Looking for the updated Ghana National Fire Service salary structure in 2025? You’re in the right place. Whether you are planning to join the Fire Service, preparing for recruitment, or comparing salaries across Ghana’s security and emergency agencies, this comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the Ghana National Fire Service salary, monthly pay, allowances, and ranks from Recruit Firefighter to Chief Fire Officer.
We’ll break down Ghana National Fire Service salaries by rank, explain all the allowances available to firefighters, show how promotions affect pay, and answer the most common questions Ghanaians ask about Fire Service salaries today.
What is the Ghana National Fire Service?
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) is the government agency responsible for fire prevention, fire-fighting, and emergency rescue services across the country. Their main duties include controlling fires, enforcing fire safety laws, conducting building inspections, and saving lives during accidents, disasters, and other emergencies.
With headquarters in Accra, the Service has regional and district commands all over Ghana. Firefighters work in cities, towns, villages, airports, and industrial areas ensuring public safety and minimizing damage from fire-related incidents.
Joining the Fire Service offers job security, respect in your community, and a chance to save lives while earning a stable income.
Ghana National Fire Service Salary Structure by Rank (2025)
Like other uniformed services in Ghana, the Fire Service follows a rank-based salary structure. This means your monthly pay depends on your rank, years of service, and responsibilities. Below, we explain the monthly salary and typical responsibilities for each rank in 2025.
Entry-Level Officers
Recruit Firefighter
Monthly Salary: GHS 1,000 – GHS 1,300
Responsibilities: Basic fire-fighting under supervision, equipment maintenance, drills, and inspections.
Fireman (Grade II)
Monthly Salary: GHS 1,300 – GHS 1,600
Responsibilities: Active fire-fighting, helping with rescues, inspecting premises, and supporting fire prevention campaigns.
Junior Officers
Fireman (Grade I)
Monthly Salary: GHS 1,500 – GHS 1,800
Responsibilities: Leading small teams, driving fire trucks, and supervising recruit firefighters.
Leading Fireman
Monthly Salary: GHS 1,700 – GHS 2,000
Responsibilities: Supervising operations during fires, coordinating inspections, and training junior officers.
Mid-Level Officers
Section Leader
Monthly Salary: GHS 2,000 – GHS 2,400
Responsibilities: Commanding fire stations, overseeing emergency responses, and conducting fire safety education.
Station Officer
Monthly Salary: GHS 2,500 – GHS 3,000
Responsibilities: Managing a fire station, leading operations, handling investigations, and supervising junior staff.
Senior Officers
Assistant Divisional Officer
Monthly Salary: GHS 3,500 – GHS 4,500
Responsibilities: Regional oversight, high-level operations planning, supervising multiple stations.
Divisional Officer
Monthly Salary: GHS 5,000 – GHS 6,500
Responsibilities: Managing regional commands, coordinating with government agencies, overseeing budgets and policies.
Executive Officers
Deputy Chief Fire Officer
Monthly Salary: GHS 7,500 – GHS 9,000
Responsibilities: National-level planning, managing departments, and supporting the Chief Fire Officer.
Chief Fire Officer (Highest Rank)
Monthly Salary: GHS 10,000 – GHS 12,000+
Responsibilities: Head of the Ghana National Fire Service, policy development, advising government on fire and safety issues, and leading the Service nationwide.
Summary Table: Ghana National Fire Service Salary Structure & Allowances (2025)
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (GHS) | Estimated Monthly Allowances (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Recruit Firefighter | 1,000 – 1,300 | 300 – 500 |
| Fireman II | 1,300 – 1,600 | 400 – 600 |
| Fireman I | 1,500 – 1,800 | 500 – 700 |
| Leading Fireman | 1,700 – 2,000 | 600 – 800 |
| Section Leader | 2,000 – 2,400 | 700 – 1,000 |
| Station Officer | 2,500 – 3,000 | 800 – 1,200 |
| Assistant Divisional Officer | 3,500 – 4,500 | 1,200 – 1,800 |
| Divisional Officer | 5,000 – 6,500 | 2,000 – 2,500 |
| Deputy Chief Fire Officer | 7,500 – 9,000 | 2,500 – 3,500 |
| Chief Fire Officer | 10,000 – 12,000+ | 4,000 – 5,000+ |
Allowances for Ghana National Fire Service Officers in 2025
In addition to their base salary, firefighters receive several allowances that increase their total monthly income. These allowances depend on rank, posting location, and specific job duties.
Main Allowances Include:
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Hazard Allowance: For officers in dangerous or high-risk areas (GHS 400 – GHS 1,500).
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Housing Allowance: Paid if the officer does not live in Service-provided accommodation (GHS 500 – GHS 1,500).
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Uniform Allowance: To maintain and replace uniforms (GHS 300 – GHS 600 quarterly).
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Transport Allowance: Helps cover daily commuting costs (GHS 300 – GHS 800).
