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Ikiodiete George
- 2 Min Read
Professor Salary & Grade Levels + Allowance Structure In Nigeria: Official Figures (2025)
In 2025, the salary and allowance structure for professors in Nigeria remains one of the highest in the public education system, governed by the CONUASS salary structure (Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure). Professors are respected as the highest-ranking academic officers in Nigerian universities, and their earnings reflect this status.
This post explains the official professor salary, grade levels, and allowance structure in Nigeria as of 2025.
Who Is a Professor in Nigeria?
A professor is the highest academic rank in Nigerian universities. To attain this status, one must:
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Hold a PhD
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Have at least 8–10 years of post-PhD academic experience
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Publish significant scholarly work
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Hold previous positions like Senior Lecturer or Associate Professor
Official Salary Grade Levels for Professors in Nigeria (2025)
Professors are placed on CONUASS 7, which is the highest level on the academic salary structure.
CONUASS Salary Table for Professors (2025)
| Grade Level (CONUASS) | Position | Monthly Salary Range (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| CONUASS 5 | Senior Lecturer | ₦422,000 – ₦534,000 |
| CONUASS 6 | Associate Professor | ₦573,000 – ₦716,000 |
| CONUASS 7 | Full Professor | ₦753,000 – ₦1,005,000 |
The salary may vary depending on:
Years of experience
Step level (Step 1 to Step 9)
University type (Federal, State, or Private)
Allowances for Professors in Nigeria (2025)
Professors are entitled to numerous allowances in addition to their basic salary.
Common Allowances Include:
| Allowance Type | Estimated Monthly Value (₦) |
|---|---|
| Research Allowance | ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 |
| Housing Allowance | ₦80,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Transport Allowance | ₦20,000 – ₦50,000 |
| Responsibility Allowance | ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 |
| Teaching/Marking Allowance | ₦20,000 – ₦40,000 |
| Excess Workload Allowance | ₦30,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Sabbatical Leave Bonus | Up to ₦1,000,000 (annually) |
Professors who serve as Deans, HODs, or Vice Chancellors receive even more benefits and official perks.
Do Professors in Private Universities Earn More?
Yes, in some cases. Professors in well-funded private universities like Covenant, AUN, or Baze can earn:
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₦1.5 million to ₦3 million/month (including benefits)
However, they may not get the same job security and pension benefits offered in public institutions.
Career Path to Becoming a Professor in Nigeria
| Rank | Grade Level (CONUASS) |
|---|---|
| Assistant Lecturer | CONUASS 1 |
| Lecturer II | CONUASS 2 |
| Lecturer I | CONUASS 3 |
| Senior Lecturer | CONUASS 4/5 |
| Associate Professor | CONUASS 6 |
| Professor (Full Rank) | CONUASS 7 |
On average, it takes 12–18 years to rise from Lecturer II to full Professor.
Benefits & Perks for Professors
Beyond salary, professors also enjoy:
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Sabbatical leave (1 year every 6 years)
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Conference sponsorships
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Vehicle loans or official cars
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Priority in government research grants
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Pension and retirement benefits
FAQs
1. How much does a federal university professor earn monthly in 2025?
A full professor in a federal university earns between ₦753,000 and ₦1,005,000/month, excluding allowances.
2. Is there a difference in pay between state and federal university professors?
Yes. Federal university professors typically earn more, and enjoy better allowances and job security.
3. Do professors pay taxes in Nigeria?
Yes. Salaries are taxed under the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) system by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
Summary: Professor Salary in Nigeria (2025)
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Grade Level: CONUASS 7
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Monthly Salary: ₦753,000 – ₦1,005,000 (excluding allowances)
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Total Monthly Pay with Allowances: Up to ₦1.5 million+
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Private University Pay: ₦1.5M – ₦3M/month (in elite schools)
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Additional Perks: Sabbaticals, research funding, housing benefits
Final Thought
Being a professor in Nigeria is not just prestigious—it also offers one of the highest-paid public sector roles, especially in federal universities. While the journey is long, the financial reward, academic influence, and professional respectmake it worth it.
