The Nigerian Immigration Service Ranks And Symbols 2026 shows the complete hierarchy used by the Nigeria Immigration Service. The Comptroller-General of Immigration is the highest rank in the Nigerian Immigration Service. This makes the Comptroller-General the most senior officer who commands the entire service under the Minister of Interior.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is a paramilitary agency under the Federal Ministry of Interior. Established in 1963, the NIS is responsible for border control, issuance of passports and visas, immigration law enforcement, and migration management. With over 25,000 personnel across Nigeria’s borders and international airports, it is one of Africa’s most important border security agencies. These ranks and symbols help maintain order, discipline, and respect within the service.
Quick Summary: Nigerian Immigration Service Rank Categories
Commissioned Officers (8 Ranks):
- Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI)
- Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG)
- Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG)
- Comptroller of Immigration (CI)
- Deputy Comptroller of Immigration (DCI)
- Assistant Comptroller of Immigration (ACI)
Superintendent Cadre (3 Ranks):
- Chief Superintendent of Immigration (CSI)
- Superintendent of Immigration (SI)
- Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI)
- Assistant Superintendent of Immigration I & II (ASI I & II)
Inspectorate Cadre (3 Ranks):
- Chief Inspector of Immigration (CII)
- Inspector of Immigration (II)
- Assistant Inspector of Immigration (AII)
Immigration Assistant Cadre (3 Ranks):
- Immigration Assistant I (IA I)
- Immigration Assistant II (IA II)
- Immigration Assistant III (IA III)
How Nigerian Immigration Service Ranks Work
The Nigerian Immigration Service ranks are divided into four main categories. These are Commissioned Officers, Superintendent Cadre, Inspectorate Cadre, and Immigration Assistant Cadre. Commissioned Officers are senior leaders who make policy decisions and command operations. The other cadres carry out field operations, documentation, and administrative duties.
COMMISSIONED OFFICERS RANKS AND SYMBOLS
Commissioned officers are the top-tier personnel in the Nigerian Immigration Service. They handle strategic planning, policy implementation, and high-level administration. Their symbols typically feature stars, eagles, Nigerian coat of arms, and crossed sword and baton insignias.
1. Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI)
Symbol: Nigerian Coat of Arms, star, and crossed sword and baton
Description: This is the highest rank in the Nigerian Immigration Service. The CGI is appointed by the President of Nigeria for a renewable four-year term. This officer commands the entire service and reports directly to the Minister of Interior.
Key Features:
- Highest rank in NIS
- Appointed by the President
- Reports to Minister of Interior
- Renewable four-year term
Duties:
- Lead the entire Nigerian Immigration Service
- Formulate and execute national immigration policies
- Oversee border security nationwide
- Represent Nigeria at international immigration forums
- Make high-level policy decisions
2026 Status: Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap currently serves as CGI. She was appointed in 2023 by President Bola Tinubu as the first female to hold this position.
2. Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG)
Symbol: Nigerian Coat of Arms with two stars
Description: This is the second-highest rank. DCGs assist the CGI in supervising specific departments like Border Control, Passport Control, Visa & Residence Permit, or Operations. They often oversee multiple zones.
Key Features:
- Second-highest rank
- Heads major departments
- Assists the CGI
- Supervises multiple zones
Duties:
- Supervise major directorates
- Implement CGI directives
- Manage multiple operational zones
- Coordinate nationwide operations
- Policy execution and monitoring
2026 Status: There are currently multiple Deputy Comptrollers-General heading various directorates including Border Management, Passport Control, Enforcement, and Operations.
3. Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG)
Symbol: Nigerian Coat of Arms (without stars)
Description: ACGs supervise zones and departments under the DCG’s oversight. They enforce immigration procedures and regulations at the zonal level.
Key Features:
- Third-highest rank
- Zonal supervision
- Departmental oversight
- Policy enforcement
Duties:
- Supervise immigration zones
- Enforce immigration regulations
- Manage zonal operations
- Report to DCG
- Coordinate with state commands
2026 Status: Assistant Comptrollers-General serve as zonal coordinators and divisional heads across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
4. Comptroller of Immigration (CI)
Symbol: Three vertical stars
Description: This is a 3-star rank. Comptrollers command immigration operations at state or command level. They manage state commands and ensure immigration regulations are enforced.
Key Features:
- 3-star officer rank
- State/command leadership
- Border control responsibility
- Senior field commander
Duties:
- Command state-level operations
- Manage border control posts
- Supervise airport immigration desks
- Enforce immigration laws
- Coordinate with security agencies
2026 Highlights: Comptrollers of Immigration earn between ₦220,000 to ₦250,000 monthly. They command major international airports, seaports, border stations, and state immigration offices across Nigeria.
