If you’re planning to become a software developer in Nigeria or you’re already working in tech, one of the most important questions you may have is: How much do software developers earn in Nigeria?
The demand for developers has grown rapidly in the last few years because of the rise of startups, fintech companies, and global outsourcing opportunities. But salaries can vary widely based on experience, skill set, and even the type of company you work for.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the software developer salary in Nigeria (2025), how much you can earn at different levels, factors that affect your earnings, and tips to increase your income as a developer.
Why Software Developers Are in High Demand in Nigeria
Nigeria’s tech industry continues to grow in 2025. More companies now understand the value of having good software to manage their business and reach customers online.
Startups, banks, and even government agencies now hire developers to build websites, apps, and digital platforms.
This growing demand for developers is one reason why salaries in tech are rising, especially for skilled software developers.
Summary Table: Software Developer Salary in Nigeria (2025)
| Developer Level | Monthly Salary Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Developer | 150,000 – 300,000 |
| Junior Developer | 300,000 – 500,000 |
| Mid-Level Developer | 500,000 – 800,000 |
| Senior Developer | 800,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Lead Developer / Architect | 1,500,000 – 3,000,000+ |
| Remote Developer (Foreign) | 1,000,000 – 5,000,000+ |
Entry-Level Software Developer Salary in Nigeria
Who is an Entry-Level Developer?
An entry-level developer is someone who is just starting their career in software development, usually with less than one year of experience.
Salary Range
In 2025, entry-level developers in Nigeria earn between ₦150,000 and ₦300,000 per month.
Some companies pay even lower if it’s an internship or a trainee role, but as you gain more skills and experience, your income increases.
Junior Software Developer Salary in Nigeria
Who is a Junior Developer?
A junior developer has at least 1–2 years of experience and can handle small to medium tasks with little supervision.
Salary Range
Junior developers earn between ₦300,000 and ₦500,000 per month, depending on the company and their skills.
Mid-Level Software Developer Salary in Nigeria
Who is a Mid-Level Developer?
This developer has about 3–5 years of experience and can build, deploy, and maintain applications with little guidance.
Salary Range
Mid-level developers earn between ₦500,000 and ₦800,000 per month in 2025.
Senior Software Developer Salary in Nigeria
Who is a Senior Developer?
Senior developers usually have more than 5 years of experience. They lead projects, mentor juniors, and design scalable systems.
Salary Range
Senior developers earn between ₦800,000 and ₦1,500,000 per month, and sometimes more in high-paying firms or industries like fintech.
Lead Developer or Software Architect Salary in Nigeria
Who is a Lead Developer / Architect?
These professionals oversee development teams and make high-level technical decisions.
Salary Range
Lead developers or software architects earn ₦1,500,000 to ₦3,000,000+ per month.
At this level, you’re not just coding but also managing people and projects.
Remote Developer Salary in Nigeria (Foreign Jobs)
Why Remote Jobs Pay More
Many Nigerian developers now work remotely for companies abroad, earning in dollars. This usually pays more than local jobs.
Salary Range
Remote developers earn between ₦1,000,000 and ₦5,000,000+ per month, depending on the client and skill set.
Factors That Affect Software Developer Salary in Nigeria
Several factors determine how much you can earn as a software developer:
1. Experience
The more experience you have, the higher your salary.
2. Skills and Specializations
Developers who specialize in in-demand technologies like cloud computing, AI, or blockchain usually earn more.
3. Type of Company
Startups often pay less than banks, fintech companies, or multinationals.
4. Location
Jobs in Lagos tend to pay more than in other cities like Abuja or Port Harcourt.
5. Certifications
Certifications can help you negotiate better pay, especially in competitive industries.
Which Programming Languages Pay the Most in Nigeria?
Here are some of the highest-paying programming languages for Nigerian developers in 2025:
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JavaScript (Full Stack)
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Python (especially for data science and backend)
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Java
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Go
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Rust
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Solidity (for blockchain development)
Learning one or more of these languages can improve your earning potential.
Highest Paying Industries for Software Developers in Nigeria
Not all industries pay the same. Below are industries that pay developers the highest salaries:
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Fintech: High demand for developers to build secure and reliable apps.
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Telecommunications: Large systems and data-heavy operations.
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Oil and Gas: Strong budgets for digital transformation.
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HealthTech: Growing industry with complex requirements.
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E-commerce: Rapidly expanding market needs developers.
Tips to Increase Your Salary as a Software Developer in Nigeria
If you want to earn more as a developer, here are some actionable tips:
1. Improve Your Skills
Always learn the latest frameworks, tools, and technologies.
2. Build a Portfolio
Show real-world projects on GitHub or personal websites to attract better jobs.
3. Network with Others
Attend meetups, conferences, and online communities to find better opportunities.
4. Apply for Remote Jobs
Many remote jobs pay much higher than local ones.
5. Negotiate Smartly
Know your value and don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Software Developer Salaries in Nigeria
Q: What is the average software developer salary in Nigeria?
A: The average is around ₦400,000 – ₦600,000 per month, but senior and remote developers earn much more.
Q: Can developers earn over ₦1 million per month in Nigeria?
A: Yes. Senior, lead, or remote developers can earn over ₦1 million monthly.
Q: Do you need a degree to get a high-paying developer job?
A: Not necessarily. Skills and experience are more important in most cases.
Q: Which city in Nigeria pays developers the most?
A: Lagos has the highest-paying tech jobs in Nigeria.
Final Thoughts: Software Developer Salary in Nigeria (2025)
In 2025, software development remains one of the most lucrative careers in Nigeria. With salaries ranging from ₦150,000 for beginners to over ₦5 million monthly for top remote roles, this career offers incredible earning potential.
If you want to earn more as a software developer, focus on learning in-demand skills, building a strong portfolio, and applying for high-paying roles in growing industries.
The demand for skilled developers will only keep increasing — start building your career today!