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Ikiodiete George
- 5 Min Read
Top 20 Highest Paying Banks In Nigeria For 2025: Microfinance & Commercial Giants You Need To Know
Hey there, my Naija fam! So you’re thinking about joining the banking hustle, or maybe you’re already in the game but dreaming of that sweet salary increase? Or perhaps you’re just curious about which banks are throwing the biggest paychecks in 2025? Well, you’re in the right place!
I’m about to drop the tea on the Top 20 Highest Paying Banks in Nigeria this year — covering the big commercial banks and the microfinance banks that are quietly dishing out competitive packages. Trust me, whether you want to work in a fancy glass building or prefer a bank that understands the small guy’s hustle, there’s something here for you.
What Makes a Bank “Highest Paying” in Nigeria?
Before I start naming and praising banks like your best friend’s new sneaker collection, let’s get one thing clear: the “highest paying” label here is based on a combination of salary, allowances, bonuses, and other benefits. Some banks pay you well at the entry level, while others might have juicy perks at the managerial level.
Also, remember that location, job role, and years of experience matter. But overall, this list gives you a solid idea of which banks are generous with your hard-earned time and effort.
Let’s Get to the Money: The Top 20 Highest Paying Banks in Nigeria for 2025
Here’s a quick overview table so you get the gist fast — after all, who doesn’t love a quick summary?
|
Rank |
Bank Name |
Entry-Level Salary Range (₦) |
Senior-Level Salary Range (₦) |
Why They’re Popular |
|
1 |
Access Bank |
100,000 – 400,000 |
1,000,000+ |
Large network & bonuses galore |
|
2 |
Zenith Bank |
120,000 – 500,000 |
1,200,000+ |
Competitive & career growth focus |
|
3 |
First Bank of Nigeria |
110,000 – 450,000 |
1,000,000+ |
Oldest & very stable |
|
4 |
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) |
120,000 – 550,000 |
1,200,000+ |
Great pay + dynamic culture |
|
5 |
United Bank for Africa |
110,000 – 500,000 |
1,100,000+ |
International opportunities |
|
6 |
Stanbic IBTC |
120,000 – 550,000 |
1,200,000+ |
Great career path & pay |
|
7 |
Fidelity Bank |
100,000 – 400,000 |
1,000,000+ |
Good bonuses & benefits |
|
8 |
FCMB |
90,000 – 350,000 |
900,000+ |
Supportive environment |
|
9 |
Sterling Bank |
80,000 – 300,000 |
800,000+ |
Focus on employee growth |
|
10 |
Unity Bank |
70,000 – 250,000 |
700,000+ |
Competitive but smaller |
|
11 |
Wema Bank |
60,000 – 200,000 |
600,000+ |
Developing bank with growing pay |
|
12 |
Sun Trust Bank |
50,000 – 150,000 |
500,000+ |
Career opportunities & good culture |
|
13 |
Providus Bank |
40,000 – 100,000 |
400,000+ |
Newer bank, growing fast |
|
14 |
Globus Bank |
30,000 – 80,000 |
300,000+ |
Small but growing |
|
15 |
Jaiz Bank |
20,000 – 60,000 |
200,000+ |
Islamic banking niche |
|
16 |
Citibank Nigeria |
150,000 – 500,000 |
1,500,000+ |
Multinational perks & prestige |
|
17 |
Standard Chartered Bank |
130,000 – 450,000 |
1,300,000+ |
Big international bank |
|
18 |
Ecobank Nigeria |
110,000 – 400,000 |
1,100,000+ |
Pan-African bank, solid packages |
|
19 |
Diamond Bank (Now Access) |
100,000 – 350,000 |
1,000,000+ |
Now part of Access Bank |
|
20 |
Polaris Bank (ex-Skye) |
90,000 – 300,000 |
900,000+ |
Growing bank with competitive pay |
Commercial Banks: The Big Players
Let’s start with the big boys — the commercial banks that have been around, making money moves and hiring young talent like crazy.
1. Access Bank
This bank is a household name. If you want a job with lots of benefits, good salary, and strong career development programs, Access Bank is where you want to be. Entry-level staff get a decent salary, and if you climb the ladder, the perks get sweeter.
2. Zenith Bank
Zenith is known for paying well and promoting people based on merit. Their work culture is dynamic and often attracts fresh graduates who want to learn and earn well at the same time.
3. First Bank of Nigeria
Being the oldest, First Bank offers stability, job security, and a solid pay package. They’ve been around the block and are respected across Nigeria.
4. Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB)
GTB is vibrant and pays well — especially for staff who show promise. Their salaries are above average, and they invest in training and career growth.
5. United Bank for Africa (UBA)
UBA has a pan-African presence and pays well. Their perks often include international exposure, which is a huge plus.
…and so on for the rest of the commercial banks on the list.
Microfinance Banks: The Quiet Giants
Microfinance banks might not have the flashy headquarters or mega adverts, but trust me — some of these guys pay well and provide an amazing working environment.
If you’re a go-getter who loves smaller teams and more hands-on experience, microfinance banks are great places to grow your career while earning well.
Banks like Mutual Trust Microfinance, LAPO Microfinance, and Fina Trust are known for paying their staff competitive salaries relative to the size of their operations.
How to Position Yourself for These Bank Jobs
So you’re thinking, “Okay, nice list, but how do I actually get a job and land that fat paycheck?” Glad you asked!
- Get certified: Professional banking certifications (like CIBN membership) boost your chances.
- Network: Connect with bank recruiters, attend career fairs, and use LinkedIn.
- Intern or volunteer: Experience counts. Some banks pay interns too!
- Stay updated: Follow banks’ social media pages for job openings.
- Prepare for aptitude tests: Many banks use computerized tests during recruitment.
Final Thoughts
Look, banking is still one of the best career paths in Nigeria if you want steady pay, benefits, and room for growth. The highest paying banks in 2025 are mixing the old with the new — commercial banks with their established reputations and microfinance banks bringing fresh energy and competitive pay.
Whether you’re dreaming of a job at Zenith Bank or considering a role at a microfinance bank like LAPO, what matters most is the hustle and your commitment to growth.
Remember, no bank will just hand you a million-naira salary on a platter — you have to bring your A-game, work smart, and show your worth.
