Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks And Symbols 2026

The Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks And Symbols 2026 shows the complete hierarchy used by the Nigerian Correctional Service. The Controller-General of Corrections is the highest rank in the Nigerian Correctional Service. This makes the Controller-General the most senior officer who commands the entire service under the Minister of Interior.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), formerly known as Nigerian Prisons Service, was renamed in 2019 following the passage of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act. With over 40,000 personnel managing 244 custodial centers across Nigeria, the NCoS is responsible for the custody, reformation, and rehabilitation of inmates. These ranks and symbols help maintain order, discipline, and respect within the correctional system.

Quick Summary: Nigerian Correctional Service Rank Categories

Commissioned Officers (6 Ranks):

• Controller-General of Corrections (CGC)
• Deputy Controller-General (DCG)
• Assistant Controller-General (ACG)
• Controller of Corrections (CC)
• Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC)
• Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC)

Superintendent Cadre (4 Ranks):

• Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC)
• Superintendent of Corrections (SC)
• Deputy Superintendent of Corrections (DSC)
• Assistant Superintendent of Corrections I & II (ASC I & II)

Inspectorate Cadre (3 Ranks):

• Chief Inspector of Corrections (CIC)
• Inspector of Corrections (IC)
• Assistant Inspector of Corrections I & II (AIC I & II)

Assistant Cadre (4 Ranks):

• Chief Correctional Assistant (CCA)
• Senior Correctional Assistant (SCA)
• Correctional Assistant I (CA I)
• Correctional Assistant II (CA II)

How Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks Work

The Nigerian Correctional Service ranks are divided into four main categories. These are Commissioned Officers, Superintendent Cadre, Inspectorate Cadre, and Assistant Cadre. Commissioned Officers are senior leaders who make policy decisions and manage correctional facilities. The other cadres handle daily operations, inmate management, and security duties within custodial centers.

COMMISSIONED OFFICERS RANKS AND SYMBOLS

Commissioned officers are the top-tier personnel in the Nigerian Correctional Service. They handle strategic planning, policy implementation, and high-level administration. Their symbols typically feature stars, eagles, Nigerian coat of arms, and crossed keys insignias.

1. Controller-General of Corrections (CGC)

Symbol: Nigerian Coat of Arms with crossed keys and stars

Description: This is the highest rank in the Nigerian Correctional Service. The CGC is appointed by the President of Nigeria and confirmed by the Senate. This officer commands the entire service and reports directly to the Minister of Interior.

Key Features:

• Highest rank in NCoS
• Appointed by the President
• Senate confirmation required
• Reports to Minister of Interior

Duties:

• Lead the entire Nigerian Correctional Service
• Formulate and execute national correctional policies
• Oversee all custodial centers nationwide
• Manage reformation and rehabilitation programs
• Represent Nigeria at international correctional forums
• Make high-level policy and operational decisions

2026 Status: Controller-General Haliru Nababa currently serves as CGC. He was appointed in 2021 by President Muhammadu Buhari and continues to serve under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The CGC oversees 244 custodial centers and over 40,000 personnel across Nigeria.

2. Deputy Controller-General (DCG)

Symbol: Nigerian Coat of Arms with three stars and crossed keys

Description: This is the second-highest rank. DCGs assist the CGC in supervising specific departments like Operations, Administration, Reformative Services, or Medical Services. They often oversee multiple zones.

Key Features:

• Second-highest rank
• Heads major departments
• Assists the CGC
• Supervises multiple zones

Duties:

• Supervise major directorates
• Implement CGC directives
• Manage multiple operational zones
• Coordinate nationwide operations
• Policy execution and monitoring

2026 Status: There are currently multiple Deputy Controllers-General heading various directorates including Operations, Training, Medical Services, Reformative Services, and Administration.

3. Assistant Controller-General (ACG)

Symbol: Nigerian Coat of Arms with two stars and crossed keys

Description: ACGs supervise zones and departments under the DCG’s oversight. They enforce correctional procedures and regulations at the zonal level.

