The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) stands as a vital pillar of Nigeria’s defense architecture, protecting the nation’s airspace and contributing significantly to national security.
Established on April 18, 1964, the NAF has evolved into a sophisticated military branch with a well-defined hierarchical structure.
This comprehensive guide explores the complete Nigerian Air Force ranks and salary structure as of 2025, providing valuable insights for prospective recruits, current personnel, and interested citizens.
The NAF ranking system follows a traditional military hierarchy divided into two main categories: Commissioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs), also known as airmen and airwomen.
Each rank represents not only a position in the hierarchy but also reflects the level of responsibility, experience, and expertise within the force.
Understanding the NAF rank structure and associated compensation is crucial for anyone considering a career in this prestigious branch of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The salary scales are based on the Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure (CONAFSS), which undergoes periodic reviews to maintain competitive remuneration for military personnel.
Also Read :
Commissioned Officer Ranks and Salaries
2025 Nigerian Air Force Pay Scale: Complete Breakdown of Officer and Airmen Ranks, Salaries and Benefits
Commissioned officers in the Nigerian Air Force hold positions of authority granted by presidential commission.
These officers typically enter the service through the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC), or specialized technical programs.
They form the leadership backbone of the NAF, making strategic decisions and managing operations.
1. Pilot Officer (POFT)
The Pilot Officer represents the entry-level commissioned rank in the NAF, equivalent to a Second Lieutenant in the Army. Fresh graduates from the Nigerian Defence Academy or Direct Short Service Commission typically enter at this rank.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦187,159
Responsibilities:
- Learning and developing leadership skills
- Undergoing specialized training in their designated field
- Supporting senior officers in daily operations
- Managing small teams of non-commissioned officers
Pilot Officers typically serve in this rank for 1-2 years before promotion, depending on performance evaluations and available vacancies.
2. Flying Officer (FGOFF)
The Flying Officer rank represents the second tier of commissioned officers, equivalent to a Lieutenant in the Army. This rank marks the transition from junior to more established officer status.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦218,400
Responsibilities:
- Leading small units or sections
- Implementing tactical plans developed by superior officers
- Supervising technical operations within their specialty
- Mentoring Pilot Officers and senior NCOs
Flying Officers usually spend 2-3 years at this rank before becoming eligible for promotion to Flight Lieutenant.
3. Flight Lieutenant (FLT LT)
Flight Lieutenant is a middle-ranking officer position, equivalent to Captain in the Army. At this rank, officers begin to assume more significant leadership roles.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦232,484
Responsibilities:
- Commanding flights or specialized units
- Developing tactical plans and procedures
- Training and evaluating junior officers
- Serving as staff officers at wing or group headquarters
Flight Lieutenants typically serve 3-4 years before promotion consideration to Squadron Leader.
4. Squadron Leader (SQN LDR)
The Squadron Leader is a senior officer rank equivalent to Major in the Army.
These officers command larger units and hold substantial operational responsibilities.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦248,004
Responsibilities:
- Commanding squadrons or equivalent-sized units
- Developing operational policies and procedures
- Serving as key staff officers at higher headquarters
- Providing specialized expertise in technical or operational areas
Squadron Leaders usually serve 4-5 years before promotion consideration to Wing Commander.
5. Wing Commander (WG CDR)
Wing Commander is a senior officer rank equivalent to Lieutenant Colonel in the Army. 
These officers lead major organizational elements within the Nigerian Air Force.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦342,586
Responsibilities:
- Commanding wings or equivalent large units
- Developing and implementing operational plans
- Serving as senior staff officers at command headquarters
- Managing substantial personnel and material resources
Wing Commanders typically serve 4-5 years before promotion consideration to Group Captain.
6. Group Captain (GP CAPT)
Group Captain is a senior officer rank equivalent to Colonel in the Army. These officers hold significant command and staff positions within the NAF structure.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦352,631
Responsibilities:
- Commanding NAF bases or large formations
- Developing strategic plans and policies
- Serving as directors of major departments
- Representing the NAF in joint military operations
Group Captains usually serve 4-6 years before consideration for promotion to Air Commodore.
7. Air Commodore (AIR CDRE)
Air Commodore is the first flag rank (General Officer rank), equivalent to Brigadier General in the Army. These officers serve in top leadership positions.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦677,895
Responsibilities:
- Commanding large NAF formations or bases
- Developing service-wide policies and strategies
- Serving as senior directors at NAF Headquarters
- Representing the NAF in national security forums
Air Commodores typically serve 3-4 years before consideration for promotion to Air Vice-Marshal.
