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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Graduate Trainee Salary For All Commercial Banks In Nigeria (2025 Official Breakdown)
Hello my Naija hustlers and fresh graduates! If you’ve just wrapped up NYSC or you’re about to, and you’re eyeing the banking sector (a.k.a. the land of suits and salary alerts), then you’re probably asking the realest question:
“How much do commercial banks in Nigeria pay graduate trainees?”
Well, wonder no more—because I’ve done the digging and I’m about to serve you the full graduate trainee salary structure across all the major commercial banks in Nigeria. No sugarcoating, no guesswork. Just straight-up facts to help you plan your next career move.
What is a Graduate Trainee in Banking?
If you're new to the game, here's the gist:
A graduate trainee is a fresh graduate employed by a bank and enrolled in a training program—usually lasting between 3 to 12 months. During this time, you’ll learn everything from customer service to loan processing, financial reporting, and even how to “sell” banking products (yes, they’ll teach you how to hustle politely).
It’s basically your ticket into the bank—but with a “trial version” salary. Once you complete the training, you might get absorbed as a full staff with a fatter paycheck. Key word: might. So shine your eye and bring your A-game.
Full List: Graduate Trainee Salaries in Nigerian Commercial Banks
|
Bank Name |
Graduate Trainee Monthly Salary (₦) |
Notes / Perks |
|
GTCO (GTBank) |
₦200,000 – ₦220,000 |
One of the best-paying for entry-level |
|
Access Bank |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
Often includes accommodation during training |
|
Zenith Bank |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
Pays promptly; strong internal training system |
|
First Bank of Nigeria |
₦150,000 – ₦180,000 |
Reputable training school; good benefits |
|
UBA (United Bank for Africa) |
₦90,000 – ₦120,000 |
Training duration is 3-6 months |
|
Fidelity Bank |
₦85,000 – ₦110,000 |
Training often followed by quick confirmation |
|
Stanbic IBTC Bank |
₦180,000 – ₦210,000 |
Excellent benefits and professional environment |
|
Union Bank |
₦120,000 – ₦150,000 |
Growing digital focus; structured onboarding |
|
Wema Bank |
₦70,000 – ₦100,000 |
Lower pay but decent work culture |
|
Polaris Bank |
₦70,000 – ₦95,000 |
Allows upward mobility post-confirmation |
|
Keystone Bank |
₦60,000 – ₦90,000 |
Pay improves significantly after confirmation |
|
Sterling Bank |
₦100,000 – ₦120,000 |
Focus on innovation; youthful work environment |
|
Ecobank Nigeria |
₦100,000 – ₦130,000 |
Regional presence across Africa; career mobility |
|
FCMB (First City Monument Bank) |
₦100,000 – ₦120,000 |
Often includes lunch and transport stipends |
Summary: Best Paying Banks for Graduate Trainees
If you’re strictly chasing the bag, then GTCO, Access Bank, and Stanbic IBTC top the list. They offer the highest monthly pay during trainee periods and usually have faster paths to confirmation.
But don’t ignore banks like First Bank and Zenith—they provide long-term stability and great training platforms that can launch your finance career big-time.
Common Perks & Allowances During Graduate Training
- Transport Allowance: Especially if your training center is in a major city.
- Free Accommodation: Some banks house you during the training period.
- Lunch or Meal Stipends: A few banks take care of feeding or provide canteen services.
- Medical Cover: Some give basic health insurance even as a trainee.
- Bonus After Training: If you finish strong, some banks give a bonus or immediate salary increase.
Pro Tips for Getting into Banking as a Trainee
- Apply Early – Bank recruitment is competitive. Keep an eye on their career portals.
- Ace the Aptitude Test – Most banks have a tough online test. Practice makes perfect.
- Polish Your CV & LinkedIn – Banking is formal. Keep your CV clean and professional.
- Dress the Part – First impressions count. Clean suit, good shoes, confident smile.
- Network Smartly – Know someone who works at the bank? Ask them for insight or referrals.
Final Thoughts
Banking is still one of the most prestigious and stable careers in Nigeria. As a graduate trainee, you might not be earning millions (yet), but if you play your cards right, the path to big titles and bigger money is open.
Start where you can, learn fast, and grow smart. No salary is small when you have potential!
Already started your trainee program or applying soon? Drop your questions or experiences in the comments! Let’s gist.