Key Features:

• Third-highest rank
• Zonal supervision
• Departmental oversight
• Policy enforcement

Duties:

• Supervise correctional zones
• Enforce correctional regulations
• Manage zonal operations
• Report to DCG
• Coordinate with state commands

2026 Status: Assistant Controllers-General serve as zonal coordinators across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones. Each zone includes multiple custodial centers and commands.

4. Controller of Corrections (CC)

Symbol: Three vertical stars with crossed keys

Description: This is a 3-star rank. Controllers command correctional operations at state or command level. They manage state commands and ensure correctional regulations are enforced.

Key Features:

• 3-star officer rank
• State/command leadership
• Custodial center management
• Senior field commander

Duties:

• Command state-level operations
• Manage major custodial centers
• Supervise correctional officers
• Enforce correctional laws and procedures
• Coordinate with security agencies

2026 Highlights: Controllers of Corrections earn between ₦220,000 to ₦250,000 monthly. They command major custodial centers like Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison (Lagos), Kuje Prison (Abuja), and other state commands across Nigeria’s 36 states.

5. Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC)

Symbol: Two vertical stars with crossed keys

Description: Deputy Controllers are 2-star officers who assist Controllers in managing commands. They handle operational and administrative duties at command level.

Key Features:

• 2-star officer rank
• Deputy command position
• Operational management
• Administrative duties

Duties:

• Assist Controllers
• Manage command operations
• Supervise field officers
• Inmate management oversight
• Security coordination

2026 Highlights: Deputy Controllers serve as seconds-in-command at major custodial centers and state commands nationwide, handling day-to-day operations.

6. Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC)

Symbol: One vertical star with crossed keys

Description: Assistant Controllers are 1-star officers who manage units within commands. They supervise teams and coordinate specific operations.

Key Features:

• 1-star officer rank
• Unit management
• Team supervision
• Operational coordination

Duties:

• Manage operational units
• Supervise correctional teams
• Coordinate security operations
• Report to superiors
• Execute enforcement actions

2026 Highlights: Assistant Controllers lead operational units within custodial centers, managing specific sections like maximum security wings, female sections, or juvenile facilities.

SUPERINTENDENT CADRE RANKS AND SYMBOLS

The Superintendent Cadre is for officers with HND or BSc qualifications. They hold middle management positions and bridge the gap between senior officers and field personnel.

7. Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC)

Symbol: Three mini stars with correctional emblem

Description: This is the highest rank in the Superintendent Cadre. CSCs have significant operational authority and manage major sections within custodial centers.

Key Features:

• Highest superintendent rank
• Major section management
• Operational authority
• Middle management leader

Duties:

• Manage major custodial sections
• Supervise superintendent teams
• Coordinate security operations
• Administrative oversight
• Inmate management

2026 Highlights: Chief Superintendents earn between ₦110,000 to ₦140,000 monthly. They manage important sections like maximum security wings, awaiting trial sections, and condemned cells.

8. Superintendent of Corrections (SC)

Symbol: Two mini stars with correctional emblem

Description: Superintendents supervise sections within custodial centers and ensure compliance with correctional regulations. They lead teams of junior officers in daily operations.

Key Features:

• Mid-level superintendent rank
• Section supervision
• Team leadership
• Daily operations management

Duties:

• Supervise custodial sections
• Ensure regulatory compliance
• Lead correctional teams
• Manage daily operations
• Report to Chief Superintendent

2026 Highlights: Superintendents earn approximately ₦100,000 monthly. They are actively involved in inmate management, security operations, and reformation programs.

9. Deputy Superintendent of Corrections (DSC)

Symbol: One mini star with correctional emblem

Description: DSCs are officers primarily engaged in field operations within custodial centers. They assist Superintendents in managing operations and security.

Key Features:

• Junior superintendent rank
• Field operations focus
• Security duties
• Operational support

Duties:

• Assist Superintendents
• Field operations and security
• Inmate supervision
• Cell inspections
• Investigation support

2026 Highlights: Deputy Superintendents earn between ₦85,000 to ₦95,000 monthly. They work directly with inmates, conduct searches, and maintain security.

