If you have ever wondered how much lecturers in Nigeria earn, this article gives you a clear and detailed explanation of the lecturers salary in Nigeria per month (2025).
We will cover how much lecturers are paid at different ranks, how salaries differ across federal, state, and private universities, what factors influence lecturers’ pay, and if it is a good career choice in Nigeria today.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to expect if you plan to pursue a career as a lecturer in Nigeria.
Introduction to Lecturers Salary in Nigeria
Teaching at the university level is one of the most respected professions in Nigeria. Many people aspire to become lecturers because of the respect that comes with it and the opportunity to contribute to knowledge.
However, the lecturers’ salary in Nigeria per month depends on the university, the rank, and several other factors. This article breaks it all down in very simple terms.
How Much Do Lecturers Earn in Nigeria in 2025?
Lecturers’ monthly salaries in Nigeria vary based on their rank and the university where they teach. Here is an approximate range of salaries for lecturers in 2025:
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Graduate Assistant: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000
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Assistant Lecturer: ₦150,000 – ₦180,000
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Lecturer II: ₦200,000 – ₦250,000
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Lecturer I: ₦250,000 – ₦300,000
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Senior Lecturer: ₦350,000 – ₦450,000
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Reader/Associate Professor: ₦500,000 – ₦650,000
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Professor: ₦700,000 – ₦1,000,000
This is just a general guide, as salaries may differ slightly depending on the university and location.
Factors That Affect Lecturers’ Salaries in Nigeria
Several factors influence how much a lecturer earns in Nigeria. Below are some of the main ones:
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Rank: Higher-ranking lecturers earn more than junior lecturers.
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Type of University: Federal universities generally pay more than state universities, and both tend to pay more than private universities.
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Years of Experience: The longer you’ve been in the profession, the higher your salary.
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Educational Qualifications: Those with a PhD usually earn more than those with only a Master’s degree.
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Research Contributions: Lecturers who publish many papers or bring research grants to the university may also get additional allowances.
Salaries of Lecturers in Federal, State, and Private Universities
Federal Universities
Federal universities usually pay lecturers the highest salaries because they follow the consolidated salary structure agreed upon with ASUU (Academic Staff Union of Universities).
For example:
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Graduate Assistant: ₦130,000
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Lecturer II: ₦220,000
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Senior Lecturer: ₦400,000
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Professor: ₦900,000
State Universities
State universities pay slightly less than federal universities. The salary scale here also depends on the state’s budget and policies.
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Graduate Assistant: ₦120,000
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Lecturer II: ₦200,000
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Senior Lecturer: ₦350,000
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Professor: ₦800,000
Private Universities
Private universities vary widely in what they pay. Some top private universities pay better than state universities, while others pay much less.
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Graduate Assistant: ₦100,000 – ₦120,000
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Lecturer II: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000
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Senior Lecturer: ₦300,000 – ₦400,000
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Professor: ₦700,000 – ₦900,000
Other Benefits for Nigerian Lecturers
Apart from their monthly salaries, lecturers in Nigeria also enjoy other benefits:
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Housing allowance
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Research grants
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Medical care
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Sabbatical leave
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Conference sponsorship
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Pension and gratuity
These benefits make the job more attractive despite the challenges.
Challenges of Being a Lecturer in Nigeria
While being a lecturer comes with respect and benefits, there are also some challenges:
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Poor funding of universities, especially state-owned ones
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Delayed salaries in some universities
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High teaching and research workload
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Strikes and instability in the education sector
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Limited facilities and resources in many institutions
These issues have caused many Nigerian lecturers to seek opportunities abroad.
Advantages of Being a Lecturer in Nigeria
On the positive side, here are some advantages of being a lecturer in Nigeria:
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Opportunity to shape the future by teaching students
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Flexible working hours compared to corporate jobs
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Access to research funding and international collaborations
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Good job security, especially in federal universities
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Opportunity for career growth up to professorial level
Summary Table of Lecturers Salary in Nigeria (2025)
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Graduate Assistant | ₦120,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Assistant Lecturer | ₦150,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Lecturer II | ₦200,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Lecturer I | ₦250,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Senior Lecturer | ₦350,000 – ₦450,000 |
| Reader/Associate Professor | ₦500,000 – ₦650,000 |
| Professor | ₦700,000 – ₦1,000,000 |
How to Increase Your Salary as a Lecturer
If you want to earn more as a lecturer in Nigeria, here are some tips:
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Get a PhD and pursue higher academic qualifications.
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Publish research papers and books to build your profile.
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Apply for research grants and international collaborations.
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Move to a higher-paying university (federal or top private).
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Take on consulting or part-time teaching jobs to supplement your income.
Future of Lecturers’ Salaries in Nigeria
The Nigerian education system is evolving, and salaries for lecturers may increase in the future if the government invests more in education.
Many stakeholders are advocating for better pay and improved working conditions for academic staff, which could make the profession more attractive in the years to come.
Final Thoughts
Lecturing in Nigeria remains a respected and rewarding profession for those who are passionate about teaching and research.
Although lecturers’ salaries in Nigeria per month (2025) may not be as high as some other industries, it offers good job security, opportunities for growth, and other benefits.
If you’re considering a career as a lecturer, aim for excellence in your studies, earn higher qualifications, and focus on building your reputation in academia.
With patience and dedication, the rewards can be fulfilling both financially and professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much do professors earn monthly in Nigeria?
A: Professors in Nigeria earn between ₦700,000 and ₦1,000,000 monthly depending on the university.
Q: Which universities pay lecturers the highest?
A: Federal universities usually pay the highest, followed by top private universities.
Q: Do lecturers get housing and research allowances?
A: Yes, many universities offer housing, research grants, and other allowances.
Q: Is being a lecturer a good career in Nigeria?
A: Yes, it offers respect, job security, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Q: How can I earn more as a lecturer in Nigeria?
A: You can earn more by advancing your education, publishing research, and applying for better-paying universities or international opportunities.