Nigeria
Top 10 Highest Paid Paramilitary in Nigeria 2025
Oct
The highest paid paramilitary in Nigeria 2025 shows how security work creates stable careers. Nigeria operates several paramilitary organizations dedicated to national security and public safety. These paramilitary forces protect citizens, prevent crime, and support national development alongside the military.
Paramilitary organizations in Nigeria include the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and Nigeria Police Force (NPF). These agencies employ thousands of officers earning competitive salaries according to rank and experience.
In 2025, top paramilitary officers earn over ₦300,000 monthly at senior ranks. Entry-level personnel start at modest salaries but enjoy job security, benefits, and career progression. The paramilitary sector offers life-long employment opportunities for Nigerians seeking stable careers in security.
Quick Summary: Top 10 Highest Paid Paramilitary in Nigeria 2025
- DSS Director-General – ₦1.5-₦2 million monthly
- DSS General (High-Ranking Officer) – ₦750,000-₦1.5 million monthly
- NSCDC Commandant General – ₦305,332 monthly
- DSS Brigadier General – ₦750,000 monthly
- DSS Major General – ₦600,000 monthly (estimated)
- NSCDC Deputy Commandant General/Assistant Commandant General – ₦205,380-₦225,290 monthly
- DSS Colonel – ₦550,000 monthly (estimated)
- NSCDC Assistant Chief Commander – ₦163,857 monthly
- NSCDC Deputy Commander – ₦152,132 monthly
- DSS Lieutenant Colonel – ₦450,000 monthly (estimated)
Source: Verified Nigerian paramilitary salary structures 2025, government compensation data
How We Found the Highest Paid Paramilitary in Nigeria
We reviewed official salary structures from Nigeria’s major paramilitary organizations including NSCDC, DSS, Nigeria Police Force, and Nigeria Immigration Service. We verified salary figures across all ranks and cadres. We analyzed government compensation data, public service salary scales, and verified employment sources.
All figures come from credible 2025 paramilitary salary structures and official government sources. Salary figures reflect base pay excluding additional allowances and benefits.
Top 10 Highest Paid Paramilitary in Nigeria 2025
1. DSS Director-General – ₦1.5-₦2 Million Monthly
Director-General of the Department of State Services is the highest paid paramilitary officer in Nigeria. The DG commands Nigeria’s entire intelligence and domestic security apparatus. A DSS Director-General earns ₦1.5 million to ₦2 million monthly in base salary.
The Director-General reports directly to the President of Nigeria. This position represents the pinnacle of paramilitary leadership. The DG oversees thousands of intelligence and security officers nationwide.
Responsibilities of DSS Director-General:
- Command entire DSS organization
- Intelligence gathering and analysis
- Counter-terrorism operations
- Protecting senior government officials
- National security strategy
- Presidential security coordination
2025 Status: The current DSS Director-General manages one of Africa’s largest intelligence agencies. The position comes with substantial influence and authority. Budget allocation for DSS exceeds billions of naira under DG leadership.
Beyond base salary, the DG receives numerous allowances including housing, transportation, and security allocations. Total compensation packages exceed ₦3 million monthly when all benefits are included.
2. DSS General (High-Ranking Officer) – ₦750,000-₦1.5 Million Monthly
DSS General ranks among Nigeria’s highest-paid paramilitary officers. Officers holding General rank in the DSS earn ₦750,000 to ₦1.5 million monthly. DSS Generals command major intelligence operations and regional security formations.
Generals in the DSS typically serve as Deputy Directors or head major operational divisions. Their authority extends across multiple states and regions.
General Officer Responsibilities:
- Command major DSS operations
- Lead intelligence divisions
- Oversee regional security operations
- Report directly to DG
- Strategic planning and implementation
- International intelligence coordination
Career Achievement: Reaching General rank in DSS requires 25-30 years of dedicated service. Officers demonstrate exceptional intelligence capability and leadership excellence. Only the most talented and politically connected officers achieve this rank.
3. NSCDC Commandant General – ₦305,332 Monthly
Commandant General of NSCDC leads Nigeria’s Security and Civil Defence Corps. The CG commands over 20,000 civil defence officers nationwide. A Commandant General earns ₦305,332 monthly in base salary.
The Commandant General oversees all NSCDC operations including disaster management, fire services, and internal security operations. The CG reports to the President through the Ministry of Interior.
Commandant General Duties:
- Overall NSCDC command and control
- Disaster response coordination
- Civil defence operations nationwide
- Personnel management for 20,000+ officers
- Budget administration
- Inter-agency security coordination
2025 Operations: The current Commandant General manages NSCDC’s nationwide disaster response network. During emergencies, the CG coordinates federal disaster relief operations across all states.
4. DSS Brigadier General – ₦750,000 Monthly
DSS Brigadier General rank represents senior DSS leadership. Officers at this rank command significant DSS operations and formations. A DSS Brigadier General earns ₦750,000 monthly.
