The Nigerian Air Force is the branch of the military that focuses on aerial operations. It utilizes a variety of aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles to carry out its responsibilities. In comparison to other branches of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the ranks and salary structure within the Nigerian Air Force are relatively less complex.
The Nigerian Air Force is widely recognized as the largest and most advanced air force in West Africa. Over the years, its manpower has grown significantly, with a current strength of over 30,000 personnel. Additionally, it boasts a fleet of more than 300 aircraft.
For individuals interested in pursuing a career in the Air Force, this article provides valuable information on the ranks and salary structure within the Nigerian Air Force. It covers both commissioned and non-commissioned officers.
If you are interested in applying for the ongoing recruitment into the Nigerian Air Force this year, you can do so by visiting the official website.
Nigerian Air Force Overview:
Providing a concise overview of the Nigerian Air Force, it is important to note that this branch of the Nigerian military is responsible for aerial warfare. Established on 18 April 1964, more than 56 years ago, the Nigerian Air Force predates the Nigerian Civil War.
During the period leading up to its establishment, the Nigerian Armed Forces recognized the need for a competent aerial unit, particularly in light of previous peacekeeping missions in Tanzania and Congo, where their operations proved to be largely ineffective.
Delving into the history of the Nigerian Air Force, it is worth mentioning that even before its formal establishment, the government had already begun recruiting personnel in 1962 and sending them for pilot training in various international nations. The initial batch of ten Nigerian Air Force pilots received training in Egypt, while an additional six cadets were sent to Canada the following year, with others being trained in India.
Over the years, more pilots were trained within Nigeria, with assistance from the now-defunct West German Air Force. This support was provided through the German Air Force Assistance Group (GAFAG), led by Colonel Gerhard Kahtz, who later became the first commander of the Nigerian Air Force.
Upon its formation, the Nigerian Air Force procured its first fighter jets from the Soviet Union, which played a significant role during the Nigerian Civil War.
The initial aircraft inventory of the Nigerian Air Force included six MiG-17s for air defense and strike purposes, as well as two MiG-15s for pilot training. Subsequently, six Il-28 bombers were delivered, piloted by Egyptian and Czech aviators.
Roles of the Nigerian Air Force
The Nigerian Air Force plays a crucial role in upholding and fulfilling its mandated responsibilities as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution, just like any other Air Force worldwide.
While it is important for aspiring Air Force cadets to be aware of the Nigerian Air Force Ranks and Salary, it is equally vital to comprehend the various roles and duties they undertake.
The roles of the Nigerian Air Force encompass the following:
1. Safeguarding and defending Nigeria against both foreign and domestic threats.
2. Providing airborne support to the Nigerian Army and Navy during operations, which is essential for achieving their primary objective.
3. Offering comprehensive support to civil authorities during national emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of the nation.
4. Facilitating logistics support by transporting personnel and equipment of the Armed Forces, civil authorities, and the Government.
5. Establishing a strong presence in the international community to enhance diplomatic relations and exert influence when necessary.
Nigerian Air Force Mission and Vision statement.
The primary objective of the Nigerian Air Force is to safeguard the sovereignty of Nigeria's airspace by establishing and upholding control over it. Additionally, the Air Force aims to possess a credible capability to provide support to the government and civil authorities.
Operations of the Nigerian Air Force.
Ever since its establishment, the Nigerian Air Force has undertaken numerous operations and participated in peacekeeping missions across the world. While searching for information regarding the ranks and salaries within the Nigerian Air Force, it is crucial to familiarize oneself with some of its notable operations.
Peacekeeping operations play a vital role in enabling military personnel to enhance their combat and diplomatic skills within active war zones. Officers deployed on peacekeeping missions often receive higher salaries.
Listed below are some of the notable engagements of the Nigerian Air Force:
1. Nigerian Civil War
2. Liberian Civil War
3. Sierra Leone Civil War
4. Niger Delta crises
5. Boko Haram/ Islamic State insurgency
6. Malian War
7. Gambia crises.
The Nigerian Air Force Command Structure
The Nigerian Air force Command Structure is an essential aspect to understand alongside the ranks and salary of the Nigerian Air Force. Currently, the Nigerian Air Force consists of one service Headquarters situated in Abuja, six principal staff branches, four direct reporting units, and four operational commands. Leading the Nigerian Air Force is Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, who serves as the Chief of the Air Staff.
