2025 Nigerian Air Force Salary Breakdown: From Cadets to Top Officers

If you are planning to join the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) or are simply curious about how much its officers and airmen earn, understanding the salary structure is important. The NAF, like other branches of the Armed Forces, follows a well-structured pay scale that depends on rank, years of service, and duties. In addition to salaries, personnel also enjoy allowances and benefits that boost their overall earnings.

Salary Structure for Commissioned Officers

Commissioned officers are those who enter through the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC), or related entry routes. Their salaries are among the highest in the force due to leadership responsibilities.

• Air Chief Marshal – ₦1,724,283 monthly
• Air Marshal – ₦1,486,451 monthly
• Air Vice Marshal – ₦1,376,343 monthly
• Air Commodore – ₦677,895 monthly
• Group Captain – ₦352,631 monthly
• Wing Commander – ₦342,586 monthly
• Squadron Leader – ₦248,004 monthly
• Flight Lieutenant – ₦232,484 monthly
• Flying Officer – ₦218,400 monthly
• Pilot Officer – ₦187,159 monthly

Salary Structure for Non-Commissioned Officers & Airmen

Airmen and other non-commissioned officers form the backbone of the Air Force. Their salaries increase steadily as they move up in rank.

• Air Warrant Officer – ₦171,793 monthly
• Master Warrant Officer – ₦165,697 monthly
• Warrant Officer – ₦101,974 monthly
• Flight Sergeant – ₦87,119 monthly
• Sergeant – ₦69,261 monthly
• Corporal – ₦58,634 monthly
• Lance Corporal – ₦55,832 monthly
• Aircraftman/Woman – ₦53,892 monthly
• Cadet (Trainee) – ₦44,564 monthly

Allowances and Benefits

Beyond basic salaries, NAF personnel enjoy several allowances and welfare packages, including:

• Housing allowance
• Transport allowance
• Medical care
• Uniform allowance
• Hazard and operational duty pay
• Retirement pension and gratuity

These benefits make the Air Force not only a patriotic career choice but also a stable and rewarding profession.

Conclusion

The Nigerian Air Force salary structure shows that a career in the military provides both financial stability and growth opportunities. With steady promotions, competitive allowances, and other welfare benefits, joining the NAF is a great option for Nigerians interested in serving their country while building a solid career.