History Of Nigeria Army
The Nigeria Army evolved from the Royal West African Frontier Force established by the British colonial government. After Nigeria’s independence in 1960, the Army became the land force of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Since then, it has played a major role in peacekeeping across Africa and defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
Functions Of Nigeria Army
The Army safeguards Nigeria’s borders, protects its citizens, and contributes to internal security. Locally, for example, troops support civil authorities during floods in Kogi State or security operations in Borno. Internationally, they’ve participated in ECOWAS missions in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Nigeria Army Ranks And Symbols
The Army has commissioned officer ranks (from Second Lieutenant up to General) and non-commissioned ranks (Private to Warrant Officer). Each rank has distinct symbols or insignia such as stars, swords, and eagles that signify authority and responsibility. These symbols are explained further on the official Nigeria Army website.
Nigeria Army Salary Structure 2025
Salaries depend on rank. For 2025, a Private earns about ₦50,000 monthly, a Captain earns ₦220,000–₦250,000, while a General can receive ₦1.5 million or more. In addition to base salary, officers receive allowances such as housing, operations, and hazard pay.
Nigeria Army Motto And Headquarters
The motto is “Victory is From God Alone,” reflecting reliance on divine strength. The Army’s headquarters is located in Abuja, symbolizing national unity and central command.
Nigeria Army Training Duration
Basic recruit training takes about six months, while officer cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) undergo five years of academic and military training. The DSSC and SSC programs run for about 9–12 months.
Nigeria Army Weapons And Equipment
The Army uses AK-47 rifles, armored personnel carriers, artillery, helicopters, and drones. Locally manufactured armored vehicles are also deployed for counter-insurgency operations.
Nigeria Army Strength 2025
In 2025, the Army has an estimated 120,000 active-duty personnel. This makes it one of Africa’s strongest land forces, backed by reserves and paramilitary support.
Recruitment And Career Path
Recruitment happens through portals like 90RRI (for regular intake), DSSC, and SSC. Applicants can always rely on Jobcallup.com for updates on requirements, application steps, and shortlisted candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Nigeria Army
What is the history of the Nigeria Army?
The Army began as part of the Royal West African Frontier Force in 1900. After Nigeria’s independence in 1960, it became an independent military force responsible for defending the country and maintaining peace. The Army has since been involved in civil wars, peacekeeping in Liberia and Sierra Leone, and counter-terrorism operations within Nigeria.
What are the functions of the Nigeria Army?
The Army defends Nigeria’s sovereignty, fights insurgencies, participates in peacekeeping, aids civil authorities during crises, and provides humanitarian support during disasters such as flooding in coastal states.
What are the ranks in the Nigeria Army?
Ranks are divided into Commissioned Officers (Second Lieutenant to General) and Non-Commissioned Officers (Private to Warrant Officer). Each rank determines responsibilities, authority, and salary structure.
What is the lowest rank in the Nigeria Army?
The lowest rank is Private, usually assigned to new recruits after completing their six-month training.
What is the highest rank in the Nigeria Army?
The highest substantive rank is General. There is also Field Marshal, but it is largely ceremonial and rarely awarded.
What is the Nigeria Army salary structure 2025?
In 2025, a recruit earns about ₦50,000, a Lieutenant earns ₦200,000–₦250,000, while a General can earn ₦1.5 million monthly. Additional allowances include housing, uniform, and operational duty pay.
How long is Nigeria Army training?
Training lasts about six months for recruits, 9–12 months for SSC/DSSC candidates, and up to five years for officer cadets at NDA who pursue academic degrees alongside military education.
What is the motto of the Nigeria Army?
The motto is “Victory is From God Alone,” representing reliance on divine guidance in all operations.
Where is the Nigeria Army headquarters?
The Nigeria Army headquarters is at Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, coordinating the Army’s nationwide operations.
How do I join the Nigeria Army?
You can apply via the official recruitment portal at recruitment.army.mil.ng or follow verified updates at Jobcallup.com. Applicants must meet age, health, and educational requirements.
What is the Nigeria Army DSSC recruitment?
The Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) recruitment is for graduates and professionals who undergo shorter training to serve as officers in specialized roles like engineering, medical, or legal services.
What is the Nigeria Army SSC recruitment?
The Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC) is for graduates who want to join combat roles. They undergo military training for about 9–12 months and serve for a limited period, often renewable.
What is the Nigeria Army 90RRI portal?
The 90RRI is the 90th Regular Recruit Intake portal where non-graduate recruits apply for enlistment into entry-level ranks of the Army.
What are Nigeria Army recruitment requirements?
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18–22 for non-graduates, 18–28 for graduates, have at least 4–5 credits in O’level exams, be medically fit, and meet the Army’s physical standards.
What is the difference between Nigeria Army and Navy?
The Army defends land territories while the Navy secures Nigeria’s maritime borders. For example, the Army handles insurgencies in the Northeast, while the Navy combats oil theft in the Niger Delta.
How does Nigeria Army salary compare to police?
Army salaries are generally higher than police salaries at equivalent levels. For example, an Army Captain earns around ₦220,000–₦250,000 while a Police Superintendent earns slightly less with fewer allowances.
How does Nigeria Army strength compare to US Army?
The US Army has over a million active personnel with advanced technology. Nigeria’s Army has about 120,000 active troops, focusing on regional security and counter-insurgency.
Do Nigerian Army officers retire with pension?
Yes, officers and soldiers who serve the required number of years (usually 35 or upon reaching retirement age) are entitled to pensions and gratuities.
What are Nigeria Army weapons?
The Army uses rifles like the AK-47, armored personnel carriers, artillery, and surveillance drones. Locally manufactured vehicles have also been deployed in counter-terror operations.
Do graduates get special entry ranks?
Yes, graduates entering through DSSC or SSC often start as Second Lieutenants or Lieutenants, depending on qualifications and specialization.