10. Assistant Superintendent of Corrections I & II (ASC I & II)

Symbol: Distinctive insignia (varies by level)

Description: ASC ranks are entry-level positions for HND and BSc holders. ASC II is the starting rank for degree holders, while ASC I is the first promotion.

Key Features:

• Entry rank for graduates
• For HND/BSc holders
• Under training/mentorship
• Junior superintendent

Duties:

• Learn correctional procedures
• Assist senior officers
• Conduct inmate counts
• Supervise cell blocks
• Execute assigned tasks

2026 Highlights: ASC II is the starting point for degree holders. Monthly salary ranges from ₦75,000 to ₦95,000. Clear promotion pathways to higher ranks.

INSPECTORATE CADRE RANKS AND SYMBOLS

The Inspectorate Cadre handles frontline duties including inmate supervision, security operations, and daily custodial management. These are operational personnel with ND or NCE qualifications.

11. Chief Inspector of Corrections (CIC)

Symbol: Three chevrons with correctional eagle and emblem

Description: This is the highest rank in the Inspectorate Cadre. CICs lead inspection teams within custodial centers and conduct security operations.

Key Features:

• Highest inspectorate rank
• Team leadership
• Security operations
• Section command

Duties:

• Lead inspection teams
• Conduct security operations
• Supervise junior inspectors
• Enforce correctional regulations
• Manage cell blocks

2026 Highlights: Chief Inspectors earn between ₦80,000 to ₦90,000 monthly. This is the target rank for ND holders and promoted Correctional Assistants.

12. Inspector of Corrections (IC)

Symbol: Two chevrons with correctional emblem

Description: Inspectors work directly with inmates within custodial centers. They conduct cell inspections, maintain security, and supervise daily activities.

Key Features:

• Mid-level inspectorate rank
• Inmate supervision
• Security operations
• Direct custodial duties

Duties:

• Supervise inmates daily
• Conduct cell inspections
• Maintain security protocols
• Monitor inmate behavior
• Enforce discipline

2026 Highlights: Inspectors earn between ₦70,000 to ₦80,000 monthly. They form the backbone of daily custodial operations, working shifts to ensure 24/7 security.

13. Assistant Inspector of Corrections I & II (AIC I & II)

Symbol: One chevron or basic insignia (varies by level)

Description: AICs support Inspectors in custodial operations and security duties. AIC II is the entry rank for ND/NCE holders, while AIC I is the first promotion.

Key Features:

• Entry rank for ND/NCE holders
• Custodial operations
• Security support
• Direct inmate contact

Duties:

• Assist Inspectors
• Supervise inmate movements
• Conduct searches
• Maintain cell security
• Monitor facilities

2026 Highlights: AIC II (entry) earn between ₦60,000 to ₦70,000 monthly, while AIC I earn ₦70,000 to ₦80,000. They work directly in cell blocks, conducting counts and searches.

ASSISTANT CADRE RANKS AND SYMBOLS

Correctional Assistants are entry-level personnel who handle support duties and basic custodial operations. This cadre is for SSCE (Senior Secondary Certificate Examination) holders.

14. Chief Correctional Assistant (CCA)

Symbol: Three chevrons with service emblem

Description: This is the highest rank in the Assistant Cadre. CCAs have significant experience and often supervise teams of junior assistants.

Key Features:

• Highest assistant rank
• Senior support role
• Team supervision
• Experienced personnel

Duties:

• Supervise correctional assistants
• Coordinate support operations
• Assist in inmate management
• Maintain facility security
• Report to inspectors

2026 Highlights: Chief Correctional Assistants earn between ₦80,000 to ₦90,000 monthly. Many have 15-20+ years of service and serve as mentors to junior staff.

15. Senior Correctional Assistant (SCA)

Symbol: Two chevrons with service emblem

Description: SCAs have gained experience from CA I level. They perform custodial functions and support operations under supervision of inspectors.