The four operational commands are as follows:
1. NAF Tactical Air Command (TAC):
This command is responsible for executing and interpreting the operational plan of the Nigerian Air Force. Its headquarters is located in Makurdi, Benue state.
2. NAF Mobility Command:
This command carries out crucial transport duties for the government, Nigerian Air Force, Army, and Navy. Established in 2011, its headquarters is situated in Yenegoa, Bayelsa state.
3. NAF Training Command:
This command primarily focuses on the training of cadets, ground support personnel, and technicians. Its headquarters is based in Kaduna.
4. NAF Logistics Command:
The main responsibility of this command is to acquire and maintain the equipment of the Nigerian Air Force, ensuring mission readiness at a minimal cost. Its headquarters is located in Ikeja, Lagos state.
Nigerian Air force ranks
The hierarchy of ranks in the Nigerian Air Force closely resembles that of the Royal Air Force, from which it originated. It is divided into two main categories: Commissioned Officers and Non-commissioned Officers.
Commissioned Officers
Commissioned officers in the Nigerian Air Force are individuals who have been enlisted through the Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA), the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC), or the Short Service Commission. These officers are typically graduates with a degree or diploma in a recognized field of study. There are a total of eleven ranks within the Commissioned Officers category.
The ranks of Nigerian Air Force Commissioned Officers are as follows:
1. Marshal of the Nigerian Air Force
2. Air Chief Marshal
3. Air Marshal
4. Air Vice-Marshal
5. Air Commodore
6. Group Captain
7. Wing Commander
8. Squadron Leader
9. Flight Lieutenant
10. Flying Officer
11. Pilot Officer.
Non commissioned officers:
The Nigerian Air Force Non-commissioned officers are individuals who have enlisted through the direct recruitment process, also known as the Airmen. They are often referred to as the "rank and file" of the Air Force.
Typically, Nigerian Air Force Non-commissioned officers possess O-Level degrees or other lower diplomas in recognized subjects.
Before being deployed, these Non-commissioned officers undergo a six-month training program. Their responsibilities encompass various tasks such as aircraft maintenance, handling weapons and explosives, K-9s, base defense, direct actions, search and rescue, and medical support. The non-commissioned officers have a total of nine ranks within their cadre.
The ranks of Nigerian Air Force Non-commissioned officers include:
1. Air Warrant Officer
2. Master Warrant Officer
3. Warrant Officer
4. Flight Sergeant
5. Sergeant
6. Corporal
7. Lance Corporal
8. Aircraftman
9. Recruit.
Nigeria AirForce Salary And Allowance 2024:
The Non-commissioned officers:
1. Trainee receives a monthly salary of N10,706.
2. Aircraft man/woman is compensated with a monthly salary of N53,346.
3. Lance Corporal is entitled to a monthly salary of N57,906.
4. Corporal receives a monthly salary of N61,766.
5. Sergeant is paid a monthly salary of N75,876.
6. Flight Sergeant earns a monthly salary of N96,892.
7. Warrant Officer is entitled to a monthly salary of N120,986.
8. Master Warrant Officer receives a monthly salary of N185,286.
9. Cadet (Trainee) is compensated with a monthly salary of N44,046.
10. Air Warrant Officer receives a monthly salary of N191,096.
The Commissioned Officers:
1. A Pilot Officer receives a monthly salary of N202,196.
2. Flying Officer is entitled to a monthly salary of N228,476.
3. Flight Lieutenant earns a monthly salary of N252,496.
4. Squadron Leader is compensated with a monthly salary of N298,036.
5. Wing Commander earns a monthly salary of N352,522.
6. Group Captain receives a monthly salary of N382,626.
7. Air Commodore is entitled to a monthly salary of N697,826.
8. Air Vice-Marshal receives a monthly salary of N1,386,326.
9. Air Marshal is compensated with a monthly salary of N1,496,426.
10. Air Chief Marshal earns a monthly salary of N1,794,226.
The Nigerian Air Force Allowances 2024
The regiment allowance ranges from #40,000 to #75,000, while the transport allowance ranges from #5,000 to #25,000. Additionally, the uniform allowance ranges from #15,000 to #20,000, and the boot allowance ranges from #10,000 to #20,000. Lastly, the operation allowance ranges from #45,000 to #75,000.
Please note that these figures are subject to change, but we will ensure to update this post accordingly. If you have any inquiries regarding the Nigerian Air Force salary and allowance, please feel free to leave a comment below.