As you consider a career in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) or prepare for recruitment, it’s essential to understand the latest salary structure, rank hierarchy, and benefits in 2025. The Air Force is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious military branches, offering excellent pay, job security, and opportunities for growth. Whether you're applying as a recruit, a graduate, or a direct short service candidate, this guide will help you understand what to expect financially and professionally.
In this post, I’ll be showing you the Nigerian Air Force Ranks and Salary in 2025, including monthly earnings, allowances, and benefits. If you’ve been asking questions like: What is the starting salary in the Nigerian Air Force?, How much does an Air Force officer earn monthly in Nigeria?, What are the ranks in the NAF?, How is the Air Force salary structured in 2025?, Which rank has the highest pay in the Nigerian Air Force?, or What are the Air Force benefits after retirement? — then you are in the right place.
Why You Should Know the Air Force Salary and Ranks
The Nigerian Air Force plays a vital role in protecting the nation's airspace, offering both combat and support roles. Knowing the pay structure and career path helps you:
Make informed career decisions before or during enlistment
Set goals for promotion and personal development
Compare benefits across military branches (Army, Navy, DSS)
Prepare financially for the rewards of service
Nigerian Air Force Ranks (2025) – Commissioned & Non-Commissioned
The Nigerian Air Force operates under two main rank categories:
1. Commissioned Officers (Graduates & Professionals)
Pilot Officer
Flying Officer
Flight Lieutenant
Squadron Leader
Wing Commander
Group Captain
Air Commodore
Air Vice Marshal
Air Marshal
Air Chief Marshal (Highest Rank)
2. Non-Commissioned Officers (Enlisted/Tradesmen/Women)
Aircraftman (AC)
Lance Corporal
Corporal
Sergeant
Flight Sergeant
Warrant Officer
Master Warrant Officer
Air Warrant Officer
Nigerian Air Force Salary Structure (2025)
Here is an estimate of the monthly salary of personnel based on rank in 2025:
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Aircraftman (AC) | ₦55,000 – ₦65,000 |
| Lance Corporal | ₦65,000 – ₦75,000 |
| Corporal | ₦75,000 – ₦85,000 |
| Sergeant | ₦85,000 – ₦95,000 |
| Flight Sergeant | ₦100,000 – ₦110,000 |
| Warrant Officer | ₦110,000 – ₦130,000 |
| Master Warrant Officer | ₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Air Warrant Officer | ₦160,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Pilot Officer | ₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Flying Officer | ₦200,000 – ₦220,000 |
| Flight Lieutenant | ₦230,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Squadron Leader | ₦280,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Wing Commander | ₦350,000 – ₦400,000 |
| Group Captain | ₦450,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Air Commodore | ₦600,000 – ₦700,000 |
| Air Vice Marshal | ₦850,000 – ₦1,000,000 |
| Air Marshal | ₦1,200,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| Air Chief Marshal | ₦1,700,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
Note: These are estimated figures and may vary based on allowances, years of service, and duty assignments.
Allowances and Benefits in the Nigerian Air Force (2025)
In addition to basic monthly salaries, Air Force personnel receive several allowances:
Housing Allowance
Uniform/Ration Allowance
Transport Allowance
Hazard Allowance (especially for air combat or mission-based officers)
Medical Care (for officers and immediate family)
Leave Allowance
Pension and Gratuity after retirement
Training Opportunities (including international courses for officers)
Entry Qualification and Rank Placement
| Qualification | Likely Starting Rank |
|---|---|
| SSCE / Trade Test | Aircraftman / Lance Corporal |
| OND / NCE | Corporal / Sergeant |
| HND / B.Sc / B.A | Pilot Officer / Flying Officer |
| Postgraduate Degree | Flight Lieutenant or higher |
Entry into commissioned ranks requires Direct Short Service (DSSC) or Regular Combatant Commission (RCC) applications.
FAQ – Nigerian Air Force Salary and Ranks in 2025
What is the lowest rank in the Air Force?
The lowest rank is Aircraftman, which is the entry-level for enlisted personnel.
How much is the salary of a Flying Officer?
Flying Officers earn between ₦200,000 – ₦220,000 per month.
What is the highest-paid rank in the Nigerian Air Force?
The Air Chief Marshal earns up to ₦2 million monthly, excluding allowances.
Does the Nigerian Air Force pay better than the Army or Navy?
They have similar structures, but the Air Force may offer better incentives for pilots and technical roles.
What is the Air Force salary for SSCE holders?
SSCE holders start as Aircraftmen, earning about ₦55,000 – ₦65,000 monthly.
How often do promotions happen in NAF?
Promotions depend on years of service, performance, and exams. Usually every 3–5 years.
Do Air Force officers get pension?
Yes, military personnel enjoy a comprehensive pension scheme after service.
