Sg Judiciary Salary Scale, Grade Levels & Allowances For Staff In Nigeria (2025): Official Breakdown

Let’s be honest—there’s always been curiosity around how much people working in the Nigerian judiciary, especially at the state level, actually earn. Whether you're eyeing a job in the system or just want to understand what goes into their pay package, this guide has you covered.

In 2025, the State Government (SG) Judiciary Salary Structure follows a blend of the regular civil service system (CONPSS) and a separate pay structure for judicial officers like judges and magistrates. Let’s break everything down in a way that’s easy to understand.

Who Works Under the SG Judiciary?

The state judiciary includes a variety of roles such as:

• High Court Judges
• Magistrates and Customary Court Judges
• Court Registrars and Clerical Officers
• Bailiffs, Messengers, and Support Staff
• Chief Judge and Director of Administration

Some follow the standard civil service salary structure, while others, like judges and magistrates, have their own special judicial pay scale.

1. Civil Service (CONPSS) Salary for Support Staff

Support staff such as court clerks, registrars, legal officers, bailiffs, and administrative assistants fall under the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS).

Monthly Salary Estimate for Support Staff

Note: These are estimates and vary slightly based on the state and step within each grade level.

2. Judicial Salary for Magistrates and Judges

Judicial officers don’t use the same pay scale as support staff. Their salaries are structured based on seniority and position in the court system.

Here’s a rough idea of how much they earn monthly:

The wide difference between basic salary and total pay comes from the generous allowances attached to judicial roles.

Allowances and Bonuses for Judiciary Staff

Judiciary staff, especially judges, enjoy a range of benefits that go far beyond just their monthly salaries. These allowances are paid either monthly or periodically and significantly boost total compensation.

Regular Monthly Allowances

• Housing/Rent Allowance
• Utility Allowance
• Domestic Staff Allowance
• Transport Allowance
• Meal Subsidy
• Entertainment Allowance (for senior officers)

Other Benefits

• Furniture Allowance (Paid every 4 years)
• Car Loan or Official Vehicle
• Leave Bonus (once yearly)
• Gratuity upon retirement
• Severance package
• Duty Tour Allowance (local & foreign travel)

These perks make the judiciary one of the most rewarding arms of government to work in—especially at senior levels.

Summary: Total Compensation in the State Judiciary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do all states pay judiciary workers the same?
No, salaries can vary depending on the state’s financial strength and internal policies. Some states pay more than others.

Q: Are judiciary staff promoted like civil servants?
Yes. Support staff move up by promotion or by yearly step increments. Judicial officers are appointed and elevated based on recommendations.

Q: Do judges really earn millions monthly?
Yes, especially when you include housing, domestic, transport, furniture, and travel allowances.

Q: Is furniture allowance part of salary?
No, it’s a separate allowance paid once in four years—usually running into millions.

Q: Are these salaries taxed?
Yes. Basic salary is taxable, though some allowances may be tax-free or partially exempt.

Final Thoughts

The State Government judiciary in Nigeria offers solid and reliable compensation, especially for senior roles. While the support staff follow the standard CONPSS structure, judges and magistrates have their own pay scale, making their total earnings significantly higher due to allowances and other benefits.

So, if you’re eyeing a career in the judiciary, know this:

• Support staff can earn ₦170k–₦1.2M+ per month
• Judicial officers can take home ₦600k – ₦5M+ monthly

In 2025, working in the SG Judiciary remains one of the most prestigious and well-paid paths in the Nigerian public sector.