training, maintaining discipline, and boosting morale among troops.

Rank Category	Name	Insignia Description	Responsibilities
Non-Commissioned Officers	Recruit	No insignia	Entry-level position undergoing training.
	Private Soldier	One shoulder mark	Basic operational role
	Lance Corporal	Two shoulder marks	Junior NCO leading small teams.
	Corporal	Three shoulder marks	Leads a section or squad
	Sergeant	Four shoulder marks	Commands troops
	Staff Sergeant	Five shoulder marks	Senior NCO assisting in administrative roles.
	Warrant Officer	Special insignia	Experienced NCO overseeing training and discipline.

How Is The Salary Structured For Nigerian Army Personnel?

Here’s a breakdown of monthly salaries for both Commissioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):

Salaries For Commissioned Officers

General: ₦1,500,000
Lieutenant General: ₦1,000,000
Major General: ₦950,000
Brigadier General: ₦750,000
Colonel: ₦550,000
Lieutenant Colonel: ₦350,000
Major: ₦300,000
Captain: ₦220,000
Lieutenant: ₦180,000
Second Lieutenant: ₦120,000

Salaries For Non-Commissioned Officers

Army Warrant Officer: ₦180,000
Master Warrant Officer: ₦120,000
Warrant Officer: ₦95,000
Staff Sergeant: ₦80,000
Sergeant: ₦70,000
Corporal: ₦60,000
Lance Corporal: ₦57,000
Private Soldier: ₦50,000

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What Additional Benefits and Allowances Do Soldiers Receive?

Monetary Allowances

Housing Allowance (BAH)
Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
Clothing Allowance
Travel Allowance

Non-Monetary Benefits

Medical Care
Leave Days
Educational Benefits
Retirement Benefits