Looking for the updated entry-level salary structure for banks in Nigeria in 2025? You’re not alone. Thousands of Nigerian graduates and job seekers are eager to know how much banks pay fresh staff, especially at the entry point.
Whether you’re considering a banking career or just want to compare salaries across different banks, this guide gives you everything you need to know starting from the average monthly pay, bank-by-bank breakdown, benefits, training allowances, and career growth opportunities.
Let’s walk you through the real picture of entry-level banking salaries in Nigeria.
What Is Entry-Level Salary in Nigerian Banks?
The term “entry-level salary” refers to the basic monthly earnings a new bank employee receives right after completing training or probation. Entry-level employees are often fresh graduates or newly hired staff who start at the lowest staff rank, usually in customer service, teller roles, or as banking officers.
The entry-level salary for banks in Nigeria includes:
Basic salary
Housing/transport allowances
Meal subsidy (in some cases)
Training stipend (before confirmation)
In 2025, the average entry-level salary in Nigerian banks ranges from ₦120,000 to ₦250,000 per month, depending on the bank and the job function.
Why Banking Entry-Level Jobs Are Highly Sought After
Bank jobs in Nigeria are among the most prestigious for graduates because of the structured training, steady pay, and chance for rapid career growth. Even at entry level, banking offers:
Regular monthly pay
Health insurance
Staff loans
Promotion opportunities
Training and professional certification
This is why many people constantly ask about the entry-level salary structure for banks in Nigeria.
Entry-Level Salary Structure for Top Banks in Nigeria (2025)
Let’s break down the current entry-level pay for major Nigerian banks based on reliable industry sources and 2025 data.
1. Access Bank
Access Bank is one of the highest paying banks for entry-level employees.
Trainee Pay (during training): ₦43,000 – ₦60,000
Entry-Level Salary (after confirmation): ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 monthly
Bonuses: Yes, based on performance
Promotion Timeline: 12 to 18 months
Access Bank provides intense training, and salaries are often reviewed after the first year.
2. Zenith Bank
Zenith Bank pays very well, especially after confirmation.
Training Stipend: ₦40,000 – ₦50,000
Entry-Level Staff Salary: ₦170,000 – ₦210,000 monthly
Incentives: 13th month bonus, free lunch at some branches
Promotion Rate: Performance-based, very competitive
Zenith Bank rewards consistent performers with fast promotion and department transfers.
3. Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank)
GTBank is one of the most modern banks, and its salary structure reflects its tech-driven culture.
Trainee Pay: ₦50,000 – ₦60,000
Entry-Level Pay (after training): ₦180,000 – ₦230,000 per month
Bonus: Profit-sharing annually
Other Perks: Staff meals, training programs, leave allowance
GTBank also encourages internal transfers and promotes career advancement based on KPIs.
4. United Bank for Africa (UBA)
UBA has improved its entry-level salary structure in recent years.
Training Allowance: ₦45,000 – ₦55,000
Confirmed Entry-Level Staff Salary: ₦180,000 – ₦210,000
Incentives: Housing and transport allowance for some locations
Other Benefits: Healthcare, uniforms, staff transport (select branches)
UBA offers structured promotions for consistent performers after the first 18 months.
5. First Bank of Nigeria
As one of Nigeria’s oldest banks, First Bank offers job stability and good entry-level pay.
Trainee Salary: ₦40,000 – ₦55,000
Entry-Level Salary: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000
Annual Bonus: Yes, profit-based
Other Perks: Pension, staff loans, maternity/paternity leave
First Bank is ideal for those looking for long-term banking careers with steady growth.
6. Stanbic IBTC
Stanbic IBTC pays one of the highest starting salaries in Nigeria’s banking sector.
Training Pay: ₦55,000 – ₦70,000
Entry-Level Pay: ₦250,000 – ₦300,000
Bonus/Allowances: Yes, for key roles
Special Advantage: Investment banking positions pay even more
Stanbic is best for applicants with finance, accounting, or investment backgrounds.
7. Ecobank Nigeria
Ecobank has improved its staff welfare and pays fairly well for entry roles.
Trainee Salary: ₦40,000 – ₦50,000
Entry-Level Staff: ₦140,000 – ₦170,000 monthly
Bonus/Extras: Performance-based incentives
Career Growth: Available through internal recruitment
Ecobank also provides health insurance and end-of-year benefits.
8. Fidelity Bank
Fidelity Bank is gradually rising in the ranks for offering competitive pay.