8. Air Vice-Marshal (AVM)
Air Vice-Marshal is a two-star rank equivalent to Major General in the Army. These senior officers hold strategic leadership positions.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦1,376,343
Responsibilities:
- Commanding major NAF commands
- Developing and implementing strategic initiatives
- Serving as branch chiefs at Defence or Air Force Headquarters
- Participating in national defense planning
Air Vice-Marshals typically serve 3-4 years before consideration for promotion to Air Marshal.
9. Air Marshal (AM)
Air Marshal is a three-star rank equivalent to Lieutenant General in the Army. These officers occupy the highest operational leadership positions.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦1,486,451
Responsibilities:
- Commanding major operational commands
- Developing service-wide strategic plans
- Serving as Vice Chief of Air Staff or equivalent
- Representing the NAF in international forums
Air Marshals typically serve 2-3 years before consideration for promotion to Air Chief Marshal.
10. Air Chief Marshal (ACM)
Air Chief Marshal is a four-star rank equivalent to General in the Army. This rank is typically held only by the Chief of Air Staff, the highest-ranking officer in the Nigerian Air Force.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦1,724,283
Responsibilities:
- Leading the entire Nigerian Air Force
- Advising the President and Minister of Defence on air power matters
- Developing long-term strategic vision for the NAF
- Representing Nigeria in international military forums
The Air Chief Marshal serves at the pleasure of the President, typically for a 2-4 year term.
11. Marshal of the Nigerian Air Force (MNAF)
This five-star rank is honorary and ceremonial, equivalent to Field Marshal in the Army. It has never been actively occupied in the Nigerian Air Force.
Base Monthly Salary:Â Undisclosed (as the rank is ceremonial)
This rank would be reserved for extraordinary circumstances, such as wartime leadership or exceptional service to the nation.
Non-Commissioned Officer Ranks and Salaries
Non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and airmen/airwomen form the operational backbone of the Nigerian Air Force.
These personnel typically enter through direct recruitment with minimum educational requirements such as O-level certificates.
They receive specialized training and can rise through the ranks based on merit, experience, and qualifications.
1. Recruit (Trainee)
Recruits are personnel undergoing basic military training. This is a temporary status rather than a formal rank.
Basic Monthly Stipend: ₦10,237
Responsibilities:
- Undergoing basic military training
- Learning NAF values, traditions, and protocols
- Developing physical fitness and military skills
- Preparing for specialized technical training
Recruits typically spend 6-9 months in training before promotion to Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman.
2. Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman (ACM/ACW)
This is the entry-level rank for enlisted personnel who have completed basic training, equivalent to Private in the Army.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦53,892
Responsibilities:
- Performing basic operational and support duties
- Undergoing specialized training in assigned fields
- Supporting unit operations under supervision
- Maintaining equipment and facilities
Aircraftmen/Aircraftwomen typically serve 2-3 years before promotion to Lance Corporal.
3. Lance Corporal (LCPL)
Lance Corporal is the first junior NCO rank, representing the initial step into leadership responsibilities.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦55,832
Responsibilities:
- Leading small teams of Aircraftmen/Aircraftwomen
- Performing specialized technical duties
- Assisting in training new recruits
- Supporting administrative functions
Lance Corporals typically serve 2-3 years before promotion to Corporal.
4. Corporal (CPL)
Corporals are junior NCOs with established leadership experience and technical proficiency.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦58,634
Responsibilities:
- Supervising small sections or teams
- Performing advanced technical duties
- Training junior personnel
- Managing equipment and resources
Corporals typically serve 3-4 years before promotion to Sergeant.
5. Sergeant (SGT)
Sergeant is a senior NCO rank with substantial technical expertise and leadership responsibilities.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦69,261
Responsibilities:
- Leading sections or specialized units
- Providing technical expertise in specialized fields
- Implementing policies and procedures
- Mentoring junior NCOs
Sergeants typically serve 4-5 years before promotion to Flight Sergeant.
6. Flight Sergeant (FS)
Flight Sergeants are senior NCOs with extensive experience and leadership capabilities.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦87,119
Responsibilities:
- Supervising multiple sections or flights
- Serving as technical advisors to officers
- Managing administrative functions
- Training and developing junior NCOs
Flight Sergeants typically serve 4-5 years before promotion to Warrant Officer.
7. Warrant Officer (WO)
Warrant Officers are senior NCOs with substantial experience and expertise who bridge the gap between enlisted personnel and commissioned officers.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦101,974
Responsibilities:
- Serving as senior technical advisors
- Managing squadron-level administrative functions
- Enforcing standards and discipline
- Mentoring junior NCOs and officers
Warrant Officers typically serve 3-4 years before promotion to Master Warrant Officer.
