Nigerian Navy Ranks and Salary Structure Explained (2025 Update)

The Nigerian Navy is the maritime arm of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and they are responsible for defending Nigeria's maritime borders.

Nigerians and prospective members of the Nigerian Navy need to understand the salary structure of the Navy so that they can make informed career decisions and also understand the public perception of the military. 

In this article, you’ll learn all about the Nigerian Navy and its salary structure.

Nigerian Navy Command Structure

Commissioned Officers (COs)

These are officers who are leadership and management personnel in the Navy. They hold decision-making positions in the Navy. To be a commissioned officer, you must have completed at least a first degree from the Nigeria Defense Academy or any accredited institution and have taken the Direct Short Service training. 

Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs)

These are officers who are enlisted in the Navy through recruitment exercises or training schools; they are skilled personnel who handle technical and administrative duties in the Navy. 

How promotions work in both categories.

Promotions for commissioned officers and non-commissioned officers are a bit different. For commissioned officers, promotions are given to deserving personnel who must pass promotional examinations and have exhibited leadership. A commissioned officer can rise to the rank of an admiral.

For noncommissioned officers, promotion is given based on experience, discipline, and conduct. NCOs can be recommended for promotion by their superiors after showcasing outstanding service. An NCO can rise to the position of a master warrant officer. 

Full List of Nigerian Navy Ranks (2025)

Commissioned Officers (from highest to lowest)

• Admiral of the Fleet

• Admiral

• Vice Admiral

• Rear Admiral

• Commodore

• Captain

• Commander

• Lieutenant Commander

• Lieutenant

• Sub-Lieutenant

• Acting Sub-Lieutenant

• Midshipman
  
  

Non-Commissioned Officers (from highest to lowest)

• Warrant Chief Petty Officer

• Chief Petty Officer

• Petty Officer

• Leading Rating

• Able Seaman

• Ordinary Seaman

• Trainee/Recruit
  
  

Nigerian Navy Salary Structure (2025)

This is the salary structure before the implementation of the 70,000 naira minimum wage.

A. Commissioned Officers' Monthly Salaries

Rank	Salary
Admiral	1,728,285
Vice Admiral	1,496,458
Rear Admiral	1,376,349
Commodore	744,589
Captain	459,003
Commander	402,976
Lieutenant Commander	340,967
Lieutenant	293,482
Sub-Lieutenant	219,401
Midshipman	188,159

B. Non-Commissioned Officers' Monthly Salaries

Rank	Salary
Navy Warrant Officer	165,693
Master Warrant Officer	101970
Warrant Officer	75267
Leading Seaman	68630
Able Seaman	60,834
Seaman	57567
Ordinary Seaman	53891

Disclaimer: variations in salary can occur depending on several factors, which include duty location, years of service, and allowances.

6. How to Join the Nigerian Navy in 2025

• Steps for DSSC (Direct Short Service), SSC, and regular recruitment
  
  

• Requirements and qualifications
  
  

• Link to official recruitment portal
  
  

• Tips for success in selection

Steps for DSSC (Direct Short Service) recruitment application

• Visit the official website of the Nigerian Navy and create an account.

• Fill out the DSSC application form.

• Upload the required credentials for enrollment.

• After successful completion of the application, print out your application acknowledgement slip and await shortlisting.

Requirements to be shortlisted for DSSC recruitment 

• To be shortlisted for the DSSC recruitment exercise, you must: 

• Be a Nigerian citizen by birth.

• Be 22–40 years old

• Have a bachelor’s degree or HND (minimum Second Class Lower or Lower Credit)

• Have your NYSC certificate or an exemption letter.

• Be physically and mentally fit.

• Have no criminal record

Short Service Commission (SSC)

The SSC is for Nigerian graduates who do not wish to serve long-term in the Nigerian Navy.

Steps for DSSC (Direct Short Service) recruitment application

• Visit the official website of the Nigerian Navy.

• Register and fill out the SSC application form.

• Upload the required documents for the application.

• Submit and print out the confirmation slip.

• Participate in the aptitude tests, interviews, and medicals if shortlisted.

Requirements to be shortlisted for SSC recruitment 

To be enlisted for the SSC recruitment, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Nigerian citizen by birth.

• Your age should be between 22 and 28 years.

• You should have a bachelor’s degree or HND in a relevant field.

• NYSC certificate or exemption letter

• You should be medically fit.

Regular Recruitment (Ratings/Enlisted Personnel)

Steps for the regular recruitment application

• Visit the official Nigerian Navy website.

• Create an account and select "Regular Recruitment."

• Fill out the online form correctly.

• Upload all required documents.

• Submit and print your application slip.

• Attend the zonal screening and training if shortlisted.

Requirements to be shortlisted for regular recruitment 

To be shortlisted for the regular recruitment service of the Nigerian Navy, you must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen.

• Be between the ages of 18 and 22 years for non-tradesmen/women.

• Be between the ages of 18 and 26 years for tradesmen/women.

• Have at least 5 credits in SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB, including math and English language.

• Have no criminal record

• Be physically fit and single.

Tips for Success in the Nigerian Navy Selection Process

To be successful in your application process and be shortlisted, here are a few tips to give you an edge over other candidates:

• Understand the entry requirements.

• Prepare for the aptitude test.

• Build Physical Fitness

• Organize Your Documents

• Be Disciplined and Smart During Screening

• Be honest and don’t forge any documents.

• Know the Nigerian Navy Basics.

• Follow the official Nigerian Navy channels for updates.

• Network with past candidates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is the Nigerian Navy training allowance in 2025?

The training allowance differs for recruits training: Monthly Allowance: ₦10,500 to ₦15,000; Graduate Training (DSSC/SSC) allowance is between ₦15,000 and ₦25,000.

What is the retirement age in the Nigerian Navy?

The retirement age in the Nigerian Navy is 60 years of age or 35 years of service.

Does the Nigerian Navy provide accommodation?

Yes, the Nigerian Navy provides accommodation for naval officers.

Can a civilian visit a naval base?

Yes, a civilian can visit a naval base, but it must be by proper authorization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you want to join the Nigerian Navy, you must understand the requirements for joining and the criteria for selection. 

Choose the recruitment process that suits your qualifications and follow the stipulated instructions; you could be shortlisted. 

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