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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Teachers’ Salary In Nigeria (2025): Highest Paying States You Should Know
Teaching in Nigeria can be both a calling and a hustle — especially when you consider the many roles teachers play in shaping the minds of tomorrow’s leaders. But let’s be honest, passion alone doesn’t pay bills. So the big question is: Which Nigerian states actually pay teachers well in 2025?
If you’re a teacher, aspiring educator, or a job seeker looking for where to secure a teaching job with better pay, this updated guide will walk you through the top states in Nigeria with the highest salaries for teachers in 2025.
Overview: What Determines Teacher Salary in Nigeria?
Before we dive into the juicy list, here’s what typically affects how much a teacher earns:
|
Factor |
Influence on Pay |
|
State government salary structure |
Each state sets its own rate within national guidance |
|
Education level taught |
Primary vs. secondary vs. tertiary |
|
Qualification |
NCE, B.Ed, M.Ed, PGDE, etc. |
|
Experience |
More years = higher pay grade |
|
Urban vs. Rural Deployment |
Urban centers usually offer better wages |
Top 10 Highest Paying States for Teachers in Nigeria (2025)
Below is a breakdown of Nigerian states that currently offer the best salaries to teachers — based on updated 2025 reviews and salary structures:
|
Rank |
State |
Average Monthly Salary (Public Schools) |
Highlights |
|
1️⃣ |
Lagos State |
₦95,000 – ₦220,000 |
Pays competitive salaries; excellent work structure |
|
2️⃣ |
Ogun State |
₦90,000 – ₦200,000 |
Strong education policies; high teacher retention |
|
3️⃣ |
Rivers State |
₦85,000 – ₦200,000 |
Oil-rich state with investment in public education |
|
4️⃣ |
Akwa Ibom |
₦80,000 – ₦180,000 |
Consistent teacher welfare payments |
|
5️⃣ |
Delta State |
₦80,000 – ₦170,000 |
Good infrastructure; prompt salary payment |
|
6️⃣ |
Edo State |
₦75,000 – ₦160,000 |
Reformed teacher recruitment & monitoring system |
|
7️⃣ |
FCT Abuja |
₦70,000 – ₦150,000 |
Access to training and education tech |
|
8️⃣ |
Kano State |
₦65,000 – ₦145,000 |
State-backed free education boosting hiring |
|
9️⃣ |
Enugu State |
₦60,000 – ₦140,000 |
Focus on basic education and staff welfare |
|
🔟 |
Kaduna State |
₦60,000 – ₦135,000 |
Recently updated teacher evaluation system |
Note: These are public sector salaries. Private school salaries may vary drastically — from as low as ₦30,000 to over ₦300,000 in premium international schools.
Teacher Salary by Education Level in 2025
|
Level Taught |
Average Salary Range (Monthly) |
|
Primary School |
₦50,000 – ₦120,000 |
|
Junior Secondary |
₦60,000 – ₦150,000 |
|
Senior Secondary |
₦70,000 – ₦200,000 |
|
Polytechnic Lecturers (CONPCASS) |
₦150,000 – ₦400,000 |
|
University Lecturers (CONUASS) |
₦180,000 – ₦600,000+ |
Additional Benefits Many States Offer Teachers
Aside from base salary, some states give extra incentives to attract and retain teachers. Here are some of the common allowances and bonuses:
|
Benefit |
Description |
|
Housing Allowance |
Paid monthly or yearly (urban areas mostly) |
|
Transport Allowance |
Especially for inter-LGA deployments |
|
Rural Posting Allowance |
Teachers posted to remote areas |
|
Leave Allowance |
10–15% of annual salary |
|
Training & Development |
Free workshops, digital upskilling programs |
|
Promotion Incentives |
Better pay grades and bonuses |
Why Lagos Tops the List
Lagos is Nigeria’s commercial nerve center and has some of the most organized education management systems in the country. Lagos State SUBEB and TESCOM maintain regular payment schedules and invest in teacher training.
Plus, Lagos offers:
- Regular salary upgrades
- Health insurance (for some cadres)
- Support for professional development
Real Talk: Why Some States Still Lag Behind
Unfortunately, some states still owe teachers salary arrears or pay below the national benchmark. States battling insecurity, poor internal revenue, or political instability often delay payments or fail to recruit qualified teachers.
If you're seeking employment, do your homework before applying — even if the location sounds appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which state is the best for teachers in Nigeria?
Lagos State leads with the highest salaries, consistent pay, and better working conditions.
2. Do teachers in Nigeria get paid monthly?
Yes, public school teachers are paid monthly. However, payment regularity can differ depending on the state.
3. How much do teachers in rural areas earn?
In some states, rural teachers may earn extra allowances (₦5,000–₦15,000/month), but base salaries remain the same.
4. Are private school salaries better than public?
Some elite private schools pay more, but the majority pay below public sector rates with fewer benefits.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Teach — Teach Smart!
If you're considering relocating or applying for a teaching job, think beyond just passion. Find a state that values your work — with timely payments, career growth opportunities, and proper work-life balance.
Nigeria may not be perfect, but in 2025, more states are stepping up to invest in their educators — and the best time to make that move might just be now!