8. Master Warrant Officer (MWO)
Master Warrant Officers represent highly experienced NCOs with extensive leadership and technical expertise.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦165,697
Responsibilities:
- Serving as senior enlisted advisors at wing level
- Providing guidance on enlisted matters to commanders
- Developing and implementing training programs
- Representing enlisted concerns to senior leadership
Master Warrant Officers typically serve 2-3 years before promotion to Air Warrant Officer.
9. Air Warrant Officer (AWO)
Air Warrant Officer is the highest non-commissioned rank in the Nigerian Air Force, representing the pinnacle of enlisted achievement.
Base Monthly Salary: ₦171,793
Responsibilities:
- Serving as the senior enlisted advisor to the Chief of Air Staff
- Representing all enlisted personnel at the highest levels
- Advising on policies affecting airmen and airwomen
- Maintaining traditions and standards of the NAF
Air Warrant Officers typically serve until retirement, which may be extended for exceptional performers.
Allowances, Benefits, and Additional Compensation
The base salaries listed above represent only part of the total compensation package for Nigerian Air Force personnel. A comprehensive array of allowances and benefits significantly enhances the overall remuneration, reflecting the unique demands and sacrifices of military service.
Regular Allowances
1. Uniform Allowance
All NAF personnel receive funds for the maintenance and replacement of uniforms, ensuring proper military appearance.
Approximate Annual Amount:
- Officers: ₦50,000 – ₦120,000 (varies by rank)
- NCOs/Airmen: ₦30,000 – ₦70,000 (varies by rank)
2. Ration/Feeding Allowance
This allowance covers food expenses, particularly important during field operations or when personnel are unable to access military dining facilities.
Daily Rate: ₦3,000 (recently increased from ₦1,500)
This rate may be higher for personnel deployed on special operations or in remote locations.
3. Transport Allowance
Provided to cover transportation costs when official transportation is not available.
Monthly Range:
- Officers: ₦20,000 – ₦50,000 (varies by rank)
- NCOs/Airmen: ₦10,000 – ₦30,000 (varies by rank)
4. Housing/Accommodation Allowance
While many NAF personnel live in military barracks or official quarters, those without access to military housing receive an allowance to offset accommodation costs.
Monthly Range:
- Junior Officers: ₦25,000 – ₦50,000
- Senior Officers: ₦50,000 – ₦150,000
- NCOs/Airmen: ₦15,000 – ₦40,000
Rates vary based on rank and location, with personnel stationed in major cities typically receiving higher allowances.
Special Duty Allowances
1. Flying Allowance
Pilots and aircrew receive additional compensation for flight duties, recognizing the special skills and risks involved.
Monthly Range:
- Pilots: ₦50,000 – ₦200,000 (varies by rank and aircraft type)
- Aircrew: ₦30,000 – ₦100,000 (varies by role and rank)
2. Hazard/Risk Allowance
Personnel exposed to dangerous conditions or deployed to combat zones receive additional compensation.
Monthly Range: ₦20,000 – ₦100,000 (depends on risk level and deployment location)
3. Technical Allowance
Specialists in technical fields such as aircraft maintenance, avionics, and weapons systems receive additional compensation for their expertise.
Monthly Range: ₦15,000 – ₦70,000 (varies by specialty and qualification level)
4. Command Allowance
Officers in command positions receive additional compensation for their leadership responsibilities.
Monthly Range: ₦20,000 – ₦150,000 (varies by command level and size of unit)
Healthcare Benefits
NAF personnel and their immediate families receive comprehensive medical care at military hospitals and designated healthcare facilities. This significant benefit includes:
- Free or subsidized outpatient care
- Hospital admission when necessary
- Access to specialized treatments
- Pharmacy services
- Dental care
- Preventive health services
Senior officers may also receive allowances for medical treatment abroad when specialized care is required.
Leave and Time Off
NAF personnel are entitled to various types of leave:
- Annual Leave: 30 days per year for most personnel
- Casual Leave: Short-term leave for personal matters
- Sick Leave: As medically necessary
- Maternity Leave: As per national policy (currently 6 months)
- Study Leave: For approved educational pursuits
Retirement Benefits
The Nigerian Air Force provides substantial retirement benefits to personnel who complete their service:
1. Gratuity
A lump sum payment based on final salary and years of service.
Calculation:Â Typically 300% of annual salary multiplied by years of service (subject to a maximum)
2. Pension
Monthly payments for life after retirement.
