Looking to know how much teachers earn in Nigeria in 2025? You’re in the right place. Whether you're preparing for SUBEB or TESCOM recruitment, considering a teaching career, or simply comparing teacher salary across states, this detailed guide explains everything about the teacher salary structure in Nigeria 2025 from monthly pay by grade level to allowances and the highest-paying states.
This article covers:
How much teachers earn in Nigeria per month
The highest and lowest paid teaching states
Salary breakdowns by rank, qualifications, and government board
Allowances, career growth, and cost of living insights
And frequently asked questions searched by thousands of Nigerians
Who Pays Teachers in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, government-employed teachers fall under different boards and ministries, depending on the school level and location. The main categories include:
SUBEB (State Universal Basic Education Board): Handles public primary school teachers across local government areas.
TESCOM (Teaching Service Commission): Manages junior and senior secondary school teachers in state-owned schools.
Federal Ministry of Education / Unity Schools: Pays teachers working in Federal Government Colleges (FGCs).
Colleges and Universities: Pay lecturers based on CONUASS (Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure) for federal and state tertiary institutions.
All teachers are paid using structured salary scales such as CONPCASS, CONTISS, or civil service grade levels.
Teacher Salary Structure in Nigeria 2025 (By Qualification and Grade Level)
The Nigerian teacher salary system follows the civil service structure. Pay is largely determined by qualification, job rank, years of experience, and posting location.
Salary Breakdown by Grade Level (Primary & Secondary Teachers)
| Grade Level | Qualification | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| GL 07 | NCE | ₦50,000 – ₦68,000 |
| GL 08 | B.Ed / HND | ₦60,000 – ₦80,000 |
| GL 09 | PGDE / M.Ed | ₦80,000 – ₦95,000 |
| GL 10 – 12 | Senior Teachers | ₦95,000 – ₦130,000 |
| GL 13 – 16 | Principals / Directors | ₦140,000 – ₦190,000+ |
Most government teachers enjoy regular promotions every 3–4 years.
How Much Is the Teacher's Salary in Nigeria Per Month (2025)?
One of the most searched questions online is: What is the monthly salary of a teacher in Nigeria in 2025?
Here’s a clear breakdown:
NCE Holder (GL 07): ₦50,000 – ₦68,000
B.Ed / HND (GL 08): ₦60,000 – ₦80,000
M.Ed / PGDE (GL 09 and above): ₦80,000 – ₦190,000+
These figures represent base salaries and do not include allowances like housing or transport.
Which State Has the Highest Paid Teachers in Nigeria 2025?
As of 2025, Lagos State offers the highest teacher salary among all Nigerian states. This is followed by Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom.
Top 10 States with the Highest Teacher Salaries in Nigeria 2025
| State | Entry-Level Salary (₦) | Senior-Level Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos State | ₦60,000 – ₦68,000 | ₦190,000+ |
| Rivers State | ₦58,000 – ₦65,000 | ₦180,000+ |
| Delta State | ₦55,000 – ₦62,000 | ₦170,000+ |
| Akwa Ibom | ₦53,000 – ₦60,000 | ₦160,000+ |
| Ogun State | ₦55,000 – ₦65,000 | ₦150,000+ |
| Kwara State | ₦53,000 – ₦62,000 | ₦140,000+ |
| FCT Abuja | ₦60,000 – ₦65,000 | ₦140,000+ |
| Oyo State | ₦52,000 – ₦60,000 | ₦130,000+ |
| Ekiti State | ₦50,000 – ₦58,000 | ₦120,000+ |
| Enugu State | ₦48,000 – ₦56,000 | ₦110,000+ |
Lagos tops the chart due to its stronger economy, allowances, and timely salary payments.
What is the Lowest Teacher Salary in Nigeria?
In 2025, the lowest teacher salary is around ₦45,000 – ₦50,000 per month. This is common in rural northern states where budget allocation for education is lower.
Some states may delay salary payments or lack consistent allowances — a major concern for teachers in those regions.
How Much Is Government Primary School Teacher Salary in 2025?
Teachers working in government-owned primary schools under SUBEB are paid using the same civil service structure.
