Are you curious about how much a secondary school teacher earns in Nigeria in 2025? Whether you're planning to become a teacher, already teaching, or simply want to understand the pay structure, this article explains everything you need to know.
The secondary school teacher salary structure in Nigeria (2025) depends on several factors like qualification, level, years of experience, and whether you teach in a public or private school. This article breaks it all down in a simple and clear format.
Let’s get started.
Who Is a Secondary School Teacher in Nigeria?
A secondary school teacher in Nigeria is someone trained to teach students in Junior Secondary School (JSS1–3) and Senior Secondary School (SSS1–3). They usually specialize in a subject area like English, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Economics, etc.
To become a secondary school teacher in Nigeria, you must have:
A Bachelor’s Degree in Education (B.Ed) or
A Bachelor’s Degree in a subject + PGDE (Postgraduate Diploma in Education)
Or a Higher National Diploma (HND) + PGDE (in some states)
What Is the Official Secondary School Teacher Salary Structure in Nigeria (2025)?
The secondary school teacher salary structure in Nigeria (2025) is determined by:
Qualification (B.Ed, B.Sc, HND, PGDE)
Grade Level (GL 08 to GL 17)
State or Federal government employment
Years of teaching experience
Below is a full breakdown based on where the teacher works.
1. State Secondary School Teacher Salary (2025)
Most secondary school teachers in Nigeria work under TESCOM (Teaching Service Commission) of each state. Salaries are paid by state governments.
Entry-Level Salary in State Secondary Schools:
Grade Level 08 (Fresh Graduate with B.Ed): ₦65,000 – ₦85,000
Grade Level 09 (2–4 years of experience): ₦88,000 – ₦105,000
Grade Level 10–12 (Senior Teachers / Subject Heads): ₦110,000 – ₦140,000
Grade Level 13–14 (Vice Principals): ₦145,000 – ₦165,000
Grade Level 15–17 (Principals / Senior Admin): ₦170,000 – ₦250,000
Best Paying States in 2025:
Lagos State: Up to ₦250,000/month
Ogun State: ₦200,000/month
Rivers State: ₦180,000/month
Abuja (FCT): ₦170,000/month
Delta State: ₦165,000/month
Some states offer rural posting allowances and housing support to teachers posted in villages or difficult terrains.
2. Federal Government Secondary School Teacher Salary (2025)
Federal schools like Federal Government Colleges (Unity Schools) pay more stable and structured salaries under the CONPCASS salary scale.
Federal Secondary School Teacher Pay (2025):
CONPCASS 8 (Entry Level): ₦95,000 – ₦110,000
CONPCASS 9: ₦115,000 – ₦130,000
CONPCASS 10 – 12: ₦140,000 – ₦170,000
CONPCASS 13 – 15: ₦180,000 – ₦250,000
Federal teachers also enjoy:
Consistent payment
Leave bonuses
Pension contributions
Promotion-based increments
3. Private Secondary School Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Private schools pay different salaries based on their size, reputation, and location.
Three Categories of Private School Pay:
Low-cost schools (rural/poor areas): ₦30,000 – ₦60,000/month
Average schools (urban centers): ₦65,000 – ₦100,000/month
Elite private schools (Lagos, Abuja): ₦120,000 – ₦250,000/month
Top-tier schools may offer other benefits like:
Free lunch
Health insurance
Staff accommodation
Paid holidays
However, most low-cost private schools do not provide any extra benefits.
4. Allowances for Secondary School Teachers in Nigeria (2025)
In addition to the basic salary, some teachers enjoy various allowances, especially in federal and some state institutions.
Common Allowances Include:
Rural Posting Allowance: ₦5,000 – ₦15,000/month
Transport Allowance: ₦3,000 – ₦10,000/month
Housing Allowance: ₦8,000 – ₦20,000/month
Responsibility Allowance (for Principals or Heads of Department): ₦10,000 – ₦30,000/month
Leave Bonus: Paid once a year, around 10% of annual salary
Annual Increment: Yearly raise based on performance or length of service
These allowances help boost the total monthly income for teachers, especially those with added responsibilities.
Promotion and Salary Progression for Secondary School Teachers
A teacher’s salary increases with time as they move from one Grade Level to another.
Sample Career Growth Path:
Level 08 (New Teacher)
Level 09 (2–3 years)
Level 10 (4–5 years)
Level 12 (6–10 years)
Level 13–14 (Subject Head / Vice Principal)
Level 15–17 (Principal or Director)
With each promotion comes a salary increase, access to more allowances, and greater responsibilities.
Summary Table: Secondary School Teacher Salary Structure in Nigeria (2025)
| Category | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| State Schools (Entry – Senior) | ₦65,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Federal Unity Schools | ₦95,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Private Schools (Low to High) | ₦30,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Rural / Transport Allowance | ₦5,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Principal/HoD Responsibility Bonus | ₦10,000 – ₦30,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the starting salary of a secondary school teacher in Nigeria?
In 2025, most public school teachers start at ₦65,000 – ₦85,000/month depending on the state.
Which state pays secondary school teachers the highest salary?
Lagos State pays the highest, up to ₦250,000/month for senior teachers and principals.
Are federal teachers better paid than state teachers?
Yes. Federal secondary school teachers enjoy higher and more consistent salaries, along with more allowances.
Do private schools pay more than public schools?
Only elite private schools pay more. Many private schools pay less than state or federal government schools.
Can a secondary school teacher earn over ₦200,000 monthly?
Yes. Senior staff, especially in Lagos, Abuja, or federal colleges, can earn above ₦200,000 with allowances.
Final Thoughts: Secondary School Teacher Salary Structure in Nigeria (2025)
The secondary school teacher salary structure in Nigeria (2025) has improved in many states. While there are still challenges like irregular payments in some LGAs, better-paying states and federal institutions have made teaching a more attractive career.
With the right qualification, consistent promotions, and positioning in states like Lagos, Ogun, or Rivers, a teacher can earn a decent and stable income.
If you're looking to join the profession or already teaching:
Consider applying to federal or top state schools
Upgrade your qualifications with PGDE or B.Ed
Apply for promotions to enjoy better salary packages
Choose urban locations or private schools that pay well
Teaching remains one of the most important and rewarding professions in Nigeria. And with improvements in the salary system, the future looks even brighter for educators across the country.