Calculation:Â Percentage of final salary based on years of service (typically 70-80% for those completing full service)
3. Special Benefits for Senior Officers
Retiring high-ranking officers receive additional benefits, including:
- Annual medical allowance of up to $20,000 for treatment abroad
- Official vehicles (including armored vehicles for certain ranks)
- Personal staff and security details
- Housing allowances or official accommodation
Education and Training
NAF personnel benefit from continuous education and professional development opportunities:
- Specialized military training courses
- Technical certifications
- Academic study opportunities (including sponsorship for higher education)
- International training exchanges
Promotion and Career Advancement
Promotion within the Nigerian Air Force brings not only increased responsibility but also significant financial benefits:
- Immediate salary increase upon promotion
- Access to higher allowance rates
- Improved retirement benefits
- Enhanced leadership opportunities
How to Join the Nigerian Air Force
For those inspired by the career opportunities and benefits offered by the Nigerian Air Force, there are several pathways to enlistment:
1. Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)
The NDA offers a comprehensive military education leading to a commission as a Pilot Officer.
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship
- Age 17-21 years
- Minimum of 5 credits in SSCE/GCE/NECO (including Mathematics and English)
- Physical fitness
- Successful completion of entrance examination and interview
Application Process:
- Purchase application forms when advertised (usually January-March)
- Complete and submit application online
- Take entrance examination
- Attend interview and medical screening if successful
- Final selection
2. Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC)
The DSSC allows professionals with specialized skills to receive direct commissions into the NAF.
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship
- Bachelor’s degree or HND in relevant fields
- Age 25-30 years (may vary for specialized professions)
- Physical fitness
- No criminal record
Application Process:
- Apply when recruitment is advertised
- Submit required documents
- Attend screening and interview
- Medical evaluation
- Final selection
Check NAF DSSC Application Updates
3. Non-Commissioned Recruitment (Airmen/Airwomen)
This pathway is for those joining at the enlisted level.
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship
- Age 18-22 years
- Minimum of 5 credits in SSCE/GCE/NECO (including Mathematics and English)
- Physical fitness
- No criminal record
Application Process:
- Apply online when recruitment is advertised
- Attend screening at designated centers
- Take aptitude tests
- Medical evaluation
- Final selection
Career Development in the Nigerian Air Force
A career in the Nigerian Air Force offers numerous opportunities for growth and specialization:
Specialized Career Fields
The NAF offers careers in diverse specialties including:
Aviation Operations
- Pilots
- Air Traffic Controllers
- Flight Operations Specialists
- Technical Fields
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineers
- Avionics Technicians
- Weapons Systems Specialists
- Administrative and Support
- Logistics Officers
- Finance Specialists
- Human ResourcSpecialists
- Special Operations
- Special Forces
- Regiment Personnel
- SeResourcSpecialists
- Professional Services
- Medical Personnel
- Legal Officers
- Education Officers
Advancement Opportunities
NAF personnel can advance through:
- Promotion Based on Merit: Regular evaluation determines eligibility for promotion to higher ranks
- Specialized Training: Additional qualifications can lead to career advancement
- Advanced Education: Pursuing higher education can accelerate career growth
- Command Appointments: Selection for command positions enhances career progression
Nigerian Air Force Recruitment Calendar
The Nigerian Air Force typically conducts recruitment exercises according to the following annual schedule:
Commissioned Officers
- NDA Admissions: Application usually opens in January-February, with examinations in April-May
- Direct Short Service Commission: Typically advertised in March-April and September-October
- Specialist Officers: Recruitment based on service needs, usually advertised quarterly
Non-Commissioned Officers (Airmen/Airwomen)
- Regular Recruitment: Major intake usually advertised in August-September
- Trade Specialists: Specialized recruitment may occur throughout the year based on service needs
To stay informed about recruitment opportunities, regularly check:
- Official NAF Website
- NAF Social Media Channels
- National newspapers and online news portals
Conclusion
The Nigerian Air Force offers a structured and rewarding career path with clear progression through its rank system.
The comprehensive compensation package—combining base salaries with various allowances and benefits—provides financial stability and recognizes the unique demands of military service.
For those considering a career in the NAF, understanding the rank structure, salary scales, and benefits is crucial for making informed decisions.
The force continues to modernize its personnel policies to attract and retain the best talent, ensuring Nigeria’s aerial defense remains in capable hands.
Whether aspiring to join as a commissioned officer or an airman/airwoman, the Nigerian Air Force provides opportunities for professional development, specialized training, and a meaningful career in service to the nation.
The combination of competitive compensation, career advancement prospects, and the honor of serving in a prestigious military
