Are you wondering how much teachers earn in Nigeria based on their grade levels? In this guide, we’ll break down the Level 8–17 teacher salary in Nigeria per month in 2025 across different sectors like federal, state, and private schools.
Whether you are a teacher already in the system, planning to apply, or simply researching salary structures, this article gives you a full breakdown of what to expect at each level.
Let’s dive into the current reality of how teacher salary by level in Nigeria works and what you can earn from Level 8 to Level 17.
Understanding Grade Levels for Teachers in Nigeria
Before we explore the salary amounts, it's important to understand what grade levels mean.
In Nigeria, teachers in public schools are placed on grade levels (GL) based on their qualifications, experience, and years of service. The higher your level, the higher your salary and responsibilities.
Here’s a quick overview:
Level 8 – Entry-level for graduate teachers (B.Ed, B.Sc + PGDE)
Level 9–12 – Mid-level teachers with a few years of experience
Level 13–14 – Senior teachers or department heads
Level 15–17 – Vice principals, principals, or education officers
Each level comes with its own basic salary, allowances, and promotion pathway. Let's now break it down.
Official Level 8 Teacher Salary in Nigeria Per Month (2025)
Level 8 teachers in Nigeria are usually fresh graduates who have completed their NYSC and employed either by the federal or state government.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦95,000 – ₦110,000/month
State Schools: ₦65,000 – ₦85,000/month
Private Schools: ₦50,000 – ₦70,000/month (for top-tier schools only)
Benefits at Level 8:
Entry-level housing or transport allowance
Annual leave allowance
Promotion eligibility after 2–3 years
This level is the starting point for many Nigerian teachers.
Level 9 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
After 2–3 years, a teacher may be promoted to Level 9, usually upon performance and additional training or qualifications.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦110,000 – ₦125,000/month
State Schools: ₦80,000 – ₦95,000/month
Role/Responsibilities:
Supervising classroom activities
Handling more advanced subjects or topics
Starting to serve as assistant exam coordinators
Level 10 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
At Level 10, a teacher now qualifies for more senior roles within the school and may take on leadership or mentorship responsibilities.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦125,000 – ₦140,000/month
State Schools: ₦90,000 – ₦110,000/month
Perks:
Rural or posting allowance (₦5,000–₦15,000)
Increment in leave and housing bonuses
More responsibility in school programs
Level 12 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Teachers at Level 12 are no longer considered junior staff. They may act as Heads of Subject or Senior Teachers.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦140,000 – ₦160,000/month
State Schools: ₦110,000 – ₦130,000/month
Level 12 is also the qualifying stage to begin applying for school management roles such as exam officers, subject heads, or curriculum leads.
Level 13 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Level 13 is often the transition level into administrative roles or principalship pathways.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦160,000 – ₦180,000/month
State Schools: ₦125,000 – ₦145,000/month
Teachers at this stage may be:
Vice principals
Acting principals
External examination coordinators
They also receive a Responsibility Allowance ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦30,000/month.
Level 14 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Level 14 teachers often serve as full vice principals or curriculum planners for larger institutions.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦180,000 – ₦200,000/month
State Schools: ₦140,000 – ₦160,000/month
Additional perks:
Leadership allowance
Dedicated office or staff room
Paid workshops and training sponsorships
Level 15 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Level 15 teachers are considered top-level management staff. They are usually school principals or directors of studies.
Salary Range:
Federal Schools: ₦200,000 – ₦220,000/month
State Schools: ₦150,000 – ₦180,000/month
They also receive:
Performance bonus
Duty post allowance
Leave bonuses up to ₦50,000/year
They lead school assemblies, oversee budgets, and serve as community education leaders.
Level 16 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
This grade level is not common in all states but exists in federal or high-budget institutions.
Salary Range:
Federal Education Boards: ₦220,000 – ₦240,000/month
Senior TESCOM/Inspectorate: ₦170,000 – ₦190,000/month
Teachers at this level may serve in ministry roles, policy units, or quality assurance departments.
Level 17 Teacher Salary in Nigeria Per Month (2025)
Level 17 is the highest grade level for Nigerian teachers under public service.
Salary Range:
Federal Educational Officers / Principals: ₦240,000 – ₦280,000/month
State Directors or Senior Inspectors: ₦190,000 – ₦230,000/month
They are responsible for:
Developing curriculum for the state/federal government
Approving teacher promotions
Representing education bodies nationally
This is often considered the peak of a teacher's career path in the civil service.
Summary: Level 8–17 Teacher Salary in Nigeria Per Month (2025)
| Grade Level | Public School Salary (₦) | Roles/Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Level 8 | ₦65,000 – ₦110,000 | Entry-level teacher |
| Level 9 | ₦80,000 – ₦125,000 | Assistant subject teacher |
| Level 10 | ₦90,000 – ₦140,000 | Senior classroom roles |
| Level 12 | ₦110,000 – ₦160,000 | Subject heads / exam coordinators |
| Level 13 | ₦125,000 – ₦180,000 | Vice principal or curriculum lead |
| Level 14 | ₦140,000 – ₦200,000 | Vice principal / senior planning roles |
| Level 15 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 | Principal / Director of Studies |
| Level 16 | ₦170,000 – ₦240,000 | Senior administrator or policy contributor |
| Level 17 | ₦190,000 – ₦280,000 | Top-level education officer / state principal |
What Affects a Teacher’s Salary at Each Level?
Several factors can affect what a teacher earns at any level:
State of Employment: Lagos, Abuja, Rivers pay higher
Posting Location: Rural teachers may earn more allowances
Years of Experience: Longer service may increase pay
Qualifications: B.Ed + M.Ed = better chances for promotion
Institution Type: Federal schools pay better than most states
FAQs: Level 8 to 17 Teacher Salary in Nigeria
How long does it take to move from Level 8 to Level 17?
Typically 20–25 years, depending on performance and promotions.
Is Level 17 the highest salary a teacher can get?
Yes. It’s the top civil service teaching level, though external consultancies or political appointments may pay more.
Which level earns over ₦200,000/month?
Level 14–17, especially in federal or top-performing state institutions.
Do private school teachers follow this salary structure?
No. Private schools use their own pay system, which may be lower or higher.
Final Thoughts on Level 8–17 Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
The Level 8–17 teacher salary in Nigeria per month (2025) shows clear growth for committed educators. While salaries still vary widely by state and employer, it’s encouraging to see structured opportunities for teachers to grow financially.
If you are a teacher, your best chances of earning more include:
Pursuing promotions regularly
Applying for federal schools or well-paying states
Taking up administrative responsibilities
Adding more qualifications (M.Ed, PGDE)
Teaching remains one of the most impactful professions, and with the right pathway, it can be financially rewarding as well.