Brigadier Generals typically head regional DSS commands or major operational divisions. Their authority covers multi-state areas or specific operational sectors.
Brigadier General Roles:
- Regional DSS commander
- Major operational division head
- Task force leadership
- Counter-intelligence operations
- Strategic intelligence analysis
- Field operation oversight
5. DSS Major General – ₦600,000 Monthly (Estimated)
DSS Major General represents a senior DSS rank between Brigadier General and General. Major Generals manage large intelligence operations and formations. Estimated salary is approximately ₦600,000 monthly.
Major Generals typically lead multi-state security operations or major intelligence divisions. Their commands span larger geographic areas than Brigadier Generals.
Major General Responsibilities:
- Multi-state security operations
- Major intelligence divisions
- Counter-terrorism command
- International intelligence liaison
- Operational strategy development
6. NSCDC Deputy Commandant General/Assistant Commandant General – ₦205,380-₦225,290 Monthly
NSCDC Deputy Commandant General and Assistant Commandant General represent the second and third-highest ranks in the Civil Defence Corps. These officers assist the Commandant General in leadership. They earn ₦205,380 to ₦225,290 monthly.
Deputy and Assistant Commandants manage major NSCDC divisions. They oversee disaster management, civil defence operations, and personnel administration.
Senior Management Duties:
- Deputy leadership for CG
- Divisional command responsibilities
- Policy implementation
- Personnel and budget management
- Inter-agency coordination
7. DSS Colonel – ₦550,000 Monthly (Estimated)
DSS Colonel is a senior DSS rank below General ranks. DSS Colonels command important intelligence operations and formations. Estimated salary is approximately ₦550,000 monthly.
Colonels typically lead state-level DSS operations or specialized intelligence units. Their authority covers single state or specific operational areas.
Colonel Responsibilities:
- State-level DSS command
- Specialized intelligence units
- Counter-intelligence operations
- Security operations coordination
- Personnel supervision
8. NSCDC Assistant Chief Commander – ₦163,857 Monthly
NSCDC Assistant Chief Commander rank falls within the Inspector Cadre structure. These officers manage important NSCDC divisions. An Assistant Chief Commander earns ₦163,857 monthly.
Assistant Chief Commanders oversee fire services, disaster management sections, or regional commands. They supervise hundreds of junior officers.
Assistant Chief Commander Duties:
- Regional division command
- Service line management
- Personnel supervision and training
- Emergency response coordination
- Operational planning and execution
9. NSCDC Deputy Commander – ₦152,132 Monthly
NSCDC Deputy Commander represents mid-level NSCDC command. Deputy Commanders manage significant NSCDC divisions. A Deputy Commander earns ₦152,132 monthly.
Deputy Commanders typically supervise state commands or major service divisions. They coordinate with other agencies and manage emergency responses.
Deputy Commander Functions:
- State or regional command
- Divisional administration
- Emergency response management
- Personnel coordination
- Inter-agency liaison
10. DSS Lieutenant Colonel – ₦450,000 Monthly (Estimated)
DSS Lieutenant Colonel is a senior DSS rank below Colonel. DSS Lieutenant Colonels command important intelligence units and operations. Estimated salary is approximately ₦450,000 monthly.
Lieutenant Colonels often lead specialized intelligence divisions or operate command centers. They supervise dozens of junior officers and intelligence analysts.
Lieutenant Colonel Roles:
- Specialized unit command
- Intelligence division leadership
- Operational center management
- Field operation supervision
- Training and development
Nigerian Paramilitary Organizations
Nigeria operates several major paramilitary organizations dedicated to national security and public safety:
Department of State Services (DSS)
The DSS (also called SSS – State Security Service) is Nigeria’s primary intelligence and internal security agency. Operating under the Presidency, the DSS reports directly to the President of Nigeria.
DSS Responsibilities:
- Intelligence gathering and analysis
- Counter-terrorism operations
- Counter-intelligence activities
- VIP and presidential protection
- Internal security threats
- Cybercrime investigation
Personnel: Approximately 10,000-15,000 officers
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
The NSCDC protects critical infrastructure and manages disaster responses. Operating under the Ministry of Interior, the NSCDC coordinates emergency responses nationwide.
NSCDC Responsibilities:
- Fire service management
- Disaster response coordination
- Critical infrastructure protection
- Civil defence operations
- Emergency management
- Community safety programs
Personnel: Approximately 20,000+ officers
Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
The Nigeria Police Force maintains law and order nationwide. With over 370,000 personnel, it’s Nigeria’s largest paramilitary organization.
NPF Responsibilities:
- Criminal investigation
- Law and order maintenance
- Traffic management
- Public safety
- Community policing
- Border security support
Personnel: Approximately 370,000+ officers
Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)
The Nigeria Immigration Service manages border security and immigration matters. The NIS monitors national borders and international travel.
