The Nigerian Navy remains one of the most respected arms of the Nigerian Armed Forces, offering job security, good pay, and career growth.
This guide focuses on the Nigerian Navy ranks and salary for non-commissioned officers (NCOs) — what they earn monthly and annually, the allowances they enjoy, and how the ranks are structured.
Whether you are planning to join the Navy, researching military pay in Nigeria, or just curious, this article explains everything in simple terms.
Who Are Non-Commissioned Officers in the Nigerian Navy?
Non-commissioned officers are Navy personnel who have not been commissioned by the President as officers but hold leadership and technical responsibilities below commissioned officers.
They play key roles such as supervising junior sailors, ensuring discipline, operating machinery, and assisting commissioned officers in missions.
Non-commissioned officers usually rise through the ranks from the entry-level recruit stage by serving, passing exams, and gaining experience.
Why Learn About Non-Commissioned Officer Ranks and Salaries?
If you’re looking to join the Nigerian Navy or wish to understand how it rewards its personnel:
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It helps you set realistic career expectations.
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You can prepare better for promotional exams.
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You’ll know what each rank earns and their responsibilities.
Ranks of Non-Commissioned Officers in the Nigerian Navy
Here are the full ranks of NCOs in the Nigerian Navy, listed from the highest to the lowest:
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Warrant Chief Petty Officer (WCPO)
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Chief Petty Officer (CPO)
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Petty Officer (PO)
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Leading Seaman (LS)
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Able Seaman (AB)
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Ordinary Seaman (OS)
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Trainee/Recruit (entry-level)
These ranks cover all enlisted personnel before they reach the level of a Midshipman or commissioned officer.
Nigerian Navy Salary Structure for Non-Commissioned Officers (2025)
The salary for Nigerian Navy NCOs depends on their rank, years of service, and allowances.
Below is a detailed breakdown of their estimated monthly and annual earnings.
Warrant Chief Petty Officer (WCPO)
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Monthly Salary: ₦150,000 – ₦190,000
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Annual Salary: ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,280,000
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Highest NCO rank with leadership and administrative duties.
Chief Petty Officer (CPO)
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Monthly Salary: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000
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Annual Salary: ₦1,440,000 – ₦1,800,000
Petty Officer (PO)
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Monthly Salary: ₦90,000 – ₦120,000
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Annual Salary: ₦1,080,000 – ₦1,440,000
Leading Seaman (LS)
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Monthly Salary: ₦70,000 – ₦90,000
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Annual Salary: ₦840,000 – ₦1,080,000
Able Seaman (AB)
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Monthly Salary: ₦60,000 – ₦75,000
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Annual Salary: ₦720,000 – ₦900,000
Ordinary Seaman (OS)
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Monthly Salary: ₦50,000 – ₦65,000
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Annual Salary: ₦600,000 – ₦780,000
Trainee/Recruit
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Monthly Salary: ₦45,000 – ₦55,000
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Annual Salary: ₦540,000 – ₦660,000
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Entry-level pay while undergoing basic training.
Summary Table: Nigerian Navy Non-Commissioned Officer Ranks & Salaries
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) | Annual Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Warrant Chief Petty Officer | 150,000 – 190,000 | 1,800,000 – 2,280,000 |
| Chief Petty Officer | 120,000 – 150,000 | 1,440,000 – 1,800,000 |
| Petty Officer | 90,000 – 120,000 | 1,080,000 – 1,440,000 |
| Leading Seaman | 70,000 – 90,000 | 840,000 – 1,080,000 |
| Able Seaman | 60,000 – 75,000 | 720,000 – 900,000 |
| Ordinary Seaman | 50,000 – 65,000 | 600,000 – 780,000 |
| Trainee/Recruit | 45,000 – 55,000 | 540,000 – 660,000 |
Allowances and Benefits for Non-Commissioned Officers
Apart from salaries, NCOs also receive several allowances and benefits. These make their take-home pay better than just their base salary.
Allowances
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Housing Allowance: Provided if there’s no barracks accommodation.
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Uniform Allowance: To buy and maintain uniforms.
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Transport Allowance: For official movements.
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Hazard Allowance: For those in risky duties like diving or combat.
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Leave Allowance: Paid during annual leave.
Benefits
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Free healthcare in military hospitals.
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Pension upon retirement.
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Life insurance during active service.
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Opportunity to rise to commissioned officer through exams and training.
Responsibilities of Each NCO Rank
Below is a short description of what each NCO rank does in the Nigerian Navy.
Warrant Chief Petty Officer
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Senior-most NCO.
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Advises officers and supervises lower-ranked sailors.
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Handles high-level administrative duties.
Chief Petty Officer
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Manages departments or sections.
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Directly leads teams and mentors junior sailors.
Petty Officer
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Oversees operations at the unit level.
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Reports to CPOs and ensures tasks are completed.
Leading Seaman
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Acts as team leader for small groups.
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Responsible for discipline and training of Able Seamen and below.
Able Seaman
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Skilled and experienced sailor.
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Executes technical and operational tasks.
Ordinary Seaman
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Junior-level seaman.
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Learning on the job and assisting senior sailors.
Trainee/Recruit
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Undergoing training at the naval school.
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Performs basic tasks and drills.
Tips to Rise Through the Ranks as an NCO
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Maintain discipline and good conduct at all times.
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Attend all mandatory training and pass exams.
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Show leadership and reliability in your tasks.
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Seek mentorship from senior officers.
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Volunteer for missions and special duties to gain experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About NCOs in the Nigerian Navy
Is the Nigerian Navy salary paid monthly?
Yes, all Navy personnel, including NCOs, are paid monthly.
Can an NCO become a commissioned officer?
Yes, through additional training and meeting qualifications.
Do NCOs get bonuses?
They may receive bonuses for missions, long service, or special achievements.
Is housing provided for all NCOs?
Housing is often provided in naval barracks, but if unavailable, a housing allowance is paid.
Why Many Nigerians Choose to Become NCOs
Some Nigerians choose to serve as non-commissioned officers because:
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Entry is easier compared to commissioned officer pathways.
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Steady pay and benefits.
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A chance to serve the nation and gain valuable skills.
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Opportunities for promotion and career growth.
Final Thoughts
The Nigerian Navy ranks and salary for non-commissioned officers in 2025 remain competitive, offering a reliable source of income and numerous benefits.
If you’re planning to join, understand that growth comes with dedication, discipline, and continuous learning. NCOs are the backbone of the Navy, keeping operations running smoothly and maintaining discipline at every level.
Whether you start as a recruit or rise to Warrant Chief Petty Officer, the Nigerian Navy provides a fulfilling career path.