Home › Forums › News & Current Affairs › Nigerian News › Nigerian Army ranks, symbols, and salaries: Top facts and details
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July 31, 2025 at 1:13 am #33771
tkc
Keymaster::The Nigerian Army, a crucial part of our nation’s armed forces, plays a vital role in protecting our citizens and upholding the country’s integrity. Understanding its structure, from the different ranks to their accompanying symbols and even their remuneration, offers valuable insight into this esteemed institution.
I’ve gathered some key facts and details about the Nigerian Army’s ranks, symbols, and salaries, based on information from Legit.ng, to give you a clearer picture.
Understanding the Ranks and Their Symbols
The Nigerian Army has distinct rank structures for both its non-commissioned and commissioned officers, each with unique insignia that denote a soldier’s role and status.1. Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
These ranks form the backbone of the Army, often rising from the enlisted ranks.Recruit/Trainee: No insignia. This is the entry-level for new soldiers.
Private: A single red stripe.
Lance Corporal: Two red stripes.
Corporal: Three red stripes.
Sergeant: Three red stripes with a Nigerian Coat of Arms above.
Staff Sergeant: Three red stripes with a Nigerian Coat of Arms above, enclosed in a wreath.
Warrant Officer Class II: A Nigerian Coat of Arms.
Warrant Officer Class I: A Nigerian Coat of Arms with a wreath below.
Master Warrant Officer/Master Sergeant: This is the highest non-commissioned rank, wearing the Nigerian Coat of Arms.
2. Commissioned Officers:
These officers typically hold university degrees and undergo officer training, leading and commanding troops.Second Lieutenant: One silver star.
Lieutenant: Two silver stars.
Captain: Three silver stars.
Major: A Nigerian Coat of Arms.
Lieutenant Colonel: A Nigerian Coat of Arms with one silver star.
Colonel: A Nigerian Coat of Arms with two silver stars.
Brigadier General: An emblem of a crossed sword and baton with one silver star.
Major General: An emblem of a crossed sword and baton with two silver stars.
Lieutenant General: An emblem of a crossed sword and baton with three silver stars.
General: An emblem of a crossed sword and baton surrounded by a wreath and one silver star.
Army Field Marshal/General of the Army: This is the highest rank, indicated by an emblem of a crossed sword and baton surrounded by two branches and an eagle.
The Meaning Behind the Nigerian Army Flag
The Nigerian Army flag carries significant symbolism:Eagle: Represents grace and power.
Six-pointed Star: Symbolizes Nigeria’s unity.
Arabic Writing: Translates to “Victory Comes from God Alone.”
Nigerian Army Salaries: An Overview
The salary structure in the Nigerian Army is progressive, meaning remuneration increases with rank and experience. While exact figures can fluctuate, here’s an approximate range:Lower Ranks (e.g., Recruits, Privates): Salaries can start from around N45,000 per month.
Mid-Level Ranks: As soldiers climb the ranks, their salaries increase proportionally.
High-Ranking Officers (e.g., The General): Can earn up to N1.5 million or more monthly.
It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and can be influenced by various factors, including allowances, benefits, and government policies.
Highest Authority
The President of Nigeria, currently Bola Ahmed Tinubu, holds the ultimate military authority as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.The Nigerian Army continues to be a cornerstone of national security, with its disciplined structure and dedicated personnel.
What are your thoughts on the Nigerian Army’s structure or experiences related to its operations? Share below!
Read more: https://www.legit.ng/ask-legit/guides/1127342-nigerian-army-ranks-symbols/
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