Key Features:

• Senior assistant rank
• Support operations
• Experienced staff
• Supervision duties

Duties:

• Support custodial operations
• Assist in inmate supervision
• Facility maintenance
• Administrative duties
• Security support

2026 Highlights: Senior Correctional Assistants earn between ₦70,000 to ₦80,000 monthly. They often work in specific departments like medical units, workshops, or administrative offices.

16. Correctional Assistant I (CA I)

Symbol: One chevron with service emblem

Description: CA I officers have been promoted from CA II level. They perform basic correctional functions and support daily operations.

Key Features:

• Mid-level assistant rank
• Basic operations
• Support duties
• Gaining experience

Duties:

• Support daily operations
• Assist in inmate management
• Facility security support
• Basic administrative tasks
• Escort duties

2026 Highlights: Correctional Assistant I officers earn between ₦60,000 to ₦70,000 monthly. This rank shows progression from entry-level.

17. Correctional Assistant II (CA II)

Symbol: Basic insignia or no chevrons

Description: This is the entry-level rank for SSCE holders. CA II officers are newly recruited personnel undergoing basic training and orientation.

Key Features:

• Entry-level rank
• For SSCE holders
• Under basic training
• Learning procedures

Duties:

• Undergo basic training
• Assist senior personnel
• Learn correctional procedures
• Perform assigned basic tasks
• Support facility operations

2026 Highlights: CA II is the starting point for school certificate holders. Monthly salary ranges from ₦30,000 to ₦40,000 during training, increasing to ₦50,000-₦60,000 after confirmation.

How to Identify Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks

You can identify an officer’s rank by checking the insignia on their shoulder epaulets:

Commissioned Officers:

• Wear stars and Nigerian coat of arms on shoulder epaulets
• Crossed keys symbol for correctional service
• Number of stars indicates rank level (1-3 stars)
• Most senior officers wear golden insignia

Superintendent Cadre:

• Wear mini stars on shoulder epaulets
• Number of stars shows rank (1-3 mini stars)
• Middle management symbols
• HND/BSc holders start here

Inspectorate Cadre:

• Wear chevrons with correctional emblem
• Number of chevrons shows rank
• Frontline operational personnel
• ND/NCE holders start here

Assistant Cadre:

• Wear simple chevrons or basic insignia
• Entry-level and support ranks
• SSCE holders start here
• Progress through experience and training

Nigerian Correctional Service Salary Structure 2026

The NCoS follows the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS). Salaries were adjusted following the 2024 minimum wage increase. Here’s the breakdown:

Commissioned Officers:

• Controller-General: ₦3,500,000+ monthly
• Deputy Controller-General: ₦2,500,000 – ₦3,000,000
• Assistant Controller-General: ₦2,000,000 – ₦2,500,000
• Controller of Corrections: ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000
• Deputy Controller: ₦1,200,000 – ₦1,500,000
• Assistant Controller: ₦700,000 – ₦1,200,000

Superintendent Cadre:

• CSC: ₦400,000 – ₦500,000
• SC: ₦300,000 – ₦400,000
• DSC: ₦250,000 – ₦300,000
• ASC I: ₦220,000 – ₦250,000
• ASC II: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000

Inspectorate Cadre:

• CIC: ₦150,000 – ₦180,000
• IC: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000
• AIC I: ₦110,000 – ₦130,000
• AIC II: ₦90,000 – ₦110,000

Assistant Cadre:

• CCA: ₦100,000 – ₦120,000
• SCA: ₦85,000 – ₦100,000
• CA I: ₦75,000 – ₦85,000
• CA II: ₦70,000 – ₦80,000

Additional Allowances:

• Housing allowance
• Transport allowance
• Hazard/risk allowance (substantial for correctional work)
• Duty post allowance
• Uniform allowance
• Special duty allowances
• Overtime pay for extra shifts

Career Progression Timeline

Understanding how long it takes to climb the ranks helps set realistic expectations:

SSCE Holders (Starting as CA II):