NIS Responsibilities:
- Immigration control
- Border security
- Travel documentation
- International liaison
- Counter-trafficking operations
- Port security
Personnel: Approximately 10,000+ officers
Career Progression in Nigeria’s Paramilitary
DSS Career Path: New recruits start at Private earning ₦10,000-₦75,000 monthly. After six months training, they advance to officer ranks earning ₦120,000-₦350,000. Promotion to higher ranks requires examination, seniority, and proven performance. General ranks typically require 25-30 years service.
NSCDC Career Path: Entry-level officers start in Assistant Cadre earning ₦31,188 monthly. After training and performance evaluation, they advance to Inspectorate Cadre earning ₦47,255 monthly. Superintendent ranks earn ₦82,249-₦104,337. Senior management ranks earn ₦152,132-₦305,332. The entire progression typically requires 30+ years.
Promotion Criteria: All paramilitary organizations require examinations for promotion. Length of service, performance evaluations, and educational qualifications determine advancement. Political connections sometimes influence promotion decisions.
Retirement Benefits: Paramilitary officers retiring after 20+ years service receive substantial monthly pensions. A Colonel retiring after 25 years service continues receiving approximately 50-75% of final salary as pension income.
Allowances Beyond Base Salary
Paramilitary officers receive multiple allowances supplementing base salaries:
Housing Allowance: Officers receive accommodation support varying by rank. Senior officers receive larger allowances supporting private residence maintenance.
Transport Allowance: Vehicle maintenance support and fuel allowances enable reliable transportation.
Operational Allowance: Personnel deployed on missions receive additional operational allowances.
Special Duty Allowance: Officers assigned to high-risk or sensitive operations receive premium allowances.
Ration Allowance: Monthly food and sustenance allowances for all personnel.
These allowances can increase total compensation by 30-50% beyond base salary figures, particularly for senior ranks.
Frequently Asked Questions
The DSS Director-General earns ₦1.5-₦2 million monthly, making them Nigeria’s highest-paid paramilitary officer. The DG commands the entire intelligence and internal security apparatus.
New recruits earn between ₦10,000-₦75,000 monthly during training, depending on the organization. After training completion, entry-level officers earn ₦50,000-₦120,000 monthly based on their agency.
NSCDC salaries range from ₦31,188 (Assistant Cadre) to ₦305,332 (Commandant General) monthly. Salary increases with rank, experience, and educational qualifications. Graduates are placed on higher levels than secondary school certificate holders.
Yes, university graduates join paramilitary organizations as officers, not recruits. They skip enlisted ranks and start as junior officers earning significantly more than regular recruits. BSc graduates typically earn ₦120,000-₦200,000 monthly as entry-level officers.
Promotion typically requires 3-5 years between ranks in entry-level positions. Senior rank promotion takes 5-10 years. Promotion to General rank typically requires 25-30 years total service due to limited positions available.
Yes, paramilitary officers retiring after 20+ years service receive substantial monthly pensions. Retirement after 20 years typically provides 50% of final salary. Retirement after 30+ years provides 75% of final salary as ongoing pension income.
DSS generally offers the highest paramilitary salaries, particularly at senior ranks. A DSS General earns ₦750,000-₦1.5 million monthly compared to ₦305,332 for NSCDC Commandant General. DSS’s intelligence specialization justifies higher compensation.
Paramilitary officers receive free housing, medical care, education allowances for children, transportation support, operational allowances, and meal allowances. Senior officers receive substantially more benefits than junior ranks.
Conclusion: Nigeria’s Paramilitary Salary Structure
The highest paid paramilitary in Nigeria 2025 earns ₦1.5-₦2 million monthly as DSS Director-General. Nigeria’s paramilitary sector provides competitive salaries across multiple organizations serving national security and public safety.
Three major paramilitary organizations: DSS, NSCDC, and Nigeria Police Force, employ approximately 400,000+ personnel nationwide. Each organization maintains distinct salary structures reflecting their missions and specializations.
DSS offers the highest individual salaries, particularly at senior ranks, reflecting its critical intelligence and counter-terrorism responsibilities. NSCDC provides stable government employment for disaster management and civil defence work. Nigeria Police Force, while larger, offers more modest individual salaries due to its massive workforce.
Paramilitary careers provide job security, career progression, and retirement benefits. Officers can advance from entry-level to senior command positions through performance and experience. Retiring after 20-30 years provides substantial lifetime pension income.
Paramilitary work carries higher risk than many civilian careers but offers rewards including community respect, job security, and stable income. Young Nigerians seeking security careers find excellent opportunities in the paramilitary sector.
The success of Nigeria’s paramilitary organizations depends on talented, committed officers. These salary structures attract qualified personnel willing to serve their nation. Through dedicated service, officers build secure futures for themselves and their families.
What attracts people to paramilitary service in Nigeria? How can the government better support paramilitary personnel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Discover more about Nigerian security and employment:
External Resource: For official paramilitary recruitment information and announcements, visit the Nigerian Police Force Portal, DSS Official Page, or NSCDC Official Website for updated recruitment exercises and service information.