Have you been searching for the lowest paid paramilitary organizations in Nigeria in 2025? You're not alone. Many Nigerians especially job seekers, corps members, and graduates are interested in comparing the salary structures of paramilitary agencies before applying.
If you’re looking to know which federal uniform jobs pay the least monthly salary, this complete guide breaks it down clearly. We will look at the top 5 lowest paid paramilitary bodies in Nigeria, what their entry-level officers earn, how their promotion system works, and what allowances they receive.
Whether you’re preparing for recruitment or comparing paramilitary salaries, this post gives you everything you need.
What Are Paramilitary Organizations in Nigeria?
Paramilitary organizations in Nigeria are uniformed federal or state-backed security bodies that support the military or maintain civil order. These organizations are different from the army, air force, or navy, but still enforce laws, carry weapons (sometimes), and go through training.
Examples include the Civil Defence, FRSC, Fire Service, Prisons, and Immigration Service.
But while they all fall under the federal government, their salary structures vary.
Factors That Affect Paramilitary Salaries in Nigeria
Before we list the lowest paid paramilitary jobs in Nigeria, it’s important to understand why salaries differ.
Some key factors include:
Cadre of entry (Assistant, Inspector, or Officer level)
Educational qualification (SSCE, ND, HND, or BSc)
Salary structure (e.g., CONPASS vs. CONTISS)
Federal funding and budget allocation
Risk exposure and job complexity
Top 5 Lowest Paid Paramilitary Organizations in Nigeria (2025)
Now let’s dive into the official ranking of the lowest paid paramilitary organizations in Nigeria in 2025, starting from the lowest to the fifth.
1. Nigeria Fire Service – Lowest Salary Structure
The Federal Fire Service is officially the lowest paid paramilitary organization in Nigeria. Despite the dangers associated with fire incidents, their staff receive lower pay compared to their peers.
Entry-Level Rank: Fire Assistant III
Qualification Required: SSCE (WAEC or NECO)
Salary Structure: CONPASS
Monthly Salary: ₦48,000 – ₦62,000
Annual Salary: ₦576,000 – ₦744,000
Challenges:
High-risk duty with low hazard allowance
Delayed promotions in some states
Limited equipment in rural posts
While Fire Service jobs are noble, many applicants turn away due to the low pay compared to the high risk involved.
2. Nigeria Correctional Service (Prisons)
The Nigeria Correctional Service—formerly Nigerian Prisons Service—is another agency with relatively low salaries, especially for officers in the assistant cadre.
Entry-Level Rank: Prison Assistant III
Qualification: SSCE
Monthly Salary: ₦52,000 – ₦66,000
Annual Salary: ₦624,000 – ₦792,000
Key Duties:
Guarding inmates
Supporting prison reform programs
Maintaining prison security and records
Although Correctional officers are part of a structured federal service, their pay remains low, especially for those without higher qualifications.
3. Nigerian Peace Corps (Unofficial & Volunteer-Based)
The Peace Corps is not officially part of the federal salary structure yet, as the bill for full recognition is still pending in the National Assembly. However, they operate in various communities with little or no pay.
Entry-Level Rank: Volunteer Field Officer
Salary: Some receive stipends of ₦15,000 – ₦30,000/month
Official Status: Not on federal CONPASS yet
Annual Take-home (If paid): ₦180,000 – ₦360,000 (unofficial)
Because Peace Corps is not fully recognized as a paramilitary organization, its members are among the lowest paid, if at all.
4. Nigeria Civil Defence (NSCDC) – Assistant Cadre
While the NSCDC is generally seen as a top paramilitary body, officers in the assistant cadre with SSCE qualifications earn very little at the beginning.
Entry-Level Rank: Assistant Cadre Level 3
Qualification: SSCE
Monthly Salary: ₦55,000 – ₦68,000
Annual Salary: ₦660,000 – ₦816,000
Why It's Ranked Low:
Promotions take time without further education
High workload and operational deployment
Entry-level staff often work night duties with no extra pay
Graduates and HND holders earn better, but for SSCE holders, Civil Defence pay is among the lowest paramilitary salaries in Nigeria.
5. Man O' War Nigeria (Voluntary Corps)
Though not officially part of the federal paramilitary system, Man O’ War serves in schools, NYSC camps, and community policing efforts.
Salary (If any): Mostly unpaid, occasional allowances
Type: Voluntary or stipend-based
Training Required: Yes (but self-sponsored)
Monthly Take-home: ₦0 – ₦20,000 (stipends)
Due to its voluntary nature and lack of federal recognition, Man O’ War is among the lowest paid security bodies in Nigeria.
Summary Table: Lowest Paid Paramilitary Jobs in Nigeria (2025)
| Rank | Paramilitary Organization | Monthly Salary (₦) | Entry Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nigeria Fire Service | ₦48,000 – ₦62,000 | SSCE (CONPASS 03) |
| 2 | Nigeria Correctional Service | ₦52,000 – ₦66,000 | SSCE (CONPASS 03) |
| 3 | Nigerian Peace Corps (Volunteer) | ₦15,000 – ₦30,000 (stipend) | SSCE |
| 4 | NSCDC (Assistant Cadre) | ₦55,000 – ₦68,000 | SSCE (CONPASS 03) |
| 5 | Man O’ War Nigeria | ₦0 – ₦20,000 | SSCE (Voluntary) |
Why Are These Paramilitary Salaries So Low?
There are several reasons why these organizations rank low in pay:
Limited budget allocation from the federal government
Low hazard allowances
Delayed restructuring or lack of legislative support
Poor union representation
Heavy reliance on volunteers or auxiliary staff
Can Officers in These Paramilitary Organizations Be Promoted?
Yes. Even if your salary starts low, there is a chance to grow in rank and pay if you:
Upgrade your qualification (OND, HND, BSc)
Pass internal promotion exams
Get involved in special units or tasks
Serve for a number of years with good records
Most paramilitary jobs also allow in-service training to help officers grow.
FAQs: Lowest Paid Paramilitary Organizations in Nigeria
Which paramilitary organization pays the lowest in Nigeria?
The Federal Fire Service is currently considered the lowest paid paramilitary body under CONPASS in 2025.
What is the salary of SSCE holders in the Nigeria Fire Service?
SSCE holders earn between ₦48,000 and ₦62,000 per month at entry level as Fire Assistant III.
Is Peace Corps of Nigeria paid by the government?
As of 2025, Peace Corps is not officially part of the federal payroll, and most members serve voluntarily or on small stipends.
Which is better between Civil Defence and Correctional Service?
Civil Defence has better career growth and more training programs, but SSCE entry salary is slightly higher in Correctional Service.
Can you grow in rank with only SSCE in paramilitary?
Yes, but the process is slower. Officers can reach mid-level positions if they take part-time courses, write promotion exams, or get additional qualifications.
Final Thoughts: Lowest Paid Paramilitary Jobs in Nigeria (2025)
If you're searching for government security jobs in Nigeria, it’s important to compare salaries before applying. As this ranking shows, the lowest paid paramilitary organizations in Nigeria include the Fire Service, Correctional Service, and Peace Corps.
While these agencies may offer job security and training, they pay less at entry level—especially to SSCE and OND holders. However, if you are disciplined, willing to grow, and plan to upgrade your qualifications, you can still build a strong career in any paramilitary agency.
For those looking for higher-paying options, consider applying to Customs, FRSC, or NDLEA, which offer better pay for similar ranks.