• Years 0-3: CA II (entry level)
• Years 3-6: CA I (first promotion)
• Years 6-10: SCA (with good record)
• Years 10-15: CCA (highest without further education)
• Further education (ND/HND) opens door to Inspectorate/Superintendent cadres

ND/NCE Holders (Starting as AIC II):

• Years 0-3: AIC II (entry level)
• Years 3-5: AIC I (first promotion)
• Years 5-8: IC (with good performance)
• Years 8-12: CIC (highest inspectorate rank)
• Further education (HND/BSc) opens door to Superintendent cadre

HND/BSc Holders (Starting as ASC II):

• Years 0-3: ASC II (entry level)
• Years 3-5: ASC I (first promotion)
• Years 5-8: DSC (steady progress)
• Years 8-12: SC (mid-level superintendent)
• Years 12-16: CSC (highest superintendent)
• Years 16-20: ACC II (entering commissioned ranks)
• Years 20-25: ACC I, DCC, CC (advancing through commissioned ranks)
• Years 25-30+: ACG, DCG (very senior positions)
• Years 30-35: Potential CGC (exceptional officers only)

2026 Tips for Fast Promotion:

• Maintain excellent service record
• Pursue higher education while serving
• Attend training courses and seminars
• Demonstrate leadership abilities
• Stay disciplined (no infractions)
• Volunteer for challenging assignments
• Build strong relationships with superiors
• Show initiative in reformation programs

Training and Entry Requirements

For SSCE Holders (CA II Entry):

• SSCE or NECO with 5 credits including English and Mathematics
• Age: 18-25 years
• Height: Males 1.68m minimum, Females 1.65m minimum
• Chest measurement: Males 86cm minimum
• Medically fit
• Good character

For ND/NCE Holders (AIC II Entry):

• National Diploma or NCE in any field
• Age: 18-27 years
• SSCE with 5 credits
• Same physical requirements as above
• Good character reference

For HND/BSc Holders (ASC II Entry):

• HND or Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
• Age: 18-30 years
• NYSC discharge certificate
• Same physical requirements
• Good character reference

Training Duration:

• CA II: 6 months basic training at Training College
• AIC II: 6 months basic training
• ASC II: 9-12 months training including leadership courses
• Commissioned Officers: 12-18 months comprehensive training

Training Locations:

• Nigerian Correctional Service Staff Training College, Kaduna
• Zonal Training Centers across Nigeria
• On-the-job training at various custodial centers

2026 Application Process: Visit www.corrections.gov.ng for recruitment announcements. Recruitment happens annually or bi-annually depending on service needs. Be wary of scammers demanding money for recruitment—NCoS recruitment is FREE.

Avoiding Scams – Stay Safe

Red Flags:

• ❌ Pay money upfront to start
• ❌ “Get rich quick” promises
• ❌ Requires bank password
• ❌ Too good to be true earnings
• ❌ Pressure to join now
• ❌ No clear business model

Legitimate Signs:

• ✅ Free to join
• ✅ Clear payment terms
• ✅ Positive reviews (Google, Hello Peter)
• ✅ Established company
• ✅ Transparent process
• ✅ Realistic earnings

Stay Safe:

• Research on Google
• Check official websites
• Start with trusted platforms
• Never share banking details
• If unsure, don’t do it

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Understanding Nigerian Correctional Service Hierarchy

The Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks And Symbols 2026 provides a clear structure for command, operations, and discipline. From Correctional Assistant II at entry level to Controller-General at the top, each rank carries specific responsibilities vital to managing Nigeria’s correctional system and rehabilitating inmates.

Whether you plan to join the NCoS or simply want to understand Nigeria’s correctional structure, knowing these ranks helps you identify authority levels and appreciate the organized hierarchy. The symbols worn by Correctional personnel represent years of training, dedication, and service to the nation.

What do you think about Nigerian Correctional Service ranks? Are you interested in joining the NCoS? Share your thoughts about the Nigerian Correctional Service Ranks And Symbols 2026 in the comments below!