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Meal Subsidy: Provided for officers on extended or overnight duty (GHS 200 – GHS 500).
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Night Duty Allowance: For firefighters working night shifts (GHS 250 – GHS 600).
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Leave Allowance: Usually equal to one month’s salary, paid during annual leave.
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Special Duty Allowance: For officers deployed on special operations or national emergencies.
Senior officers may also enjoy duty tour allowances, official vehicles, and conference stipends.
Ghana National Fire Service Rank Structure 2025
The rank structure reflects each officer’s authority, responsibilities, and salary level. Below is the full hierarchy of ranks in the Ghana National Fire Service.
Junior Ranks:
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Recruit Firefighter
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Fireman II
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Fireman I
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Leading Fireman
Mid-Level Ranks:
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Section Leader
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Station Officer
Senior Ranks:
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Assistant Divisional Officer
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Divisional Officer
Executive Ranks:
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Deputy Chief Fire Officer
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Chief Fire Officer
How Promotions Affect Ghana National Fire Service Salary
Promotions in the Fire Service are based on:
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Years of service
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Successful completion of required training
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Good conduct and discipline
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Passing internal exams
Each promotion comes with higher pay, more allowances, and greater responsibilities. For example, moving from Leading Fireman to Section Leader could raise your pay by GHS 500–GHS 1,000 monthly.
Ghana National Fire Service Salary vs Other Agencies (2025)
| Agency | Entry-Level Salary (GHS) | Top Rank Salary (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Ghana National Fire Service | 1,000 – 1,300 | 12,000+ |
| Ghana Police Service | 1,200 – 1,500 | 20,000+ |
| Ghana Immigration Service | 1,100 – 1,400 | 20,000+ |
| Ghana Armed Forces | 1,500 – 2,000 | 40,000+ |
While the Armed Forces and Police earn more at senior levels, the Fire Service provides competitive pay and allowances, especially for officers in high-risk areas.
How Ghana National Fire Service Salaries Are Paid
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Salaries are paid monthly by the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department.
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Funds are transferred directly into officers’ bank accounts.
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Officers receive payslips that detail their salary, allowances, and deductions.
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Deductions include SSNIT contributions, income tax, and other statutory charges.
Benefits of Working in the Ghana National Fire Service
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Job Security: Stable government job with pension.
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Career Growth: Clear path for promotion and professional development.
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Healthcare: Free or subsidized medical care for officers and their families.
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Accommodation: Barracks housing available in some locations.
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Educational Opportunities: Ongoing training and certifications.
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Pension Benefits: Post-retirement benefits through SSNIT.
Ghana National Fire Service Recruitment Requirements 2025
Junior Officers:
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Ghanaian citizenship
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Age: 18–25 years
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At least WASSCE/SSSCE with passes in English and Mathematics
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Physically and medically fit
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No criminal record
Senior Officers:
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Degree or diploma from a recognized institution
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Age: 21–35 years
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Clean record and good character
Training for Ghana National Fire Service Recruits
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Duration: 6–9 months
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Location: Fire Training Schools in Ghana
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Content: Fire prevention, rescue operations, fitness training, equipment handling, and public safety education.
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Stipend: Trainees earn GHS 300 – GHS 600 during training.
Cost of Living vs Ghana National Fire Service Salary in 2025
Here’s how an entry-level firefighter’s salary compares to basic monthly expenses in Ghana:
| Item | Estimated Monthly Cost (GHS) |
|---|---|
| Food & Groceries | 500 – 800 |
| Transport | 300 – 500 |
| Rent (shared room) | 600 – 1,200 |
| Utilities & Airtime | 200 – 400 |
Even at entry level, firefighters can live modestly, especially when allowances cover housing, transport, and meals.
FAQs on Ghana National Fire Service Salary in 2025
What is the starting salary for a Recruit Firefighter in 2025?
Between GHS 1,000 and GHS 1,300 monthly, plus allowances.
How much does a Station Officer earn?
Around GHS 2,500 – GHS 3,000 monthly, plus allowances.
Do firefighters get free housing?
Some officers are accommodated in barracks, while others receive a housing allowance.
Can women join the Fire Service?
Yes, both men and women can apply.
Is training paid?
Yes, trainees receive a monthly stipend during their training period.
How much does the Chief Fire Officer earn?
Around GHS 10,000 – GHS 12,000+ monthly, plus executive-level allowances.
Final Thoughts: Is the Ghana National Fire Service Salary Worth It in 2025?
The Ghana National Fire Service salary structure in 2025, along with its allowances and benefits, makes it one of the most respected and stable government jobs in the country. Although it is a demanding career that involves physical risk and long hours, the pay, allowances, and job security make it worthwhile.
If you’re considering joining the Fire Service in 2025, the answer is yes — it offers a meaningful way to serve your community, enjoy steady income, and build a secure future.