In Nigeria, military doctors enjoy a unique salary and allowance structure that reflects both their medical expertise and their role as commissioned officers. Pay is influenced by two main factors: rank within the military hierarchy and entitlement to allowances. This means a newly commissioned medical officer earns differently from a senior consultant who holds a higher command position.
For 2025, estimates place entry-level monthly take-home pay for military doctors between ₦200,000 and ₦400,000, mid-level officers between ₦350,000 and ₦700,000, and senior consultants or colonels between ₦700,000 and ₦1.5 million or more.
How Military Doctor Pay is Determined
The salary of a military doctor is not fixed across the board. It is shaped by:
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Military Rank – Higher ranks attract higher basic salaries.
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Medical Specialisation – Specialists often receive extra allowances.
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Posting Location – Serving in high-risk or combat zones increases earnings.
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Years of Service – Experience influences promotion and pay increments.
Estimated Monthly Salary Ranges by Rank (2025)
| Rank | Estimated Base Salary (₦) | Estimated Total with Allowances (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant / Captain | 180,000 – 300,000 | 220,000 – 400,000 |
| Major | 300,000 – 450,000 | 350,000 – 600,000 |
| Lt-Colonel | 450,000 – 800,000 | 500,000 – 900,000 |
| Colonel / Brigadier & above | 700,000 – 1,500,000+ | 800,000 – 2,000,000+ |
Note: These figures are estimates and may vary depending on allowances, special duties, and operational deployments.
Key Allowances and Benefits for Military Doctors
Apart from their basic salary, military doctors are entitled to a variety of allowances, some of which significantly boost their total earnings:
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Housing Allowance or Service Accommodation – Officers may receive cash housing allowance or live in official quarters.
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Hazard Allowance – Paid to those working in risky or combat zones.
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Uniform Allowance – For the upkeep and replacement of uniforms.
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Command Allowance – For officers in leadership positions.
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Transport/Duty Tour Allowance – For official travel.
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Medical Benefits – Free or subsidised healthcare for the officer and their dependents.
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Operational/Mission Allowances – Paid during peacekeeping or special operations.
Why Salaries Differ Among Military Doctors
Several factors explain the differences in earnings:
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Rank – Promotions bring significant salary jumps.
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Special Duties – Certain assignments come with extra pay.
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Deployment Status – Field postings attract hazard and operational allowances.
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Service Branch – Army, Navy, and Air Force sometimes have minor variations in benefits.
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Government Policy – Salary reviews and adjustments can change earnings.
How to Confirm the Exact Pay for Your Role
If you are joining or currently serving, here are steps to know your precise earnings:
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Request the latest pay scale from your service branch’s pay office.
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Ask for a breakdown of allowances applicable to your posting.
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Review your payslip regularly to confirm correct payments.
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Keep track of any government circulars that revise pay or allowances.
Financial Tips for Military Doctors
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Track your payslips to ensure all allowances are included.
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Understand deployment entitlements before taking up high-risk assignments.
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Plan for retirement using the military pension scheme.
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Consider insurance for additional protection beyond military benefits.
FAQs
1. What is the starting salary for a military doctor in Nigeria in 2025?
A newly commissioned military doctor typically earns between ₦200,000 and ₦400,000 monthly, including allowances.
2. Do military doctors receive hazard allowance?
Yes. Doctors posted to high-risk or combat zones are paid hazard allowances in addition to their base salary.
3. Is accommodation provided for military doctors?
Yes, either free service quarters or a housing allowance is provided.
4. Can military doctors work in civilian hospitals?
Rules vary by branch, but generally, outside practice requires official approval.
5. How often are salaries reviewed?
Salary reviews depend on government policy and recommendations from wage commissions.
6. Do military doctors get paid during training?
Yes. Even during training, military doctors receive their basic salary and applicable allowances.
Conclusion
Military doctors in Nigeria are compensated through a combination of base salary and multiple allowances that reflect their rank, expertise, and operational duties. While exact figures vary, the structure ensures that doctors serving in more demanding or dangerous roles earn proportionately more. For anyone considering a career as a military doctor, understanding the pay system and entitlements is essential for planning both career and finances.
