NCE Rank in Nigeria Customs Service and Salary 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) remains one of the leading paramilitary agencies in Nigeria responsible for revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and trade facilitation. Individuals who possess the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) can also apply for positions in the service, and their entry point, rank, and salary are determined by the approved CONPASS (Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure).
Below is a detailed explanation of the rank and salary an NCE holder can expect in the Nigeria Customs Service in 2026.
✅ Entry Rank for NCE Holders in Customs
Holders of the NCE certificate are considered mid-level non-graduate applicants. Their qualification places them above SSCE applicants but below HND and B.Sc degree holders.
The typical entry rank for NCE holders in the Nigeria Customs Service is:
➡️ Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC)
In some cases, depending on performance during training and internal needs, an NCE holder may be upgraded to the next level after a few years of service.
📊 Salary Structure for NCE Holders (2026 Estimate)
The salary for NCE holders in the Nigeria Customs Service is based on their rank, level, and years of service. While figures can vary slightly depending on location and allowances, the following gives a close estimate for 2026.
1. Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC)
- Monthly Salary: ₦85,000 – ₦95,000
- Annual Salary: ₦1,020,000 – ₦1,140,000
2. Inspector of Customs (after promotion)
- Monthly Salary: ₦100,000 – ₦115,000
- Annual Salary: ₦1,200,000 – ₦1,380,000
These figures represent the basic salary only. Officers also receive allowances such as:
- Transport allowance
- Housing allowance
- Meal subsidy
- Risk and hazard allowance
- Uniform and duty allowances
These additional benefits can raise the total monthly earnings to around ₦120,000 – ₦150,000, depending on duty post and years of service.
⚖️ Comparison with Other Entry Qualifications
| Qualification | Entry Rank | Approx. Monthly Salary (2026) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSCE | Customs Assistant II | ₦65,000 – ₦75,000 | Lowest non-graduate entry |
| NCE / ND | Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC) | ₦85,000 – ₦95,000 | Mid-level non-graduate entry |
| HND / B.Sc | Superintendent of Customs (SC)** | ₦150,000 – ₦180,000 | Graduate-level entry |
🎯 Promotion and Career Growth for NCE Holders
NCE holders have good promotion prospects in the Customs Service. Promotions are based on years of service, training, and performance. The promotion hierarchy typically follows this order:
- Assistant Inspector of Customs (Entry Rank)
- Inspector of Customs
- Senior Inspector of Customs
- Chief Inspector of Customs
- Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (after promotion and additional qualifications)
As an officer moves up in rank, salary increases accordingly. With additional education, experience, and years of service, an NCE holder can attain higher positions similar to their graduate counterparts.
🧾 Summary
- Entry Rank: Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC)
- Qualification: Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
- Monthly Salary: ₦85,000 – ₦95,000
- Annual Salary: ₦1,020,000 – ₦1,140,000
- Total with Allowances: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000 (approx.)
💡 Final Note
Joining the Nigeria Customs Service as an NCE holder is a promising career path. Apart from the steady income, officers enjoy benefits such as job security, pension, medical care, and opportunities for promotion. With dedication and discipline, an NCE holder can rise through the ranks and make a lasting impact in one of Nigeria’s most respected paramilitary institutions.
