The Federal Fire Service salary in Nigeria is based on the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS), the same salary framework used by several federal paramilitary agencies. Depending on rank, grade level, qualifications and years of service, personnel earn a monthly salary ranging from about ₦70,000 for entry-level recruits to well above ₦500,000 for senior management officers.
Beyond the basic salary, officers receive various allowances and benefits that increase their overall monthly earnings. These include housing, transport, hazard, uniform and medical allowances, alongside pension contributions and life insurance.
FirstNigerian.com explains the Federal Fire Service salary structure, estimated salaries by qualification and rank, the allowances available to personnel, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about fire service salary in Nigeria.
Federal Fire Service Salary Structure (CONPASS)
The Federal Fire Service salary structure operates under the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS). This unified pay system determines the salaries of federal paramilitary personnel based on their rank, grade level, qualifications and length of service. The Federal Fire Service operates under the Federal Ministry of Interior. See the current ministers in Nigeria and their portfolios.
Every officer receives a basic salary, which forms the foundation of their earnings. However, the amount paid into an employee’s account each month is often higher because gross monthly earnings include approved allowances and other statutory benefits. As a federal government agency, the Federal Fire Service also uses Nigeria’s official national symbols, including the Nigeria Coat of Arms, on official documents and other government materials.
Several factors determine an officer’s salary under CONPASS:
- Entry qualification at the point of employment.
- Assigned rank and grade level.
- Years of service and annual step progression.
- Promotions earned during service.
- Approved government salary reviews.
As personnel receive promotions, they move to higher grade levels, resulting in increased basic salaries and improved allowances. Consequently, two officers working within the Federal Fire Service may earn different salaries despite serving in similar departments.
Federal Fire Service Salary by Qualification
Educational qualifications influence the entry cadre and starting salary within the Federal Fire Service. Higher qualifications generally attract higher grade levels and better promotion opportunities.
| Qualification | Entry Cadre | Monthly Salary | Promotion Prospects |
| SSCE | Fire Assistant | ₦70,000–₦95,000 | Eligible for promotion through internal examinations and years of service. |
| ND/NCE | Assistant Inspector cadre | ₦95,000–₦130,000 | Faster progression into supervisory positions. |
| HND/BSc | Assistant Superintendent cadre | ₦150,000–₦220,000 | Direct entry into officer cadre with broader career advancement. |
| Postgraduate or Professional Qualification | Senior officer entry (where applicable) | ₦200,000–₦280,000+ | Better opportunities for specialised and management roles. |
These figures are industry estimates based on the current CONPASS structure and available information. The Federal Fire Service has not published an official 2026 salary table for entry qualifications.
SSCE Holders
The Federal Fire Service salary for SSCE holders ranges from about ₦70,000 to ₦95,000 per month. These recruits usually begin as Fire Assistants and can progress through promotions based on experience, performance and internal assessments.
ND/NCE Holders
Candidates with National Diploma (ND) or Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) typically enter a higher cadre than SSCE holders. Their monthly salary falls between ₦95,000 and ₦130,000, with improved prospects for supervisory responsibilities.
HND/BSc Holders
The Federal Fire Service salary for graduates holding an HND or BSc generally starts between ₦150,000 and ₦220,000 per month. These officers usually join the superintendent cadre, providing a clearer pathway to senior leadership positions.
Postgraduate and Professional Entry
Candidates with postgraduate qualifications or recognised professional certifications may receive higher placement where vacancies and service regulations permit. Monthly earnings range from ₦200,000 to over ₦280,000, depending on grade level and appointment.
Federal Fire Service Salary by Rank
The table below provides estimated monthly and annual salaries across the major Federal Fire Service ranks. Actual figures may differ depending on grade level, years of service, government salary reviews and approved allowances.
