Have you been wondering, "What are the ranks in the Nigerian Prison Service?", "How much is the Nigerian Correctional Service salary per month in 2025?", or "What is the salary of a prison warden in Nigeria?" This detailed guide answers all those questions and more.
Here, we break down the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) ranks and salary structure, entry qualifications, insignia, monthly salaries by rank, and additional allowances. Whether you're considering a career in corrections or simply curious, this article provides an up-to-date and easy-to-understand overview.
Overview of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)
The Nigerian Correctional Service, formerly known as the Nigerian Prisons Service, is a paramilitary agency under the Federal Ministry of Interior. Its core responsibilities include the custody, rehabilitation, and reformation of convicted offenders and awaiting trial inmates.
The agency was renamed following the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019. The new mandate includes both custodial and non-custodial responsibilities, such as parole, probation, and community service supervision.
NCoS operates like other paramilitary organizations and maintains a hierarchical structure based on ranks, responsibilities, and qualifications.
Categories of Personnel in the Nigerian Correctional Service
There are two broad personnel categories:
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) – Entry-level to junior officers, typically for SSCE, NCE, or ND holders
Commissioned Officers – Higher-ranking officers, usually HND or BSc graduates and above
Understanding these categories is key to knowing entry levels, promotion paths, and salary expectations.
Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks (From Lowest to Highest)
🔹 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
Correctional Assistant III (CA III) – For SSCE holders
Correctional Assistant II (CA II)
Correctional Assistant I (CA I)
Assistant Inspector of Corrections (AIC) – For ND or NCE holders
Inspector of Corrections (IC)
🔸 Commissioned Officers:
Assistant Superintendent of Corrections II (ASC II) – For HND or BSc holders
Assistant Superintendent of Corrections I (ASC I)
Deputy Superintendent of Corrections (DSC)
Superintendent of Corrections (SC)
Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC)
Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC)
Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC)
Controller of Corrections (CC)
Assistant Controller General of Corrections (ACGC)
Deputy Controller General of Corrections (DCGC)
Controller General of Corrections (CGC)
Rank Insignia and Symbols in the Nigerian Correctional Service
The Correctional Service uses visible insignia on uniforms to denote ranks, similar to the military and other paramilitary services:
Chevrons – Used for Correctional Assistants and Inspectors
One to Three Stars – Represent ranks from ASC to CSC
Eagle, Star, and Coat of Arms Emblems – For Controllers and higher-ranking officers
These insignias ensure a clear chain of command and help identify officers' authority.
Nigerian Correctional Service Salary Structure 2025 (Monthly Pay by Rank)
The NCoS salary system is based on the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS). Salaries are determined by rank, qualification, and years of service.
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Correctional Assistant III (CA III) | ₦30,000 – ₦35,000 | SSCE |
| Correctional Assistant II (CA II) | ₦35,000 – ₦40,000 | SSCE |
| Correctional Assistant I (CA I) | ₦40,000 – ₦45,000 | SSCE/NCE |
| Assistant Inspector (AIC) | ₦45,000 – ₦55,000 | ND/NCE |
| Inspector of Corrections (IC) | ₦55,000 – ₦65,000 | ND/HND |
| ASC II | ₦75,000 – ₦85,000 | BSc/HND |
| ASC I | ₦85,000 – ₦95,000 | Graduate |
| DSC | ₦100,000 – ₦120,000 | Graduate + Experience |
| SC | ₦120,000 – ₦135,000 | Graduate + Promotion |
| CSC | ₦140,000 – ₦160,000 | Senior Officer |
| ACC | ₦170,000 – ₦190,000 | Command Role |
| DCC | ₦200,000 – ₦230,000 | Command Role |
| CC | ₦240,000 – ₦270,000 | Strategic Role |
| ACGC | ₦300,000 – ₦330,000 | Zonal Coordinator |
| DCGC | ₦350,000 – ₦380,000 | Deputy Head of Service |
| CGC | ₦400,000 – ₦500,000 | Head of NCoS |
Entry Level in Correctional Service Based on Qualification
SSCE Holders: Enter as CA III, earning ₦30,000–₦35,000 monthly
NCE or ND Holders: Start from AIC or IC, with ₦45,000–₦65,000 salary
HND or BSc Graduates: Start at ASC II or ASC I, earning ₦75,000–₦95,000
Experienced Graduates or Postgraduates: May start at DSC or above depending on position and years of service
Allowances and Benefits for Nigerian Correctional Officers
In addition to the base salary, officers in the NCoS receive several allowances:
Hazard and Risk Allowance – For the nature of prison duties
Uniform Allowance – To support purchase and maintenance of uniforms
Housing Allowance – May vary based on rank and location
Transport Allowance – For official mobility and logistics
Meal Subsidies – Especially for officers on shift
Overtime and Duty Tour Allowance – For extra working hours or assignments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the starting salary for prison officers in Nigeria?
SSCE holders start as CA III with ₦30,000–₦35,000 monthly pay.What rank does a BSc holder start at in Correctional Service?
Typically at ASC II, earning ₦75,000–₦85,000 monthly.What are the highest ranks in the Nigerian Correctional Service?
Top ranks include CC, ACGC, DCGC, and the CGC, who is the head of the Service.Is the Nigerian Correctional Service a good career?
Yes. Though starting salaries are modest, the job offers stability, promotion opportunities, and various allowances.How many years does it take to be promoted in Correctional Service?
Promotions depend on service years, exams, and conduct—usually every 3–5 years.
Conclusion: Correctional Service Ranks and Salary Structure
The Nigerian Correctional Service ranks and salary structure in 2025 offers insight into how officers are graded and compensated. From Correctional Assistant III to Controller General, each rank plays a vital role in maintaining law, order, and rehabilitation within Nigeria’s penal system.
Whether you hold an SSCE, ND, HND, or BSc, there is a pathway for you within the NCoS. With clearly defined rank structures, competitive salaries, and numerous allowances, the Nigerian Correctional Service presents a stable and respected career choice in public service.