Trainee Allowance: ₦35,000 – ₦45,000
Confirmed Staff Pay: ₦150,000 – ₦180,000
Other Incentives: Yes, including staff discount loans
Growth Path: Fast for those in marketing and product units
Fidelity promotes staff based on team results and customer performance.
9. Union Bank
Union Bank has restructured to offer better entry-level salaries in recent years.
Trainee Salary: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000
Entry-Level Salary: ₦150,000 – ₦190,000
Perks: Health insurance, pensions, internal loans
Bonuses: Based on yearly performance appraisal
Union Bank provides a supportive work environment and promotes inclusive hiring.
10. Polaris Bank
Polaris Bank offers a decent starting salary for fresh graduates.
Training Stipend: ₦30,000 – ₦40,000
Entry-Level Monthly Salary: ₦110,000 – ₦150,000
Promotion Timeline: After 1 year for top performers
Perks: Paid leave, insurance cover, and soft loans
Polaris is ideal for entry-level bankers seeking experience in retail banking.
Summary Table: Entry-Level Salary Structure for Banks in Nigeria (2025)
| Bank Name | Trainee Pay (₦) | Entry-Level Salary (₦) | Bonus/Incentive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access Bank | ₦43,000 – ₦60,000 | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 | Yes |
| Zenith Bank | ₦40,000 – ₦50,000 | ₦170,000 – ₦210,000 | Yes |
| GTBank | ₦50,000 – ₦60,000 | ₦180,000 – ₦230,000 | Yes |
| UBA | ₦45,000 – ₦55,000 | ₦180,000 – ₦210,000 | Yes |
| First Bank | ₦40,000 – ₦55,000 | ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 | Yes |
| Stanbic IBTC | ₦55,000 – ₦70,000 | ₦250,000 – ₦300,000 | Yes |
| Ecobank | ₦40,000 – ₦50,000 | ₦140,000 – ₦170,000 | Yes |
| Fidelity Bank | ₦35,000 – ₦45,000 | ₦150,000 – ₦180,000 | Yes |
| Union Bank | ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 | ₦150,000 – ₦190,000 | Yes |
| Polaris Bank | ₦30,000 – ₦40,000 | ₦110,000 – ₦150,000 | Yes |
Additional Benefits That Come with Entry-Level Banking Jobs
Besides the basic salary, most Nigerian banks offer the following:
Health Insurance (HMO)
Leave Allowance
Free Uniforms (UBA, First Bank)
Lunch Allowance (Zenith, GTBank)
Transport Subsidy
Staff Loans (Car loans, rent loans, personal loans)
Cost of Living vs Entry-Level Banking Salary in Nigeria
Let’s compare monthly living expenses with average entry-level banking salary.
| Item | Average Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Feeding | ₦25,000 – ₦40,000 |
| Transport (Work Commute) | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Rent (Shared) | ₦20,000 – ₦30,000 |
| Utility & Internet | ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 |
Even with a modest entry-level salary, bank staff can survive comfortably, especially if they stay in less expensive cities or access free lunch, housing loans, or staff transport.
Pro Tips for Entry-Level Bank Job Seekers in Nigeria
Prepare for Assessment Tests: Most banks use aptitude tests during recruitment.
Dress Professionally for Interviews: First impression matters.
Negotiate Wisely: Ask about training, confirmation period, and promotion speed.
Stay Disciplined: Banking is strict. Timeliness and professionalism matter.
Leverage LinkedIn & Referrals: Referrals increase your chances of getting hired.
FAQs – Entry-Level Salary Structure for Banks in Nigeria
Which bank pays the highest entry-level salary in Nigeria?
Stanbic IBTC, Access Bank, and GTBank offer the highest entry-level salaries in 2025.
How much do banks pay during training?
Most banks pay between ₦30,000 and ₦70,000 monthly during the training phase.
Do banks offer bonuses to entry-level staff?
Yes. Many banks offer performance-based bonuses and end-of-year incentives.
Can entry-level bank staff get promoted?
Yes. Most banks promote top performers within 12 to 24 months.
Are there extra benefits for entry-level banking staff?
Yes. Benefits include health insurance, transport allowance, lunch, leave pay, and staff loans.
Final Thoughts: Entry-Level Salary Structure for Banks in Nigeria (2025)
The entry-level salary structure for banks in Nigeria in 2025 remains competitive, offering graduates and job seekers a chance to earn well while building a solid career. With salaries ranging from ₦110,000 to ₦300,000 depending on the bank, the opportunities are vast.
From training to confirmation, banking offers more than just a paycheck — it comes with structure, respect, growth potential, and long-term stability. If you're considering joining the industry, this breakdown gives you a real view of what to expect and where to start.