The Department of State Services (DSS), also known as the State Security Service (SSS), is Nigeria's premier domestic intelligence agency. Operating under the Presidency, the DSS is tasked with intelligence gathering, counter-terrorism, and ensuring the internal security of the nation. As of August 2024, Adeola Ajayi serves as the Director-General of the DSS.
DSS Ranks and Salary Structure (2025)
The DSS salary structure is based on the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS), which standardizes pay across Nigeria's paramilitary agencies. Salaries vary by rank, educational qualifications, and years of service.
DSS Rank Hierarchy
The DSS follows a structured hierarchy similar to other Nigerian security agencies:
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
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Recruit / Cadet
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Private Officer
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Lance Corporal
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Corporal
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Sergeant
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Staff Sergeant
Commissioned Officers:
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Second Lieutenant
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Lieutenant
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Captain
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Major
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Lieutenant Colonel
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Colonel
Senior Officers:
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Brigadier General
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Major General
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Director
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Director-General (DG)
DSS Salary by Rank (Monthly Estimates)
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Recruit / Cadet | ₦70,000 – ₦90,000 |
| Private Officer | ₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
| Lance Corporal | ₦110,000 – ₦130,000 |
| Corporal | ₦130,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Sergeant | ₦150,000 – ₦170,000 |
| Staff Sergeant | ₦170,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Second Lieutenant | ₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Lieutenant | ₦200,000 – ₦220,000 |
| Captain | ₦220,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Major | ₦270,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Lieutenant Colonel | ₦300,000 – ₦350,000 |
| Colonel | ₦350,000 – ₦400,000 |
| Brigadier General | ₦400,000 – ₦450,000 |
| Major General | ₦450,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Director | ₦950,000 – ₦1,200,000 |
| Director-General (DG) | ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
Note: These figures are estimates and may vary based on specific roles, qualifications, and years of service.
Entry-Level Salary Based on Educational Qualifications
| Qualification | Entry Rank | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree (e.g., B.Sc.) | Second Lieutenant | ₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Higher National Diploma (HND) | Second Lieutenant | ₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Ordinary National Diploma (OND) | Sergeant | ₦150,000 – ₦170,000 |
| Senior Secondary Certificate (SSCE) | Private Officer | ₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
Note: Entry rank is determined by the highest educational qualification at the time of recruitment.
Allowances and Benefits
In addition to the basic salary, DSS officers are entitled to various allowances and benefits, which may include:
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Hazard Allowance: Compensation for work-related risks.
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Transport Allowance: Covers commuting costs.
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Housing Allowance: Assistance with accommodation expenses.
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Medical Allowance: Access to healthcare services.
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Uniform Allowance: For procurement and maintenance of official attire.
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Leave Bonus: Paid time off annually.
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Pension & Retirement Benefits: Post-service financial security.
*Note: The exact amount and eligibility for these allowances can vary based on rank, deployment location, and specific duties.
Promotion and Career Progression
Promotions within the DSS are based on a combination of factors, including:
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Years of Service: Tenure in the service.
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Performance Evaluations: Assessment of job performance.
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Completion of Professional Training: Participation in relevant courses and workshops.
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Educational Qualifications: Further studies and certifications.
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Availability of Vacant Positions: Openings in higher ranks.
Officers are encouraged to pursue continuous professional development to enhance their prospects for advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the starting salary for a new recruit in the DSS?
A new recruit (cadet) typically earns between ₦70,000 and ₦90,000 per month during training.
Q2: How do I join the DSS in 2025?
Recruitment is usually announced on the official DSS website and in national dailies. Candidates must meet age, health, and educational requirements.
Q3: Do DSS officers receive allowances in addition to their salaries?
Yes, officers are entitled to various allowances, including hazard, transport, housing, and medical allowances, among others.
Q4: Can an SSCE holder work in the DSS?
Yes, SSCE holders can apply for entry-level positions like Private Officer.
Q5: Is the DSS salary structure subject to change?
Yes, salaries and allowances may be reviewed periodically by the Federal Government to reflect economic conditions and policy decisions.
Conclusion
The Department of State Services (DSS) offers a structured and rewarding career path for individuals interested in serving the nation in intelligence and internal security roles. With competitive salaries, allowances, and opportunities for advancement, the DSS remains an attractive option for prospective applicants.