5. Deputy Comptroller of Immigration (DCI)
Symbol: Two vertical stars
Description: Deputy Comptrollers are 2-star officers who assist Comptrollers 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 Comptrollers
- Manage command operations
- Supervise field officers
- Border monitoring
- Enforcement coordination
2026 Highlights: Deputy Comptrollers serve as seconds-in-command at major immigration commands, international airports, seaports, and border stations nationwide.
6. Assistant Comptroller of Immigration (ACI)
Symbol: One vertical star and eagle
Description: Assistant Comptrollers 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 immigration teams
- Coordinate inspections
- Report to superiors
- Execute enforcement actions
2026 Highlights: Assistant Comptrollers lead operational units at airports, seaports, borders, and immigration offices across Nigeria.
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 Immigration (CSI)
Symbol: Three mini stars
Description: This is the highest rank in the Superintendent Cadre. CSIs have significant operational authority and manage major immigration posts.
Key Features:
- Highest superintendent rank
- Major post management
- Operational authority
- Middle management leader
Duties:
- Manage major immigration posts
- Supervise superintendent teams
- Coordinate operations
- Administrative oversight
- Field leadership
2026 Highlights: Chief Superintendents earn between ₦110,000 to ₦140,000 monthly. They manage important border posts and immigration facilities.
8. Superintendent of Immigration (SI)
Symbol: Two mini stars
Description: Superintendents supervise immigration posts and ensure compliance with laws. They lead teams of junior officers in field operations.
Key Features:
- Mid-level superintendent rank
- Post supervision
- Team leadership
- Field operations
Duties:
- Supervise immigration posts
- Ensure regulatory compliance
- Lead inspection teams
- Manage daily operations
- Report to Chief Superintendent
2026 Highlights: Superintendents earn approximately ₦100,000 monthly. They are actively involved in passport processing, visa issuance, and border enforcement.
9. Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI)
Symbol: One mini star
Description: DSIs are officers primarily engaged in field operations. They assist Superintendents in managing operations and enforcement.
Key Features:
- Junior superintendent rank
- Field operations focus
- Enforcement duties
- Operational support
Duties:
- Assist Superintendents
- Field operations and enforcement
- Border patrol supervision
- Documentation verification
- Investigation support
2026 Highlights: Deputy Superintendents earn between ₦85,000 to ₦95,000 monthly. They work directly at borders and airports.
10. Assistant Superintendent of Immigration I & II (ASI I & II)
Symbol: Distinctive insignia (varies by level)
Description: ASI ranks are entry-level positions for HND and BSc holders. ASI II is the starting rank for degree holders, while ASI I is a promotion.
Key Features:
- Entry rank for graduates
- For HND/BSc holders
- Under training/mentorship
- Junior superintendent
Duties:
- Learn immigration procedures
- Assist senior officers
- Conduct inspections
- Process documentation
- Execute assigned tasks
2026 Highlights: ASI 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 document verification, patrol, and enforcement at borders and ports. These are operational personnel with ND or NCE qualifications.
11. Chief Inspector of Immigration (CII)
Symbol: Varying chevrons with eagle and NIS crest
Description: This is the highest rank in the Inspectorate Cadre. CIIs lead inspection teams at border stations and conduct verifications.
Key Features:
- Highest inspectorate rank
- Team leadership
- Field operations
- Border station command
Duties:
- Lead inspection teams
- Conduct document verifications
- Supervise junior inspectors
- Enforce immigration regulations
- Manage border operations
2026 Highlights: Chief Inspectors earn between ₦80,000 to ₦90,000 monthly. This is the target rank for ND holders and promoted Immigration Assistants.
12. Inspector of Immigration (II)
Symbol: Chevrons with NIS emblem
Description: Inspectors work directly with the public at borders, airports, and immigration offices. They verify travel documents and process applications.
Key Features:
- Mid-level inspectorate rank
- Document verification
- Public interaction
- Field enforcement
Duties:
- Verify passports and visas
- Process immigration applications
- Border patrol duties
- Interview travelers
- Detect fraudulent documents
2026 Highlights: Inspectors earn between ₦70,000 to ₦80,000 monthly. They form the bulk of frontline immigration personnel.
13. Assistant Inspector of Immigration (AII)
Symbol: Basic chevrons
Description: AIIs support Inspectors in field operations and document verification. This is the entry rank for ND (National Diploma) and NCE holders.
Key Features:
- Entry rank for ND/NCE holders
- Field operations
- Document verification
- Support role
Duties:
- Assist Inspectors
- Verify travel documents
- Border patrol
- Data entry
- Enforcement support
2026 Highlights: Assistant Inspectors earn between ₦60,000 to ₦70,000 monthly. They work directly at ports of entry, airports, and borders.
IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT CADRE RANKS AND SYMBOLS
Immigration Assistants are entry-level personnel who handle administrative and support duties. This is for SSCE (Senior Secondary Certificate) holders.
