The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has revealed its updated salary structure for 2025, offering competitive compensation packages for Nigerians seeking careers in drug law enforcement. As one of Nigeria's most respected paramilitary institutions, the agency provides varying salary levels based on educational qualifications, rank, and years of service.
NDLEA Salary Structure and Ranks
The NDLEA operates under the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS), the same payment system used by other paramilitary agencies like the Nigeria Immigration Service and FRSC. The agency categorizes its personnel into three main cadres with corresponding salary ranges.
Monthly Salary Breakdown by Rank
For SSCE holders entering as Narcotic Assistants, monthly salaries range from ₦70,000 for Narcotic Assistant III to ₦76,000 for Narcotic Assistant I. Those with ND/NCE qualifications serving as Narcotic Agents earn between ₦79,000 and ₦85,000 monthly.
University graduates with HND or B.Sc degrees start at significantly higher levels. Entry-level Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II receives approximately ₦120,000 monthly, while senior officers can earn up to ₦850,000 monthly at the Chief Commander of Narcotics rank.
Comprehensive Allowances and Benefits
Beyond basic salaries, NDLEA officers enjoy numerous allowances reflecting the high-risk nature of drug enforcement work. During training, SSCE, OND, and NCE holders receive between ₦18,000 and ₦28,000 as training allowance, while graduate trainees earn ₦30,000 to ₦47,000.
Other significant benefits include:
- Hazard allowance ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦50,000 monthly
- Uniform and maintenance allowance
- Housing subsidy or accommodation
- Comprehensive medical insurance for officers and families
- Pension and gratuity under the federal system
- Annual 13-month bonus
- Performance-based bonuses
Entry Requirements and Qualifications
To join NDLEA, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged between 18 and 35 years. Educational requirements vary by cadre: SSCE holders can apply for Narcotic Assistant positions, ND/NCE holders qualify for Narcotic Agent roles, while graduates with minimum second-class honors can enter the Superintendent Cadre.
All candidates must be physically and mentally fit, pass mandatory drug tests, and possess excellent communication skills. The agency enforces strict professionalism standards given its critical national security mandate of combating drug trafficking and abuse across Nigeria.
Since its establishment in 1989, NDLEA has grown into a crucial component of Nigeria's security architecture, operating at airports, seaports, borders, and within local communities to eliminate narcotic-related crimes.