SUBEB Salary Breakdown (Primary School Teachers)
| Qualification | Entry Grade Level | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| NCE | GL 07 | ₦50,000 – ₦68,000 |
| B.Ed / HND | GL 08 | ₦60,000 – ₦80,000 |
| M.Ed / PGDE | GL 09+ | ₦80,000 – ₦95,000+ |
Teachers posted to remote areas often receive hardship or rural posting allowances.
What Type of Teacher Makes the Most Money in Nigeria?
Teachers with advanced qualifications, senior positions, and urban postings earn the most. Here are the top earners in the education system:
Principals / School Heads (GL 13 – 16): ₦140,000 – ₦190,000+
Federal Unity School Teachers: ₦130,000 – ₦180,000+
University Lecturers (Lecturer I & Above): ₦250,000 – ₦500,000+
College of Education Lecturers: ₦180,000 – ₦350,000+
Special Education Teachers / Examiners: Extra incentives available
Also, teachers posted to difficult terrains, Unity Schools, or those with long years of service tend to earn higher wages.
Allowances for Government Teachers in Nigeria (2025)
Government teachers receive various allowances in addition to their monthly salary. These improve total take-home pay.
Common Allowances for Teachers
| Allowance Type | Monthly Value (₦) |
|---|---|
| Housing Allowance | ₦10,000 – ₦25,000 |
| Transport Allowance | ₦6,000 – ₦15,000 |
| Duty Post Allowance | ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 |
| Rural/Hardship Allowance | ₦8,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Promotion Bonus (One-time) | ₦10,000 – ₦30,000 |
| Leave Allowance | One month’s basic salary |
Promotion and Career Growth for Teachers
Teachers are promoted based on performance, qualifications, and years of service. Promotion typically comes every 3–4 years and includes salary raises and responsibility upgrades.
Example Promotion Path
GL 07 → GL 08 (after 3 years)
GL 08 → GL 09 (after additional 3–4 years)
GL 12 → GL 13 (Senior Teacher → Principal)
Teachers with PGDE, M.Ed, or additional certifications often fast-track their promotions.
Cost of Living vs Teacher Salary in Nigeria (2025)
Depending on location, a teacher's salary can either be sufficient or barely enough.
Estimated Monthly Living Costs in Nigeria (Urban Area)
| Item | Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Feeding | ₦25,000 – ₦35,000 |
| Rent (Shared) | ₦20,000 – ₦50,000 |
| Transport | ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 |
| Utilities & Airtime | ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 |
Teachers living in states with lower cost of living (e.g., Ekiti, Gombe, Niger) tend to save more, especially when allowances are added.
FAQs on Teacher Salary in Nigeria 2025
How much is the teacher's salary in Nigeria per month?
Between ₦50,000 and ₦190,000+, depending on qualification, rank, and state.
What is the highest teacher salary per month in Nigeria?
Over ₦190,000 for senior government school principals or experienced lecturers.
Which state has the highest paid teachers in Nigeria?
Lagos State offers the highest teacher salary and best allowances in 2025.
What is the lowest teacher salary in Nigeria?
₦45,000 to ₦50,000 per month, often in less-funded rural states.
How much is government primary school teacher salary?
From ₦50,000 (GL 07 for NCE holders) up to ₦95,000+ for higher ranks.
How much is Lecturer I salary in Nigeria?
Lecturer I earns between ₦250,000 – ₦350,000 monthly, excluding bonuses.
What type of teacher makes the most money?
University lecturers, senior secondary school principals, and Unity School teachers earn the most.
Which state government pays teachers the best?
Lagos, Rivers, and Delta currently pay the best in 2025.
Is teaching a good career in Nigeria in 2025?
Yes, especially in states with strong educational funding and promotion structures.
Final Thoughts: Is Teaching Worth It in Nigeria 2025?
The teacher salary in Nigeria 2025 varies widely across states and ranks. While some states struggle with salary delays and low pay, others like Lagos, Rivers, and Delta offer competitive wages, regular promotions, and solid allowances.
If you're planning to become a government teacher in Nigeria, aim for:
States with better education budgets
TESCOM or SUBEB in top-paying regions
Federal institutions or Unity Schools for higher pay
With growing reforms in the education sector and increasing attention to teacher welfare, teaching remains a stable and rewarding career path for qualified Nigerians in 2025.