How much does a NDA Officer earn in Nigeria?

NDA Officers are commissioned military professionals who have successfully completed officer training at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna. Serving in the Nigerian Army, Navy, or Air Force, NDA Officers are responsible for leading troops, overseeing operations, ensuring national security, and upholding the values of the Nigerian military. Their roles encompass strategic planning, training recruits, managing resources, and participating in both peacekeeping and combat missions, depending on their deployment.

The average salary for a nda officer in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.

• Entry Level (Second Lieutenant/Sub-Lieutenant/Pilot Officer, less than 2 years): 210000 - 250000
• Mid Level (Lieutenant/ Lieutenant Sub-Lieutenant, 2-5 years): 260000 - 300000
• Senior Officer (Captain/Lieutenant Commander/Flight Lieutenant and above, 5+ years): 350000 - 420000

• Secondary School Certificate (WASSCE/NECO): This is the minimum entry requirement to apply to the Nigerian Defence Academy as a regular combatant cadet.
• Bachelor’s Degree (Direct Short Service or Regular Course graduates): Cadets with a relevant university degree may apply for the Direct Short Service Course (DSSC), often attracting higher starting ranks and remuneration.

Becoming an NDA Officer in Nigeria is a process involving rigorous academic, physical, and leadership training. Below are the essential steps required to embark on this prestigious military career.

1. Obtain a West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or NECO result with at least 5 credits (including English and Mathematics).
2. Apply for admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna through the NDA admissions portal.
3. Sit for and pass the NDA entrance examination.
4. Participate in the NDA selection interview and physical screening.
5. Successfully complete the NDA’s rigorous 5-year training program (for regular combatant course), which includes academic and military studies.
6. Graduate as a commissioned officer into the Nigerian Army, Navy, or Air Force, depending on your course and branch selection.

Prospective NDA Officers must possess a minimum of five credits at the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent (WASSCE/NECO), including English Language and Mathematics. Candidates may apply directly after secondary school for the regular combatant course, or as university graduates for the Direct Short Service Course (DSSC). The NDA programs combine academic degrees with comprehensive military training.

No civilian professional certification is required, but accreditation as a commissioned military officer is granted upon successful completion of NDA programs and subsequent commissioning by the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Participation in national and international military courses (e.g., Junior Staff Course, Senior Staff Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji) may further enhance a career.

To boost your NDA Officer career on LinkedIn, create a profile highlighting your training at the Nigerian Defence Academy, leadership roles, and specific military skills. Include achievements such as successful peacekeeping deployments or special awards. Connect with fellow officers, alumni networks, and military professionals, and engage with groups related to national security and defence in Nigeria.

See how a nda officer's salary in Nigeria compares to other professions. This can help you understand your earning potential and career options.