The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is Nigeria's premier agency responsible for combating drug trafficking and abuse. Established in 1989, the NDLEA operates under the Federal Ministry of Justice and is tasked with eliminating the cultivation, processing, manufacturing, sale, exportation, and trafficking of hard drugs. The agency is present in international airports, seaports, and border crossings, targeting the leaders of narcotics and money laundering organizations.
NDLEA Ranks and Salary Structure (2025)
The NDLEA 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.
NDLEA Rank Hierarchy
The NDLEA follows a structured hierarchy similar to other Nigerian paramilitary agencies:
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
- Narcotic Assistant
- Narcotic Assistant I
- Narcotic Agent
- Senior Narcotic Agent
- Chief Narcotic Agent
Commissioned Officers:
- Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II
- Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics I
- Deputy Superintendent of Narcotics
- Superintendent of Narcotics
- Chief Superintendent of Narcotics
- Assistant Commander of Narcotics
- Deputy Commander of Narcotics
- Commander of Narcotics
- Assistant Commander General of Narcotics
- Deputy Commander General of Narcotics
- Commander General of Narcotics
NDLEA Salary by Rank (Monthly Estimates)
|
Rank |
Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|
Narcotic Assistant |
₦46,321 – ₦47,561 |
|
Narcotic Assistant I |
₦47,061 – ₦48,651 |
|
Narcotic Agent |
₦48,851 – ₦49,551 |
|
Senior Narcotic Agent |
₦51,641 – ₦55,351 |
|
Chief Narcotic Agent |
₦54,741 – ₦59,751 |
|
Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II |
₦90,451 – ₦98,331 |
|
Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics I |
₦110,741 – ₦130,291 |
|
Deputy Superintendent of Narcotics |
₦143,021 – ₦151,081 |
|
Superintendent of Narcotics |
₦151,731 – ₦179,051 |
|
Chief Superintendent of Narcotics |
₦205,671 – ₦223,451 |
|
Assistant Commander of Narcotics |
₦220,381 – ₦256,741 |
|
Deputy Commander of Narcotics |
₦236,571 – ₦268,901 |
|
Commander of Narcotics |
₦307,821 – ₦378,001 |
|
Assistant Commander General of Narcotics |
₦379,231 – ₦392,001 |
|
Deputy Commander General of Narcotics |
₦425,901 – ₦501,651 |
|
Commander General of Narcotics |
₦501,651 and above |
*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.) |
Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II |
₦90,451 – ₦98,331 |
|
Higher National Diploma (HND) |
Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II |
₦90,451 – ₦98,331 |
|
Ordinary National Diploma (OND) |
Senior Narcotic Agent |
₦51,641 – ₦55,351 |
|
National Certificate of Education (NCE) |
Senior Narcotic Agent |
₦51,641 – ₦55,351 |
|
Senior Secondary Certificate (SSCE) |
Narcotic Assistant |
₦46,321 – ₦47,561 |
Note: Entry rank is determined by the highest educational qualification at the time of recruitment.
Allowances and Benefits
In addition to the basic salary, NDLEA officers are entitled to various allowances and benefits, which may include:
- Hazard Allowance: Compensation for work-related risks.
- Transport Allowance: Covers commuting costs.
- Housing Allowance: Assistance with accommodation expenses.
- Medical Allowance: Access to healthcare services.
- Uniform Allowance: For procurement and maintenance of official attire.
- Leave Bonus: Paid time off annually.
- 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 NDLEA are based on a combination of factors, including:
- Years of Service: Tenure in the service.
- Performance Evaluations: Assessment of job performance.
- Completion of Professional Training: Participation in relevant courses and workshops.
- Educational Qualifications: Further studies and certifications.
- 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 NDLEA?
A new recruit (Narcotic Assistant) typically earns between ₦46,321 and ₦47,561 per month.
Q2: How do I join the NDLEA in 2025?
Recruitment is usually announced on the official NDLEA website and in national dailies. Candidates must meet age, health, and educational requirements.
Q3: Do NDLEA 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 NDLEA?
Yes, SSCE holders can apply for entry-level positions like Narcotic Assistant.
Q5: Is the NDLEA 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 National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) offers a structured and rewarding career path for individuals interested in serving the nation in combating drug trafficking and abuse. With competitive salaries, allowances, and opportunities for advancement, the NDLEA remains an attractive option for prospective applicants.
