Nigeria Civil Defense Ranks and Salary Structure: The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) is a para-military institution of the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that is instructed to take action against threats and any form of attack or disaster against the nation and its citizens.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps were first introduced in May 1967 during the Nigerian civil war in the then Federal Capital Territory of Lagos with the aim of raising awareness and protecting the civilian population. It was then known as the Lagos Civil Defense Committee.
It later changed to the current Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps in 1970. Initially, the Corps aimed to conduct some educational and enlightenment campaigns in and around the federal capital of Lagos, to make members of the civilian population susceptible to enemy attacks. and how to save themselves from the danger like most Nigerians living in and around the territory of Lagos, then they had little or no knowledge about war and its implications.
The rank structures of NSCDC align with other Nigerian paramilitary agencies, offering clear career progression paths based on qualifications and performance.
Contents
Nigeria Civil Defense Ranks (NSCDC)
The structure of Nigeria Civil Defense have lower and higher ranks just like we have it in other forces in Nigeria such as in the Nigerian Police, Army, Navy, Airforce.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) often uses a structured rank system, much like the military and police, to organize authority, responsibilities, and career progression.
NSCDC, just like in Nigeria’s civil service, each rank is tied to a grade level, which determines salary, allowances, and promotion eligibility. Promotion is based on qualifications, training, performance, and years of service. Qualification Influence:
- SSCE holders usually start in the Assistant Cadre.
- ND/NCE holders often start in the Inspectorate Cadre.
- Degree holders start as ASC II in the Officer Cadre.
The Nigeria Civil Defense Ranks is as follows:
- Assistant Cadre- Level 3 to 5 (The lowest ranking officer in the NSCDC)
- Inspectorate Cadre- Level 6 to 12
- Assistant Superintendent Cadre II (ASC) Level 8
- Assistant Superintendent Cadre I (ASC)Level 9
- Deputy Superintendent Cadre (DSC) Level 10
- Superintendent Cadre (SC) Level 11
- Chief Superintendent Cadre (CSC) Level 12
- Assistant Commander (AC) Level 13
- Deputy Commander (DC) Level 14
- Chief Commander (CC) Level 15
- Assistant Commandant General (ACG) Level 16
- Deputy Commandant General (DCG) Level 17
- Commandant General CG (The highest rank in the NSCDC) Level 18
Here’s the details explanation in a clear and top-to-bottom ranks breakdown and their role and responsibility:
1. Commissioned Officer Ranks (Senior leadership and command roles)
These are the top decision-makers and commanders in the NSCDC.
| Rank | Role & Responsibility | Grade Level |
|---|---|---|
| Commandant General (CG) | The head of the entire NSCDC; sets policy, oversees nationwide operations, represents the Corps nationally and internationally. | Level 18 |
| Deputy Commandant General (DCG) | Assists the CG; oversees specific departments such as operations, administration, or intelligence. | Level 17 |
| Assistant Commandant General (ACG) | Heads directorates or zones; supervises multiple state commands. | Level 16 |
| Chief Commander (CC) | Manages a state command or a major operational division. | Level 15 |
| Deputy Commander (DC) | Assists the CC in running a state command or division. | Level 14 |
| Assistant Commander (AC) | Heads specific units within a state or large operational command. | Level 13 |
| Chief Superintendent of Corps (CSC) | Oversees specialized units (training, logistics, etc.). | Level 12 |
| Superintendent of Corps (SC) | Senior field officer responsible for tactical and operational planning. | Level 11 |
| Deputy Superintendent of Corps (DSC) | Supervises teams, reports to higher-ranking officers. | Level 10 |
| Assistant Superintendent of Corps I (ASC I) | Junior commissioned officer; may lead a small unit or department. | Level 9 |
| Assistant Superintendent of Corps II (ASC II) | Entry-level commissioned officer rank, often fresh graduates from the academy. | Level 8 |
2. Inspectorate Cadre (Mid-level supervisory roles)
These NSCDC officers bridge the gap between top command and junior ranks. They supervise field operations and handle specialized duties.
-
Principal Inspector of Corps (PIC)
-
Chief Inspector of Corps (CIC)
-
Senior Inspector of Corps (SIC)
-
Inspector of Corps (IC)
Grade Levels: Around 6–12 depending on position and years of service.
Duties: Supervision of patrol teams, training of recruits, enforcement of regulations in the field.
3. Assistant Cadre (Entry-level and operational staff)
These are the foundation of the Corps field operatives, guards, and basic support staff.
- Corps Assistant I (CA I) – Level 5
- Corps Assistant II (CA II) – Level 4
- Corps Assistant III (CA III) – Level 3
Duties: Routine patrols, guard duties, assisting in operations, crowd control, and disaster response
Meaning of Nigeria Civil Defence Logo
The NSCDC emblem vividly communicates strength, vigilance, integrity, and readiness to act. Each element reinforces the Corps’ mandate to protect lives, preserve peace, and uphold unity across Nigeria.
