Have you ever asked yourself, "What are the ranks in the Nigerian Customs Service?", "What is the monthly salary for each rank in the Nigeria Customs Service?", "What is the SSCE rank in Custom salary structure?", "What is the Nigerian Custom rank list?", "What is the HND rank in Custom salary?", "What is the Custom rank list and salary structure?", "What is the Nigeria Custom salary monthly?", "How much does a 3-star Custom officer earn in Nigeria?", "What is the Nigeria Custom Service salary for graduates?" — then this is the guide you’ve been looking for.
In this post, we’ll break down the Nigerian Customs Service ranks and symbols, salary structure by qualification, monthly earnings per rank, and explain the requirements to join. You'll also learn about entry-level positions for SSCE holders, graduates with HND or BSc, and the complete insignia that come with each level.
Whether you're preparing for Customs recruitment, exploring a government career, or simply curious about how the ranks and salaries work in the Nigeria Customs Service, this guide is designed to give you well-organized, easy-to-read, and updated information.
Overview of the Nigerian Customs Service Rank Structure
The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) plays a key role in protecting Nigeria’s borders, collecting revenue through import duties, and enforcing customs laws. It is a paramilitary institution that uses a well-defined rank structure similar to the army, police, and immigration service.
This structure ensures discipline, command order, and clear promotional paths for officers. Ranks are divided into two broad categories:
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) – Junior and middle-level officers
Commissioned Officers – Senior-level officers and top brass
Understanding the difference between these categories helps explain the variation in salary and symbols.
Nigerian Customs Service Ranks (From Lowest to Highest)
🔹 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
These are the ranks typically available for SSCE, NCE, and ND holders. They form the base of the Customs workforce.
Customs Assistant II (CA II) – Entry-level rank for SSCE holders
Customs Assistant I (CA I) – Promotion from CA II
Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC) – Entry rank for ND holders
Inspector of Customs (IC) – Highest rank among non-commissioned officers
🔸 Commissioned Officers:
These ranks are mostly filled by HND and BSc holders or officers promoted from the non-commissioned category. They hold administrative and operational command roles.
Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II)
Assistant Superintendent of Customs I (ASC I)
Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC)
Superintendent of Customs (SC)
Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC)
Assistant Comptroller (AC)
Deputy Comptroller (DC)
Comptroller of Customs (CC)
Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG)
Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG)
Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) – The highest authority in the service
Nigerian Customs Rank Symbols and Insignia
Each Customs rank comes with a unique symbol or insignia, visible on the shoulders of uniforms. These symbols not only signify authority but are also important during inspection and ceremonial duties.
Single Stripe or Chevron – Seen on uniforms of Customs Assistants
Two Chevrons – For Inspectors
One to Three Stars – Found on Superintendent and Comptroller ranks
Eagle and Stars Emblems – Reserved for top ranks like ACG, DCG, and CGC
These insignia are worn proudly and are used to command respect and establish chain of command.
Nigerian Customs Salary Structure (2025 Monthly Pay)
The Nigerian Customs salary structure is guided by the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS). Officers are paid based on their rank, education level, and years of service. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Qualification Level |
|---|---|---|
| Customs Assistant II | ₦30,000 – ₦38,000 | SSCE |
| Customs Assistant I | ₦38,000 – ₦45,000 | SSCE |
| Assistant Inspector of Customs | ₦45,000 – ₦55,000 | ND / NCE |
| Inspector of Customs | ₦55,000 – ₦70,000 | ND / HND |
| Assistant Superintendent II (ASC II) | ₦75,000 – ₦85,000 | HND / BSc |
| Assistant Superintendent I (ASC I) | ₦85,000 – ₦95,000 | HND / BSc |
| Deputy Superintendent (DSC) | ₦100,000 – ₦120,000 | Graduate + Experience |
| Superintendent (SC) | ₦130,000 – ₦140,000 | Graduate + Years |
| Chief Superintendent (CSC) | ₦140,000 – ₦150,000 | Senior Rank |
| Assistant Comptroller (AC) | ₦160,000 – ₦180,000 | Senior Rank |
| Deputy Comptroller (DC) | ₦190,000 – ₦220,000 | Command Role |
| Comptroller of Customs (CC) | ₦230,000 – ₦260,000 | Strategic Officer |
| Assistant Comptroller-General | ₦280,000 – ₦310,000 | Top Leadership |
| Deputy Comptroller-General | ₦320,000 – ₦350,000 | Executive Officer |
| Comptroller-General of Customs | ₦370,000 – ₦450,000 | Head of NCS |
Note: These salaries exclude allowances like transport, housing, risk, uniform, and border duty bonuses, which can nearly double monthly income in some cases.
Nigerian Customs Entry Level Based on Qualification
SSCE Holders – Entry rank is CA II, with a take-home pay of about ₦30,000 – ₦38,000.
ND or NCE Holders – Typically begin from AIC or IC, earning ₦45,000 – ₦70,000 monthly.
HND or BSc Graduates – Start as ASC II or I, with salary ranging from ₦75,000 to ₦95,000.
Postgraduate and Experienced Officers – May enter as DSC or higher depending on experience and need.
Nigerian Customs Allowances
In addition to the base salary, Customs officers receive several allowances:
Hazard Allowance – For officers posted to border or high-risk zones
Uniform and Kit Allowance – Annual payments for clothing
Housing and Transport – For officers not provided quarters
Meal Subsidy – For field workers
Overtime and Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) – For those on special missions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the SSCE rank in Custom salary structure?
SSCE holders start as Customs Assistant II, earning ₦30,000 to ₦38,000 monthly.
2. What is the Nigerian Custom rank list?
It starts from CA II and ends at Comptroller-General, with 15 ranks in total.
3. What is the HND rank in Custom salary?
HND holders start as ASC II or Inspector, earning ₦55,000 to ₦85,000 monthly.
4. How much does a 3-star Customs officer earn in Nigeria?
A 3-star officer like a Comptroller of Customs earns ₦230,000 to ₦260,000 monthly.
5. What is the Nigeria Custom Service salary for graduates?
Graduates (BSc or HND) start with ₦75,000 to ₦120,000 depending on rank and experience.
Conclusion: Nigerian Customs Service ranks and symbols
Understanding the Nigerian Customs Service ranks and symbols is key to navigating the structure of one of Nigeria’s most respected paramilitary organizations. Your educational qualification—SSCE, ND, HND, or BSc—plays a vital role in determining where you start and how fast you grow.
With structured promotion paths, attractive salary, and multiple allowances, the Customs Service remains a top career destination. This guide helps you get familiar with every detail, from ranks and symbols to salaries and FAQs.