If you are a teacher or planning to become one in Nigeria, you may already know that where you work significantly affects how much you earn and the benefits you receive. In Nigeria, the salary structure and benefits for teachers vary widely depending on the state government policies, cost of living, and education budget.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the top 10 best states to work as a teacher in Nigeria in 2025, comparing salaries, allowances, working conditions, and opportunities for career growth.
Whether you are a fresh graduate, an experienced teacher looking to relocate, or simply curious about teacher welfare in Nigeria, this detailed guide will help you make an informed choice.
Why Location Matters for Teachers in Nigeria
Teachers are employed by either federal, state, or private institutions. While federal jobs (like unity schools) offer standardized pay, most teachers in Nigeria work for state governments where pay can vary greatly.
Some states prioritize education and pay higher salaries with better benefits. Others lag behind, often delaying salaries or paying below-average rates.
That’s why choosing the right state is crucial if you want better pay, job security, and overall job satisfaction.
Criteria for Ranking the Best States for Teachers
We ranked these states based on:
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Average monthly salary for primary and secondary school teachers in 2025.
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Timeliness of salary payment.
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Extra allowances (housing, transport, hazard).
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Pension and gratuity benefits.
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Teacher training and promotion opportunities.
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Cost of living relative to salary.
Top 10 Best States to Work as a Teacher in Nigeria (2025)
Below are the states, ranked from good to best.
10. Plateau State
Why Plateau?
Plateau State offers stable teacher salaries and is known for peaceful work environments in its educational sector.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦55,000 – ₦80,000
Benefits:
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Rural posting allowance.
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Free teacher training workshops.
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Relatively low cost of living.
Challenges:
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Remote schools in rural areas can be difficult to access.
9. Akwa Ibom State
Why Akwa Ibom?
With a strong investment in education and infrastructure, Akwa Ibom rewards teachers fairly well.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦60,000 – ₦85,000
Benefits:
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Housing assistance for rural teachers.
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Regular payment of salaries.
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Education-friendly policies.
Challenges:
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Urban areas have higher cost of living.
8. Lagos State
Why Lagos?
As Nigeria’s economic hub, Lagos pays well and offers teachers many opportunities for professional growth.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦65,000 – ₦95,000
Benefits:
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Career advancement opportunities.
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Access to private tuition jobs.
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Transport allowances in some LGAs.
Challenges:
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High cost of living.
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Long commuting distances.
7. Delta State
Why Delta?
Delta State values education and provides attractive benefits for teachers, especially in oil-producing areas.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦65,000 – ₦90,000
Benefits:
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Rural posting incentives.
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Timely payment of salaries.
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Free health insurance for teachers.
Challenges:
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Schools in riverine areas may lack infrastructure.
6. Ogun State
Why Ogun?
Proximity to Lagos, combined with good pay and lower cost of living, makes Ogun a favorite among teachers.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦70,000 – ₦95,000
Benefits:
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Frequent training and workshops.
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Opportunities to work in private schools alongside.
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Pension-friendly.
Challenges:
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Competition for positions in urban areas.
5. Edo State
Why Edo?
Edo State’s progressive education policies make it an excellent choice for teachers.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦70,000 – ₦100,000
Benefits:
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Teachers are prioritized in budgets.
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Rural allowance.
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Digital teaching aids provided.
Challenges:
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Some rural areas still underserved.
4. Enugu State
Why Enugu?
Enugu offers stable pay, a welcoming atmosphere, and moderate living costs.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦75,000 – ₦100,000
Benefits:
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Regular payment of salaries.
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Teacher appreciation bonuses.
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Accommodation support in rural areas.
Challenges:
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Limited urban teaching slots.
3. Anambra State
Why Anambra?
Anambra is highly regarded for its educational achievements and teacher-friendly policies.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦80,000 – ₦105,000
Benefits:
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Performance bonuses.
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Pension and gratuity are well-managed.
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Free teacher development programs.
Challenges:
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Competition in urban areas.
2. Rivers State
Why Rivers?
With its oil wealth, Rivers can afford to pay teachers higher than most states.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦85,000 – ₦120,000
Benefits:
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High hazard allowance for teachers in volatile areas.
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Housing allowances.
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Modern facilities in many schools.
Challenges:
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Some rural areas are hard to reach.
1. Abuja (FCT)
Why Abuja?
Though technically not a state, the Federal Capital Territory tops this list because of excellent pay, low risk, and good working conditions.
Average Monthly Salary:
₦90,000 – ₦130,000
Benefits:
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Timely salary payments.
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Career development opportunities.
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Subsidized housing options.
Challenges:
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High cost of living in central Abuja.
Summary Table: Best States to Work as a Teacher in Nigeria 2025
| Rank | State | Salary Range (₦) | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abuja (FCT) | 90,000 – 130,000 | Timely pay, housing subsidy |
| 2 | Rivers | 85,000 – 120,000 | High hazard allowance |
| 3 | Anambra | 80,000 – 105,000 | Performance bonuses |
| 4 | Enugu | 75,000 – 100,000 | Regular salaries, bonuses |
| 5 | Edo | 70,000 – 100,000 | Rural allowance, tech aids |
| 6 | Ogun | 70,000 – 95,000 | Training opportunities |
| 7 | Delta | 65,000 – 90,000 | Health insurance |
| 8 | Lagos | 65,000 – 95,000 | Career growth options |
| 9 | Akwa Ibom | 60,000 – 85,000 | Housing support |
| 10 | Plateau | 55,000 – 80,000 | Low cost of living |
How to Choose the Best State for Teaching
When deciding where to work, consider:
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Your personal preferences (urban or rural).
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Family needs.
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Desired salary level.
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Career growth potential.
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Cost of living in the area.
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Stability and security of the state.
FAQs About Teaching in Nigeria (2025)
1. Which state pays teachers the highest salary in Nigeria?
Abuja (FCT) currently offers the highest average pay for teachers in 2025.
2. Are teachers’ salaries paid on time in all states?
Not all. States like Rivers, Anambra, Enugu, and Abuja are known for timely payments.
3. Do rural teachers earn more?
Often yes, because of rural posting allowances and bonuses.
4. Can teachers in one state transfer to another?
Yes, through inter-state transfers, but it depends on both state governments’ approval.
5. Which state has the lowest cost of living for teachers?
Plateau and Ogun offer moderate living costs compared to salary.
6. Are private school teachers paid better?
Sometimes, but benefits and job security are usually better in public schools.
7. Do states provide housing for teachers?
Some do, especially in rural areas or through housing allowances.
8. Is there a difference between primary and secondary school teacher salaries?
Yes. Secondary school teachers generally earn more.
9. How do I apply to teach in these states?
Watch for state Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) or Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) recruitment announcements.
10. Are there pension benefits for teachers?
Yes, public school teachers are enrolled in the government’s pension scheme.
Conclusion: Best States to Work as a Teacher in Nigeria 2025
Choosing the right state to teach in Nigeria can make a huge difference in your career satisfaction and financial well-being.
If your priority is highest salary and benefits, Abuja and Rivers are the top picks.
If you value stability, moderate cost of living, and supportive policies, states like Anambra, Enugu, and Ogun stand out.
For quiet, peaceful living with steady pay, Plateau is a good option.
We hope this guide helps you make the best choice for your teaching journey in 2025.