Thinking about joining the Nigerian Navy or just curious about how much they earn? This guide breaks down the exact salary structure for 2025, including allowances, benefits, and career growth opportunities.
The Nigerian Navy is the biggest naval force in West Africa, both in size and strength. Nigeria has a large coastline and depends on the Navy to protect its waters. If you’re thinking about joining the Navy, it’s important to know how much officers earn and what benefits they get.
Nigerian Navy Salary Overview
- Organization Name: Nigerian Navy
- Monthly Salary Range: ₦45,854 – ₦1,358,595
- Average Monthly Salary: ₦702,224.5
- Minimum Qualification: You need one of these: WASSCE, GCE O’Level, NECO, NABTEB, WAEC City and Guilds, London City and Guilds, or OND.
Navy officers are not just regular workers; they are responsible for guarding Nigeria’s waters. Because of this, the job comes with a sense of duty and pride. On average, a Nigerian Navy officer earns about ₦702,225 per month. Let’s take a closer look at the ranks, salaries, and extra allowances.
Nigerian Navy Ranks, Salaries, and Allowances
There are different ranks in the Navy, but the main goal is the same—to protect Nigeria’s waters. The higher your rank and experience, the more you earn.
Extra Benefits
Navy officers get additional pay aside from their basic salaries:
- Housing Allowance: If an officer doesn’t live in the barracks, they get 40% of their salary as housing allowance.
- Training Allowance: Officers receive extra pay while in training.
Training Allowance
- Trainees: ₦10,000 – ₦12,000 per month
- Short-term Cadets: ₦15,000 – ₦20,000 per month
- Regular Cadets (Nigerian Defence Academy): ₦25,000 – ₦30,000 per month
Nigerian Navy Salary Structure
The Navy is organized into two main groups:
- Commissioned Officers (graduates who enter through the Nigerian Defence Academy or Direct Short Service Commission)
- Non-Commissioned Officers (recruited through general enlistment)
Commissioned Officers Salary (Graduates and Higher Ranking Officers)
These officers lead and make key decisions in the Navy. Here’s what they earn:
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Admiral | 1,358,595 |
| Vice Admiral | 1,113,602 |
| Rear Admiral | 1,003,245 |
| Commodore | 615,488 |
| Captain | 309,654 |
| Commander | 281,673 |
| Lieutenant Commander | 230,652 |
| Lieutenant | 195,685 |
| Sub-Lieutenant | 150,625 |
| Acting Sub-Lieutenant | 130,852 |
| Midshipman | 118,835 |
Non-Commissioned Officers and Their Salaries (Enlisted Personnel)
Non-commissioned officers don’t take part in decision-making but play important roles in daily operations.
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) |
| Warrant Chief Petty Officer | 120,853 |
| Chief Petty Officer | 90,825 |
| Petty Officer | 80,852 |
| Leading Rating | 70,855 |
| Able Rating | 50,855 |
| Ordinary Rating | 45,854 |
What the Nigerian Navy Does
The Navy is responsible for keeping Nigeria’s waters safe. Some of their key duties include:
- Guarding Nigeria’s territorial waters
- Protecting the Economic Exclusive Zone
- Ensuring the safety of trade routes
- Monitoring and protecting marine life
- Representing Nigeria’s strength and presence at sea
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I join the Nigerian Navy?
To join the Navy, you need at least a WASSCE, NECO, or equivalent qualification and must pass the recruitment process.
Does the Nigerian Navy pay well?
Yes, the Navy offers competitive salaries along with housing, training, and other allowances.
What is the highest rank in the Nigerian Navy?
The highest rank in the Nigerian Navy is Admiral.
What is the lowest salary in the Nigerian Navy?
The lowest salary in the Navy is ₦45,854 per month for an Ordinary Rating.
In summary, the Nigerian Navy plays a big role in protecting Nigeria’s maritime borders. Salaries vary based on rank, experience, and qualifications. Whether you are looking for a career in the Navy or just want to understand how much they earn, this guide gives a full breakdown of the salary structure.
Do you have questions about the Nigerian Navy salary structure? Drop a comment below, and we’ll answer!