Differences Between Auxiliary Nurse and Registered Nurse Salary in Nigeria (2025)

Nursing is one of the most important careers in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and health centers across the country, providing care to millions of patients. However, not all nurses are on the same professional level. The two main categories are auxiliary nurses and registered nurses, and their salaries are very different.

In 2025, many people planning to join the nursing profession often ask:

• “What is the difference between an auxiliary nurse and a registered nurse?”

• “How much does an auxiliary nurse earn compared to a registered nurse in Nigeria?”

This article provides a full breakdown of the differences in salary, allowances, qualifications, duties, and career opportunities between auxiliary nurses and registered nurses.

Who Is an Auxiliary Nurse?

An auxiliary nurse is a healthcare worker who assists qualified nurses and doctors with basic patient care tasks. Auxiliary nurses are sometimes called nurse assistants or care assistants.

Key Characteristics of Auxiliary Nurses

1. Training: They are trained informally, often in private hospitals or nursing homes, for 6–18 months.

2. Qualification: They do not hold a nursing license from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).

3. Job roles: They perform basic tasks like bathing patients, feeding, cleaning, and assisting with non-technical procedures.

4. Career limitation: Auxiliary nurses cannot practice independently, and their roles are limited compared to registered nurses.

Who Is a Registered Nurse?

A registered nurse (RN) is a fully qualified nurse who has completed formal nursing education and passed the licensing exams of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

Key Characteristics of Registered Nurses

1. Training: They undergo a 3–4 year nursing program in an accredited nursing school or university.

2. Qualification: They are licensed professionals and can practice independently within their scope.

3. Job roles: Registered nurses perform advanced medical procedures, administer medications, and take responsibility for patient care.

4. Career opportunities: RNs can specialize, progress to senior positions, or work internationally.

Auxiliary Nurse vs Registered Nurse Salary in Nigeria (2025)

There is a significant difference in how much auxiliary nurses and registered nurses earn in Nigeria.

Average Monthly Salary

• Auxiliary nurses: ₦30,000 – ₦80,000 (depending on location and employer)

• Registered nurses: ₦80,000 – ₦250,000+ (depending on grade level, experience, and employer type)

Summary Table: Auxiliary Nurse vs Registered Nurse Salary in Nigeria (2025)

Auxiliary Nurse Salary in Nigeria (Detailed Breakdown)

Auxiliary nurses are mostly employed in private hospitals and clinics. Their salary is low compared to registered nurses because they lack formal training and licensing.

Factors Affecting Auxiliary Nurse Salary

1. Hospital size: Bigger hospitals pay more.

2. Location: Auxiliary nurses in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt earn more than those in rural areas.

3. Experience: Senior auxiliary nurses earn slightly higher than fresh trainees.

4. Duties: Those who handle more responsibilities may be paid extra allowances.

Average Salary Ranges

• Small private hospitals: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 monthly

• Medium-sized hospitals: ₦50,000 – ₦70,000 monthly

• Large private hospitals: ₦70,000 – ₦80,000 monthly

Auxiliary nurses rarely receive government allowances or pension benefits because most are employed on a casual or contract basis.

Registered Nurse Salary in Nigeria (Detailed Breakdown)

Registered nurses earn significantly higher salaries because they are qualified and licensed. Their salaries are structured under the CONHESS (Consolidated Health Salary Structure) in government hospitals.

Federal Government Hospitals (CONHESS)

• Entry-level RN (CONHESS 7): ₦80,000 – ₦120,000

• Mid-level RN (CONHESS 8 – 9): ₦130,000 – ₦180,000

• Senior RN (CONHESS 10 – 12): ₦200,000 – ₦250,000+

State Government Hospitals

• Salaries are slightly lower than federal hospitals, ranging from ₦70,000 – ₦200,000 monthly depending on the state.

Private Hospitals

• Small private clinics: ₦80,000 – ₦120,000

• Large private hospitals: ₦120,000 – ₦180,000

Allowances for Registered Nurses

RNs in government hospitals also receive allowances such as:

• Hazard allowance

• Shift duty allowance

• Call duty allowance

• Rural posting allowance

• Housing allowance

• Uniform allowance

These allowances can increase monthly take-home pay significantly.

