Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous country, relies heavily on its security forces to maintain peace and order. The police and army play critical roles in safeguarding citizens and national interests. In 2025, the question on many Nigerians’ minds is: What are the salary differences between the Nigerian Police and Army? How much do they earn? What are their benefits? How do these salaries compare? What challenges do they face? And what is the future outlook for their compensation?
This article explores the Police and Army salary in Nigeria 2025, providing a detailed comparison and shedding light on their remuneration structures, allowances, and perks.
Understanding the Salary Structure of Police and Army in Nigeria 2025
In 2025, both the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and the Nigerian Army operate under government salary scales governed by the Federal Government’s salary structure, often aligned with the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) and the new National Minimum Wage regulations.
Their pay is influenced by rank, years of service, and additional allowances such as hazard pay, housing, and transportation.
Police Salary in Nigeria 2025: What to Expect?
Who Are the Nigerian Police?
The Nigerian Police Force is responsible for maintaining law and order, crime prevention, and enforcement of laws across the country. Officers are deployed nationwide in various departments.
How Much Does a Nigerian Police Officer Earn?
Entry-level Police Constable: Approximately ₦65,000 to ₦90,000 ($140 - $195) monthly.
Sergeant: Around ₦110,000 to ₦150,000 ($215 - $290) monthly.
Inspector and above: Salaries range between ₦180,000 to ₦500,000 ($350 - $970) monthly depending on rank.
Senior Officers and Commissioners: Can earn upwards of ₦800,000 to ₦1.2 million ($1,550 - $2,300) monthly.
Allowances and Benefits
Police officers receive additional benefits such as:
Housing allowance
Transport allowance
Risk/hazard allowance
Uniform allowance
Medical care
Pension schemes
These perks contribute significantly to their total compensation package.
Army Salary in Nigeria 2025: What Do Soldiers Earn?
Who Are the Nigerian Army Personnel?
The Nigerian Army is the land warfare branch of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It handles defense against external aggression and assists in internal security operations.
How Much Does a Nigerian Soldier Earn?
Recruit/Private: Around ₦75,000 to ₦110,000 ($160 - $215) monthly.
Corporal/Sergeant: Ranges from ₦130,000 to ₦200,000 ($280 - $390) monthly.
Lieutenants and Captains: Earn between ₦250,000 to ₦550,000 ($485 - $1,070) monthly.
Colonels and Generals: Take home salaries ranging from ₦800,000 to ₦2 million ($1,550 - $3,900) monthly, depending on rank and years of service.
Additional Allowances
The Nigerian Army also provides:
Operational and combat allowances for those deployed in active zones
Housing and transportation allowances
Medical services and pension plans
Educational benefits for soldiers’ children
Police vs Army Salary Comparison in Nigeria 2025
| Rank/Grade | Police Monthly Salary (₦) | Army Monthly Salary (₦) | Approximate USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | ₦65,000 - ₦90,000 | ₦75,000 - ₦110,000 | $140 - $215 |
| Mid-level (Sgt) | ₦110,000 - ₦150,000 | ₦130,000 - ₦200,000 | $280 - $390 |
| Senior Officer | ₦180,000 - ₦500,000 | ₦250,000 - ₦550,000 | $485 - $1,070 |
| Top Commanders | ₦800,000 - ₦1.2 million | ₦800,000 - ₦2 million | $1,550 - $3,900 |
From the comparison, the Nigerian Army generally earns slightly higher salaries, especially at senior ranks and during active deployments, due to operational hazards and combat risks.
Challenges Affecting Police and Army Salaries in Nigeria 2025
Despite salary increments and new wage structures, both police and army personnel face challenges such as:
Delayed salary payments in some regions
Insufficient hazard allowances considering operational risks
Lack of modern welfare facilities
Inflation impacting purchasing power
These issues continue to affect morale and effectiveness in the field.
How Are Police and Army Officers Spending Their Earnings?
Many Nigerian security personnel spend their income on:
Family support and education
Housing and accommodation
Transportation (often personal vehicles)
Savings and small businesses to supplement income
Community and religious commitments
Some also invest in properties or pursue further education to enhance their career prospects.
The Future Outlook for Police and Army Salaries in Nigeria
The Nigerian government has committed to improving security personnel welfare through:
Regular salary reviews
Increased allowances for active duty and hazard pay
Improved pension schemes
Investment in training and welfare facilities
These measures aim to enhance the financial well-being and job satisfaction of officers.
FAQs about Police and Army Salary in Nigeria 2025
Q1: Who earns more, Nigerian police or army officers?
A1: Generally, Nigerian army officers earn slightly more than police officers, especially at senior ranks and during active deployments.
Q2: What is the starting salary for a Nigerian police constable?
A2: It ranges between ₦65,000 and ₦90,000 monthly in 2025.
Q3: Do Nigerian security forces receive housing allowances?
A3: Yes, both police and army personnel receive housing allowances as part of their compensation.
Q4: Are hazard allowances paid to Nigerian security personnel?
A4: Yes, hazard or risk allowances are provided, especially for those in dangerous postings.
Q5: What factors influence the salary of Nigerian police and army officers?
A5: Factors include rank, years of service, deployment location, and additional allowances.
Conclusion
The Police and Army salary in Nigeria 2025 reflects the government’s efforts to reward those who protect the nation. While the Nigerian Army tends to earn higher salaries due to combat roles and operational risks, police officers also benefit from competitive pay and allowances. Despite challenges like payment delays and inflation, ongoing reforms and salary reviews aim to improve their welfare. Understanding these salary structures helps appreciate the sacrifices and dedication of Nigeria’s security personnel in 2025.
