National Diploma (ND) Rank in Nigerian Police and Salary 2026 (Updated)
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) remains one of the most important security agencies in Nigeria, responsible for maintaining peace, enforcing laws, and protecting lives and property.
Just like other uniformed organizations, the Police rank structure and salary depend on educational qualifications, years of service, and promotions.
If you possess a National Diploma (ND) — whether from a Polytechnic or Monotechnic — your entry rank and salary will be determined by your qualification level within the Police hierarchy.
This 2026 updated article explains the rank, position, and monthly salary for National Diploma holders in the Nigerian Police Force, without using internet sources.
👮♂️ 1. Entry Rank for National Diploma Holders
A candidate with a National Diploma (ND) certificate is usually recruited into the Nigerian Police Force through the Police Constable (Specialist) or Cadet Inspector category — depending on the field of study and recruitment type.
There are two main entry points available for ND holders:
🔹 Option 1: Police Constable (Specialist Cadre)
This applies if you join through the Constable recruitment. ND holders with relevant skills (in ICT, Engineering, Medical Lab, etc.) may be placed higher than SSCE holders.
- Rank: Police Constable (Specialist) or Corporal after training.
- Training Duration: 6–9 months at the Police Training College.
- Promotion: Eligible for promotion to Sergeant and beyond after years of meritorious service.
🔹 Option 2: Cadet Inspector (Through the Police Academy)
ND holders can also apply for Cadet Inspector positions, especially when the recruitment specifies “ND/NCE minimum.”
This entry rank is higher than the Constable level and falls under the Inspectorate Cadre.
- Rank: Cadet Inspector (on training) → Inspector of Police (after passing out).
- Training Duration: Usually about 12 months.
- Advantage: Faster promotion and better pay than Constables.
💼 2. National Diploma Rank in Nigerian Police (After Training)
After successful training and confirmation, ND holders are typically placed at:
- Rank: Inspector of Police (IP)
- Category: Non-Commissioned but Senior Rank (Inspectorate Cadre)
- Equivalent Rank in the Army: Staff Sergeant or Warrant Officer
- Uniform Symbol/Insignia: Three vertical stars on the shoulder epaulette
💰 3. Nigerian Police Salary for ND Holders (2026 Updated)
The Nigerian Police salary is determined by the Rank and Grade Level.
For ND holders, the expected monthly salary after confirmation ranges between ₦90,000 and ₦130,000 depending on posting, allowances, and years of experience.
Here’s an estimated breakdown (2026 updated):
| Rank | Approx. Monthly Salary (₦) | Annual Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Cadet Inspector (During Training) | ₦55,000 – ₦75,000 | ₦660,000 – ₦900,000 |
| Inspector of Police (Confirmed) | ₦120,000 – ₦130,000 | ₦1.4 million – ₦1.56 million |
| Senior Inspector (After Promotion) | ₦140,000 – ₦160,000 | ₦1.68 million – ₦1.92 million |
| Principal Inspector | ₦170,000 – ₦190,000 | ₦2.04 million – ₦2.28 million |
Note:
These figures exclude allowances such as hazard allowance, uniform allowance, duty allowance, transport, and housing benefits, which can increase take-home pay significantly.
🧭 4. Career Growth for ND Holders
ND holders in the Police Force enjoy stable career growth opportunities. With additional education and experience, they can rise through the ranks.
Possible Career Progression Path:
- Cadet Inspector
- Inspector of Police
- Senior Inspector
- Principal Inspector
- Assistant Superintendent of Police (after further qualification or promotion)
Upgrading your qualification (for example, obtaining an HND or BSc) can help you cross into the officer cadre, which comes with much higher salaries and privileges.
🎓 5. Tips for ND Holders Joining the Police Force
- Apply for the right cadre: If the recruitment advert states ND/NCE, aim for the Inspectorate Cadre instead of Constable.
- Prepare for physical and written tests: ND candidates are expected to perform better academically and physically.
- Consider further studies: Upgrading to HND or BSc will open promotion opportunities to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) level.
- Maintain discipline and record: Promotions in the Police depend on both service years and discipline record.
⚖️ Summary
| Qualification | Entry Rank | Approx. Monthly Salary (₦) | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| ND (Constable Route) | Police Constable / Corporal | ₦85,000 – ₦100,000 | General Duty |
| ND (Inspector Route) | Inspector of Police | ₦120,000 – ₦130,000 | Inspectorate Cadre |
| ND (After Promotion) | Senior Inspector | ₦140,000 – ₦160,000 | Senior NCO |
🏁 Conclusion
In 2026, a National Diploma holder in the Nigerian Police Force can start as a Cadet Inspector or Police Constable (Specialist), depending on recruitment entry.
The average salary ranges between ₦100,000 and ₦130,000 monthly, excluding allowances.
With dedication, training, and further education, ND holders can rise to senior ranks like Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and beyond — earning significantly higher salaries and leadership responsibilities.