Key Differences Between Auxiliary Nurse and Registered Nurse Salary

1. Qualification: Registered nurses are licensed professionals, so they earn more.

2. Employer type: Auxiliary nurses work mostly in private hospitals, while registered nurses can work in government hospitals that pay better.

3. Allowances: Auxiliary nurses rarely receive allowances; registered nurses enjoy multiple allowances.

4. Job security: Registered nurses have pension and job security, while auxiliary nurses often work on short-term contracts.

5. Career progression: Registered nurses can advance and increase their pay; auxiliary nurses have limited growth.

Why Registered Nurses Earn More Than Auxiliary Nurses

• Professional license: The NMCN license allows RNs to take on more responsibility.

• Education level: RNs undergo longer and more rigorous training.

• Scope of practice: RNs can perform advanced procedures, which attract higher pay.

• Job options: RNs can work internationally and earn foreign currency.

Should You Become an Auxiliary Nurse or a Registered Nurse?

While becoming an auxiliary nurse is faster and cheaper, it has serious limitations in terms of salary and career growth. Becoming a registered nurse requires more time and effort, but it offers better pay, job security, and opportunities for advancement.

Pros of Being an Auxiliary Nurse

• Shorter training duration (6–18 months)

• Easier to start working in private hospitals

• Lower training costs

Cons of Being an Auxiliary Nurse

• Low salary

• No professional license

• Limited career growth

• Less job security

Pros of Being a Registered Nurse

• Higher salary and allowances

• Job security and pension benefits

• Ability to specialize or work abroad

• Respect and recognition as a professional

Can Auxiliary Nurses Upgrade to Registered Nurses?

Yes, auxiliary nurses can become registered nurses by enrolling in an accredited nursing school or university, completing the 3–4 year program, and passing the NMCN licensing exams. This upgrade can significantly increase their salary and job prospects.

Career Growth and Salary Potential

Registered nurses have more opportunities for career growth than auxiliary nurses.

Registered Nurse Career Growth Options

1. Specialize in areas like midwifery, pediatrics, or anesthesia.

2. Advance to management positions like Chief Nursing Officer.

3. Work with international organizations (WHO, UNICEF, Red Cross).

4. Relocate abroad to countries with higher pay (UK, USA, Canada, Australia).

Auxiliary Nurse Career Growth Options

• Limited to upgrading to registered nurse status or working in private hospitals.

FAQs: Auxiliary Nurse vs Registered Nurse Salary in Nigeria (2025)

1. How much does an auxiliary nurse earn monthly in Nigeria?

Auxiliary nurses earn ₦30,000 – ₦80,000 monthly depending on hospital size and location.

2. How much does a registered nurse earn monthly in Nigeria?

Registered nurses earn ₦80,000 – ₦250,000+ monthly depending on grade level, employer, and allowances.

3. Do auxiliary nurses receive government allowances?

No, auxiliary nurses rarely receive allowances because most work in private hospitals.

4. Can auxiliary nurses work in government hospitals?

No, only registered nurses can be employed as professional nurses in government hospitals.

5. Which category has better job security?

Registered nurses enjoy better job security, pension, and benefits.

6. Can auxiliary nurses upgrade to become registered nurses?

Yes, they must enroll in an accredited nursing program and obtain the NMCN license.

7. Which pays more: private hospital RN or government hospital RN?

Federal government hospitals usually pay the highest salaries for registered nurses.

8. How long does it take to become a registered nurse?

It takes 3–4 years in a nursing school or university.

9. Can auxiliary nurses travel abroad to work?

No, most countries require the NMCN license, which only registered nurses have.

10. Which is better: auxiliary nurse or registered nurse?

Registered nurse is far better in terms of salary, career growth, and international opportunities.

Conclusion: Salary Differences Show Why Becoming a Registered Nurse Is Better

The differences between auxiliary nurse and registered nurse salary in Nigeria (2025) are very clear. Auxiliary nurses earn between ₦30,000 and ₦80,000 monthly, while registered nurses can earn ₦80,000 to ₦250,000+ monthly with allowances.

If you are planning to build a long-term nursing career, it is better to train as a registered nurse. The higher salary, job security, and career opportunities far outweigh the shorter training duration of auxiliary nursing.

Tip: If you are already an auxiliary nurse, consider upgrading your qualification. Becoming a registered nurse will greatly improve your salary and professional standing.