The meaning behind the NSCDC Logo above include:
- Eagle: Symbolizes strength, vigilance, and authority—a common emblem of national defense and oversight in many security institutions.
- Eye beneath the crest: Represents covert monitoring and intelligence capability—reflecting the Corps’ role in discreet surveillance and investigation.
- Shovel-like symbol: Conveys the ability to “dig into” or uncover hidden threats or historical secrets—a metaphor for investigative and protective work.
- Axe: Evokes readiness for battle and active defense, symbolizing both protection and actionable response.
- Wavy white pall: Alludes to the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers at Lokoja, linking the Corps to national unity, geography, and identity.
- Motto “Defending the Defenceless”: Clearly states the Corps’ guiding principle—protecting those who cannot protect themselves.
- Circular border (black, white, red)
-
Black: Authority and power
-
White: Integrity and purity
-
Red: Courage, sacrifice, and readiness to face danger
-
Nigeria Civil Defence Salary Structure
The Nigeria Civil Defense Salary Structure depends on officers ranks, level and promotions. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) salary structure follows the CONPASS system (Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure), which is similar to the Nigerian Immigration, Customs, and FRSC pay scale.
The NSCDC Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has a defined hierarchy structure, with each level and rank having its own average salary. So, let us get in and discuss these salary structures. Below is an approximate breakdown of the monthly and annual salaries structure for NSCDC officers:
| Rank | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commandant General | ₦620,000 – ₦850,000 | ₦7.4m – ₦10.2m | |
| Deputy Commandant General | ₦550,000 – ₦700,000 | ₦6.6m – ₦8.4m | |
| Assistant Commandant General | ₦480,000 – ₦620,000 | ₦5.7m – ₦7.4m | |
| Chief Commander | ₦420,000 – ₦580,000 | ₦5.0m – ₦7.0m | |
| Deputy Commander | ₦350,000 – ₦500,000 | ₦4.2m – ₦6.0m | |
| Assistant Commander | ₦300,000 – ₦450,000 | ₦3.6m – ₦5.4m | |
| Chief Superintendent of Corps | ₦250,000 – ₦400,000 | ₦3.0m – ₦4.8m | |
| Superintendent of Corps | ₦220,000 – ₦350,000 | ₦2.6m – ₦4.2m | |
| Deputy Superintendent of Corps | ₦200,000 – ₦300,000 | ₦2.4m – ₦3.6m | |
| Assistant Superintendent of Corps I | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 | ₦2.1m – ₦3.0m | |
| Assistant Superintendent of Corps II | ₦170,000 – ₦220,000 | ₦2.0m – ₦2.6m | |
| Inspectorate Cadre (Senior Inspector | ₦120,000 – ₦170,000 | ₦1.4m – ₦2.0m | |
| Assistant Inspectorate Cadre | ₦110,000 – ₦150,000 | ₦1.3m – ₦1.8m | |
| Corps Assistant I | ₦90,000 – ₦120,000 | ₦1.0m – ₦1.4m | |
| Corps Assistant II | ₦80,000 – ₦110,000 | ₦960k – ₦1.3m | |
| Corps Assistant III | ₦75,000 – ₦100,000 | ₦900k – ₦1.2m |
How To Apply For Nigerian Civil Defence
During application for Nigerian Civil Defence recruitments, registration can be done online.
- Visit NSCDS with the official website: nscdc.gov.ng or recruitment portal: nscdc.gov.ng/nscdc-careers/
- Then click on the link to the register.
- Complete and view all online forms that you have received to prevent errors. Then submit your application.
- Print all forms that you have received as proof of registration.
- Complete all forms that must be completed offline.
Application Requirements For Nigerian Civil Defence
- Applicants must be of Nigerian nationality by naturalization or by birth.
- Applicants may not be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Male applicants may not be less than 1.7 meters and female applicants may not be less than 1.64 meters.
- Applicants must be fully and medically fit and must not have medical conditions related to vision, hearing, stuttering, flatfoot, tattoos, etc. In addition, applicants have never undergone major orthopedic surgery.
- In addition, applicants must be able to offer good health.
Responsibilities of NSCDC
The NSCDC is responsible for enabling the state to assess the risk (for biological, chemical, conventional wars, and unconventional security threats) and take precautionary measures to solve it. However, the professional responsibilities of its employees depend on his/ her role in the department. Let us discuss some of their broader professional responsibilities for a clearer picture.
- Minimizing the number of casualties due to conventional wars or intra-state crisis situations.
- Providing active civilian support to those in war situations.
- Coordinating the activities of government agencies and private entities for public welfare.
- Supervising, monitoring, and evaluating the programs for state disaster management.
- Making sure the effective crisis management programs are implemented effectively.
- Some other duties include preventing vandalization, rescuing civilians, regulating the private guard company, and managing disasters.
I wish to know if one is to pay uniform and training kits when shortlisted for training in Nscdc, and the amount??