The Nigerian Peace Corps (NPC), founded in 1998 by Dr. Dickson A. O. Akoh, aims to foster peace, youth development, and social order in Nigeria. Unlike traditional military organizations, the NPC is funded through donations, grants, and endowments rather than government budgets, which affects its salary structure.
Ranks in the Nigerian Peace Corps
The Nigerian Peace Corps has a hierarchical structure with unique ranks:
- Commandant General (CG): Highest rank, denoted by one NPC arm, two stars, and one eagle.
- Deputy Commandant General (DCG): One NPC arm, one star, and one eagle.
- Assistant Commandant General (ACG): One NPC arm, one NPC bar, and one eagle.
- Commandant (CN): One NPC arm and one eagle.
- Deputy Commandant (DCN): One NPC arm and one star.
- Assistant Commandant (ACN): One NPC arm.
- Chief Superintendent (CSN): One star and one eagle.
- Superintendent (SN): One eagle.
- Deputy Superintendent (DSN): Three stars.
- Assistant Superintendent 1 (ASN 1): Two stars.
- Assistant Superintendent 2 (ASN 2): One star.
- Inspector 1: Three metal bars.
- Inspector 2: Two metal bars.
- Inspector 3: One metal bar.
- Corper Assistant 1 (Corper 1): Three wool bars.
- Corper Assistant 2 (Corper 2): Two wool bars.
- Corper Assistant 3 (Corper 3): One wool bar.
- Private Corper: One empty wool bar, the lowest rank.
Salary Structure
The NPC’s salary structure is distinct from military organizations due to its funding sources. Salaries are generally lower than those in the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as they rely on donations and grants. Members typically receive stipends and additional benefits such as uniforms and kits rather than substantial salaries.
Membership Categories
- Permanent Staff Officers: Unemployed youths with at least an SSCE who receive stipends and can use their experience for future employment opportunities.
- Peace Corps Volunteers: Employed professionals who volunteer, receiving uniforms, kits, and honoraria but no salaries.
- Student Members: Students who participate voluntarily in Peace Corps activities to gain leadership and community service experience.
Functions of the Nigerian Peace Corps
The NPC is involved in various activities, including:
- Enlisting and training youths for social order and public safety.
- Providing intelligence to security agencies.
- Promoting peace education and conflict resolution.
- Securing educational institutions from social vices.
- Engaging in community services like crowd control and emergency relief.
The Nigerian Peace Corps provides young Nigerians with opportunities to contribute to peace and social order while gaining valuable skills and experiences.