Fire Service (Ffs) Salary & Ranks For Entry-Level Personnel: Bsc, Hnd, Ond & Ssce Holders In 2025

Joining the Federal Fire Service (FFS) is a noble way to serve and safeguard communities, and as of 2025, it’s also a structured and fairly rewarding career. This guide breaks down:

Entry-level ranks by qualification (SSCE, OND, HND/BSc)
Monthly basic salaries
Allowances that boost earnings
Career advancement opportunities

Everything you need to know about stepping into FFS in 2025—let’s dive in.

Entry-Level Ranks & Salaries by Qualification

Your academic background determines your starting rank and pay in FFS:

Qualification	Entry Rank	Monthly Basic Salary (₦)
SSCE (WAEC/NECO)	Fire Assistant III	₦70,500
OND/NCE	Fire Assistant I/II	₦85,700 – ₦120,400
HND/BSc	Fire Officer II	₦180,000 – ₦230,400

SSCE holders begin as Fire Assistant III with around ₦70,500/month.
OND/NCE holders enter at Fire Marshal Assistant II or I, earning ₦85,700–₦120,400.
HND/BSc holders start as Fire Officer II, earning approximately ₦180,000–₦230,400 monthly.

Full Rank and Salary Overview

Here’s how the progression looks beyond entry level, showcasing structure and promise:

Rank	Approx. Monthly Salary (₦)
Fire Assistant III (Entry – SSCE)	70,500
Fire Assistant II	85,700
Fire Assistant I	100,600
Senior Fire Marshal Assistant	120,400
Deputy Fire Marshal Assistant	180,000
Chief Fire Marshal Assistant	200,800
Marshal Inspector III	230,400
Marshal Inspector II	280,400
Marshal Inspector I	350,800
Senior Marshal Inspector	758,400
Principal Marshal Inspector	943,500
Assistant Chief Inspector	1,152,000
Deputy Chief Inspector	1,225,200
Chief Inspector	1,405,500
Controller-General of Fire Service	~2,053,600

Allowances That Boost Take-Home Pay

In addition to basic salary, FFS officers enjoy various allowances, which can significantly increase their monthly earnings:

Allowance Type	Estimated Value
Hazard / Risk	₦20,000 – ₦50,000 per month
Training (during recruit)	₦15,000 – ₦45,000 monthly
Rent / Housing	~40%–50% of basic pay annually
Transport	10%–25% of basic pay annually
Uniform Maintenance	₦10,000 – ₦30,000 yearly
Duty Tour	₦20,000 – ₦50,000 per deployment day
Overtime	₦15,000 – ₦20,000/month
Medical	Free for officer and family
Leave Grant	Full basic pay annually during leave

When allowances are included, even entry-level officers can earn 25–50% more than their basic salary.

Career Progression & Growth

The FFS adopts a merit-based promotion system, rewarding experience, training, and performance. Here's how your salary can grow with rank over time:

Gain experience & training
Pass internal exams & performance reviews
Move through inspector and assistive cadet ranks into management
Attend professional development courses (local & international)
Advance to senior leadership roles (e.g., Deputy Controller-General)

Why 2025 is a Great Time to Join FFS

Competitive entry salaries: Starting from ₦70K to ₦230K depending on qualification
Structured pay rises as you move through ranks
Attractive allowances that reward service, risk, and training
Strong benefits package: free medical care, pensions, and housing support
Clear advancement path from assistant roles to top leadership

Final Thoughts

The Federal Fire Service offers a balanced career with noble purpose, job stability, and respectable earnings. Whether you hold an SSCE, OND, HND, or BSc, there’s a solid starting package and clear path forward.

If you're ready to embark on this career—reply “FFS Guide” to get recruitment info, training tips, and next steps to join confidently.