The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)—formerly the Nigerian Prisons Service—is a crucial arm under the Federal Ministry of Interior. Its core duty is to maintain safe custody of inmates, facilitate rehabilitation, and ensure smooth reintegration of ex-inmates into society.
In 2025, the Federal Government approved a new ₦70,000 minimum wage, leading to a significant salary upgrade for correctional officers across all ranks.
NCoS Ranks and Updated Salary Structure (2025)
The Nigerian Correctional Service operates under the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS). Officer salaries vary by rank, educational qualification, and years of experience.
Monthly Salary Structure by Rank (2025)
| NCoS Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Comptroller General of Corrections (CGC) | ₦750,000 – ₦850,000 |
| Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) | ₦620,000 – ₦700,000 |
| Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) | ₦520,000 – ₦600,000 |
| Comptroller of Corrections (CC) | ₦430,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Deputy Comptroller of Corrections (DCC) | ₦350,000 – ₦420,000 |
| Assistant Comptroller of Corrections (ACC) | ₦310,000 – ₦380,000 |
| Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) | ₦270,000 – ₦340,000 |
| Superintendent of Corrections (SC) | ₦240,000 – ₦310,000 |
| Deputy Superintendent of Corrections (DSC) | ₦210,000 – ₦280,000 |
| Assistant Superintendent I (ASC I) | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Assistant Superintendent II (ASC II) | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| Senior Inspector of Corrections (SIC) | ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Inspector of Corrections (IC) | ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Assistant Inspector of Corrections (AIC) | ₦85,000 – ₦120,000 |
| Correctional Assistant I (CA I) | ₦75,000 – ₦100,000 |
| Correctional Assistant II (CA II) | ₦70,000 – ₦90,000 |
| Correctional Assistant III (CA III) | ₦70,000 – ₦85,000 |
Entry-Level Salary Based on Educational Qualification
| Qualification | Entry Rank | Estimated Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| B.Sc / HND | Assistant Superintendent II (ASC II) | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| OND | Inspector of Corrections (IC) | ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 |
| SSCE / WAEC | Correctional Assistant III (CA III) | ₦70,000 – ₦85,000 |
Allowances and Welfare Packages
Aside from basic monthly salaries, NCoS officers enjoy various allowances and benefits:
-
Housing Allowance
-
Transport Allowance
-
Hazard Allowance
-
Medical Insurance
-
Uniform and Kit Allowance
-
Leave Bonus
-
Pension & Retirement Contributions
These benefits vary depending on rank, job role, and posting location.
Career Progression and Promotion in NCoS
Officers can advance in rank based on:
-
Years of active service
-
Performance appraisals
-
Additional training & certifications
-
Level of education
-
Availability of vacancies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ What is the lowest salary in NCoS in 2025?
Answer: The lowest-paid officers earn ₦70,000 monthly as Correctional Assistant III (entry-level for SSCE holders).
❓ How can I apply to NCoS in 2025?
Answer: Recruitment is done via the official NCoS website or national newspapers. Applicants must meet all requirements regarding age, education, and fitness.
❓ Can HND and B.Sc holders earn the same salary?
Answer: Yes. Both qualifications are placed at Assistant Superintendent II (ASC II) at entry-level, but promotions may depend on course relevance and performance.
❓ Is the ₦70,000 minimum wage now applied in NCoS?
Answer: Yes. The new wage structure aligns with the 2025-approved ₦70,000 national minimum wage.
❓ Do correctional officers get pensions?
Answer: Yes. Officers contribute to the National Pension Scheme and are entitled to post-retirement benefits.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) remains one of the most rewarding paramilitary careers in Nigeria. With a new salary structure based on the ₦70,000 minimum wage, plus generous allowances and solid career growth, NCoS offers a stable and fulfilling professional path.
Thinking of a career in law enforcement, rehabilitation, or public service? The Nigerian Correctional Service could be your perfect fit.
