Nigerian Navy Ranks and Salary for Commissioned Officers (2025 Guide)

If you are interested in joining the Nigerian Navy or simply curious about how much commissioned officers earn, this guide will answer all your questions.

The Nigerian Navy ranks and salary for commissioned officers is one of the most searched topics among Nigerians who want to pursue a career in the military or understand how the Navy compensates its officers.

In this guide, you will learn:

• The full list of commissioned officer ranks in the Nigerian Navy.

• Their respective monthly and annual salaries.

• Allowances and benefits they enjoy.

• Tips for advancing through the ranks.

• Answers to common questions about the Nigerian Navy salary structure.

This article is written clearly for all readers, especially Nigerians looking for trusted information about Navy salaries and ranks in 2025.

Why Choose a Career in the Nigerian Navy?

The Nigerian Navy is one of the three arms of the Nigerian Armed Forces and is tasked with defending the nation’s territorial waters and supporting international peacekeeping efforts.

Many Nigerians join the Navy because it offers:

• Stable and competitive salaries.

• Job security and prestige.

• Opportunities to travel and learn new skills.

• Retirement benefits and allowances for officers and their families.

Nigerian Navy Commissioned Officers: Who Are They?

Commissioned officers in the Nigerian Navy are those who have undergone formal military training and received a commission (appointment) from the President of Nigeria as officers.

They are higher-ranking than non-commissioned officers and seamen, and they hold command positions, lead operations, and make strategic decisions.

Commissioned officers usually enter the Navy through:

• The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as regular cadets.

• The Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) for graduates.

• Special enlistment programs for professionals.

Full List of Nigerian Navy Ranks for Commissioned Officers

Below is the complete hierarchy of ranks for commissioned officers in the Nigerian Navy — from the highest to the lowest:

1. Admiral of the Fleet (only honorary and rarely awarded)

2. Admiral

3. Vice Admiral

4. Rear Admiral

5. Commodore

6. Captain

7. Commander

8. Lieutenant Commander

9. Lieutenant

10. Sub-Lieutenant

11. Acting Sub-Lieutenant

12. Midshipman (entry-level commissioned rank)

Nigerian Navy Salary Structure for Commissioned Officers (2025)

The salary for Nigerian Navy commissioned officers is determined by their rank, years of service, and allowances.

Below is a breakdown of the estimated monthly and annual salaries for each rank as of 2025.

Admiral of the Fleet

• Monthly Salary: ₦3,500,000 – ₦4,000,000

• Annual Salary: ₦42,000,000 – ₦48,000,000

• Note: Honorary rank; no active holder currently.

Admiral

• Monthly Salary: ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,500,000

• Annual Salary: ₦21,600,000 – ₦30,000,000

Vice Admiral

• Monthly Salary: ₦1,400,000 – ₦1,800,000

• Annual Salary: ₦16,800,000 – ₦21,600,000

Rear Admiral

• Monthly Salary: ₦1,200,000 – ₦1,500,000

• Annual Salary: ₦14,400,000 – ₦18,000,000

Commodore

• Monthly Salary: ₦900,000 – ₦1,200,000

• Annual Salary: ₦10,800,000 – ₦14,400,000

Captain

• Monthly Salary: ₦700,000 – ₦950,000

• Annual Salary: ₦8,400,000 – ₦11,400,000

Commander

• Monthly Salary: ₦550,000 – ₦750,000

• Annual Salary: ₦6,600,000 – ₦9,000,000

Lieutenant Commander

• Monthly Salary: ₦400,000 – ₦550,000

• Annual Salary: ₦4,800,000 – ₦6,600,000

Lieutenant

• Monthly Salary: ₦300,000 – ₦400,000

• Annual Salary: ₦3,600,000 – ₦4,800,000

Sub-Lieutenant

• Monthly Salary: ₦250,000 – ₦300,000

• Annual Salary: ₦3,000,000 – ₦3,600,000

Acting Sub-Lieutenant

• Monthly Salary: ₦180,000 – ₦250,000

• Annual Salary: ₦2,160,000 – ₦3,000,000

Midshipman

• Monthly Salary: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000

• Annual Salary: ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,400,000

Summary Table: Nigerian Navy Commissioned Officer Ranks & Salaries

Allowances and Benefits for Nigerian Navy Officers

Apart from salaries, commissioned officers receive various allowances and benefits that make their total compensation more attractive.

Allowances:

• Housing Allowance: Covers rent or provides official housing.

• Transport Allowance: For commuting and duty-related movements.

• Medical Allowance: Comprehensive healthcare for officers and families.

• Uniform and Kit Allowance: To maintain official uniforms and equipment.

• Hazard Allowance: For dangerous assignments, especially offshore.

• Leave Allowance: Paid during annual leave.

Benefits:

• Pension and retirement benefits.

• Scholarships for children.

• Access to military health facilities.

• Life insurance coverage.

• Opportunities for international training and assignments.

How to Rise Through the Ranks in the Nigerian Navy

To progress in the Nigerian Navy and earn higher salaries:

• Perform excellently in your duties and operations.

• Take advantage of training opportunities.

• Exhibit leadership and discipline.

• Pass required examinations and evaluations.

• Serve the required number of years at each rank.

FAQs About Nigerian Navy Commissioned Officers’ Salaries

Do commissioned officers earn more than non-commissioned officers?

Yes, commissioned officers earn significantly more because of their responsibilities and rank.

Is the Nigerian Navy salary paid monthly?

Yes, salaries and allowances are paid monthly.

Are there bonuses in the Nigerian Navy?

Yes, bonuses may be paid for special operations, peacekeeping missions, or exceptional service.

Can Navy officers work abroad?

Yes, officers are often posted on international missions and trainings.

Final Thoughts

The Nigerian Navy ranks and salary for commissioned officers in 2025 show why many Nigerians aim to serve in this respected arm of the military.

With competitive pay, job security, numerous allowances, and professional growth opportunities, a career as a Navy officer is both prestigious and rewarding.

If you aspire to join, start by understanding the ranks, preparing for entry, and striving for excellence in service.