14. Immigration Assistant I (IA I)
Symbol: Two chevrons
Description: IA I officers have gained experience from IA II level. They perform immigration functions like documentation and data entry under supervision.
Key Features:
- Promoted from IA II
- Basic immigration operations
- Documentation duties
- Under supervision
Duties:
- Process documentation
- Data entry and record keeping
- Physical document checks
- Assist senior officers
- Basic administrative duties
2026 Highlights: Immigration Assistant I officers earn between ₦70,000 to ₦75,000 monthly after promotion from IA II rank.
15. Immigration Assistant II (IA II)
Symbol: One chevron
Description: IA II is a step above IA III with slightly more experience and responsibilities. They assist in various immigration support tasks.
Key Features:
- Mid-level assistant rank
- Support operations
- Documentation assistance
- Gaining experience
Duties:
- Handle documentation
- Support operational tasks
- Assist in patrols
- Data processing
- Administrative support
2026 Highlights: IA II officers earn between ₦60,000 to ₦70,000 monthly. This rank shows progression from entry-level.
16. Immigration Assistant III (IA III)
Symbol: No insignia
Description: This is the entry-level rank for SSCE holders. IA III officers are newly recruited personnel undergoing basic training.
Key Features:
- Entry-level rank
- For SSCE holders
- Under basic training
- Learning immigration procedures
Duties:
- Undergo basic training
- Assist senior personnel
- Learn immigration procedures
- Perform assigned basic tasks
- Administrative support
2026 Highlights: IA III 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 Immigration 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 sword and baton for top ranks (CGI, DCG, ACG)
- Number of stars indicates rank level
- 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 NIS emblem
- Number of chevrons shows rank
- Frontline operational personnel
- ND/NCE holders start here
Immigration Assistant Cadre:
- Wear simple chevrons or no insignia
- Entry-level and basic ranks
- SSCE holders start here
- Progress through experience and training
Nigerian Immigration Service Salary Structure 2026
The NIS follows the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS). Here’s a quick overview:
By Qualification:
- SSCE Holders: ₦30,000 – ₦75,000 monthly (IA III to IA I)
- ND/NCE Holders: ₦60,000 – ₦90,000 monthly (AII to CII)
- HND/BSc Holders: ₦75,000 – ₦140,000 monthly (ASI II to CSI)
- Commissioned Officers: ₦150,000 – ₦2,000,000+ monthly
Additional Allowances:
- Housing allowance
- Transport allowance
- Duty post allowance
- Risk/hazard allowance
- Uniform allowance
- Border duty bonuses
These allowances can significantly increase total monthly income.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI) is the highest rank in the Nigerian Immigration Service. The CGI is appointed by the President of Nigeria for a renewable four-year term and commands the entire service under the Federal Ministry of Interior.
You can join through annual recruitment exercises with SSCE, ND/NCE, HND, or BSc qualifications. SSCE holders start as IA III, ND/NCE holders as AII, and degree holders as ASI II. Visit www.immigration.gov.ng for recruitment updates.
Degree holders (HND/BSc) start as Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II (ASI II), earning between ₦75,000 to ₦95,000 monthly plus allowances. This is in the Superintendent Cadre with clear promotion pathways.
A Comptroller of Immigration (3-star officer) earns between ₦220,000 to ₦250,000 monthly as basic salary, plus substantial allowances that can double the total compensation depending on duty post.
Chevrons (V-shaped stripes) indicate lower ranks in the Immigration Assistant and Inspectorate cadres. One chevron is IA II or basic rank, two chevrons is IA I, and multiple chevrons with emblems indicate Inspector ranks.
Yes, but it requires decades of service. SSCE holders start as IA III and must get promoted through all ranks. Most CGIs have university degrees and extensive experience. Furthering education speeds up promotion significantly.
Immigration officers retire at age 60 or after 35 years of service, whichever comes first. However, the CGI and other senior officers may serve beyond this if reappointed by the President.
Conclusion: Understanding Nigerian Immigration Service Hierarchy
The Nigerian Immigration Service Ranks And Symbols 2026 provides a clear structure for command, operations, and discipline. From Immigration Assistant III at entry level to Comptroller-General at the top, each rank carries specific responsibilities vital to protecting Nigeria’s borders and managing migration.
Whether you plan to join the NIS or simply want to understand Nigeria’s immigration structure, knowing these ranks helps you identify authority levels and appreciate the organized hierarchy. The symbols worn by Immigration personnel are not mere decorations—they represent training, dedication, and service to the nation.
What do you think about Nigerian Immigration Service ranks? Are you interested in joining the NIS? Share your thoughts about the Nigerian Immigration Service Ranks And Symbols 2026 in the comments below!
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