| Rank | Typical Grade Level | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
| Fire Assistant | GL 03–05 | ₦70,000–₦95,000 | ₦840,000–₦1.14 million |
| Senior Fire Assistant | GL 06 | ₦90,000–₦110,000 | ₦1.08–₦1.32 million |
| Principal Fire Assistant | GL 07 | ₦105,000–₦130,000 | ₦1.26–₦1.56 million |
| Assistant Inspector of Fire | GL 08 | ₦120,000–₦145,000 | ₦1.44–₦1.74 million |
| Inspector of Fire | GL 09 | ₦135,000–₦165,000 | ₦1.62–₦1.98 million |
| Assistant Superintendent of Fire | GL 10 | ₦150,000–₦190,000 | ₦1.8–₦2.28 million |
| Deputy Superintendent of Fire | GL 11 | ₦180,000–₦230,000 | ₦2.16–₦2.76 million |
| Superintendent of Fire | GL 12 | ₦220,000–₦270,000 | ₦2.64–₦3.24 million |
| Chief Superintendent of Fire | GL 13 | ₦260,000–₦330,000 | ₦3.12–₦3.96 million |
| Assistant Controller of Fire | GL 14 | ₦320,000–₦390,000 | ₦3.84–₦4.68 million |
| Deputy Controller of Fire | GL 15 | ₦380,000–₦460,000 | ₦4.56–₦5.52 million |
| Controller of Fire | GL 16 | ₦450,000–₦550,000 | ₦5.4–₦6.6 million |
| Controller-General of Fire | GL 17 | ₦600,000+ | ₦7.2 million+ |
Although numerous websites publish exact salary figures for each rank, neither the Federal Fire Service nor the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has released an official rank-by-rank salary schedule for 2026. Any future salary adjustments are subject to Federal Government approval through the appropriate supervising authorities, including the Ministry of Interior.
Personnel on Grade Level 7, often referred to when discussing the fire service salary for Level 7, generally earn between ₦105,000 and ₦130,000 per month before additional allowances.
Federal Fire Service Allowances and Benefits
The Federal Fire Service salary and allowance package extends beyond basic pay. Officers receive several benefits designed to compensate for the demanding nature of their duties and improve their welfare.
Hazard Allowance
Firefighters regularly work in dangerous environments involving fires, explosions and rescue operations. Hazard allowance recognises these occupational risks.
Housing Allowance
Housing allowance helps officers cover accommodation expenses. The amount depends on rank, grade level and applicable government regulations.
Transport Allowance
Personnel receive transport allowance to support commuting and official movement associated with their responsibilities.
Uniform Allowance
Because officers must wear approved uniforms and protective equipment, uniform allowance assists with maintenance and replacement costs.
Medical Benefits
Federal Fire Service personnel have access to government-approved healthcare schemes covering medical consultations, treatment and other healthcare services.
Leave Allowance
Eligible officers receive leave allowance during their annual leave period as part of their employment benefits.
Pension
The Federal Fire Service participates in Nigeria’s contributory pension scheme, ensuring retirement savings for eligible employees.
Life Insurance
Officers are covered by government-backed life insurance in line with public service regulations, providing financial protection for their families in the event of death while in service.
Since these allowances are paid alongside the basic salary, total monthly earnings are usually higher than the basic salary shown under the CONPASS salary scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Federal Fire Service salary per month?
Monthly salaries generally range from about ₦70,000 for entry-level recruits to over ₦600,000 for the Controller-General of Fire, excluding some allowances and benefits.
What is the Federal Fire Service salary for graduates?
Graduates with HND or BSc qualifications typically earn between ₦150,000 and ₦220,000 per month at entry level, depending on their cadre and grade level.
What is the Federal Fire Service salary for SSCE holders?
SSCE holders usually begin as Fire Assistants and earn a monthly salary of between ₦70,000 and ₦95,000.
Does the Federal Fire Service pay allowances?
Yes. Personnel receive approved allowances such as hazard, housing, transport, uniform, medical and leave allowances, in addition to pension and life insurance benefits.
What salary grade level do new recruits enter?
The entry grade level depends on educational qualifications. SSCE holders usually join the lower cadres, while ND, NCE, HND and BSc holders enter higher grade levels under the CONPASS structure.
What is the highest-paid rank in the Federal Fire Service?
The Controller-General of Fire is the highest-ranking and highest-paid officer within the Federal Fire Service.
Is the Federal Fire Service salary paid under CONPASS?
Yes. Federal Fire Service personnel are paid under the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS), which determines salaries according to rank, grade level and years of service.
Conclusion
The Federal Fire Service salary in Nigeria is determined by the CONPASS salary structure, ensuring a standardised pay system across federal paramilitary agencies. An officer’s monthly earnings depend primarily on educational qualifications, entry cadre, rank, grade level and years of service.
Although basic salaries differ across ranks, approved allowances such as housing, transport, hazard and medical benefits significantly increase total compensation. As officers progress through promotions, both their salaries and benefits improve.
The salary figures in this guide are based on the current CONPASS framework and available information. Actual earnings may vary and remain subject to future salary reviews and adjustments approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
