Understanding the Lowest Salary in Nigeria
What Counts as the Lowest Salary?
The lowest salary in Nigeria refers to the smallest amount a worker earns in a month. This can be below the national minimum wage, especially in private companies and informal jobs.
National Minimum Wage and Reality
The official minimum wage in Nigeria is meant to be the lowest legal salary. However, many employers—especially small businesses—still pay far less.
This means the actual lowest paid salary is often different from the official minimum wage.
The Official Minimum Wage in Nigeria
Current National Minimum Wage
As of 2025/2026, the minimum wage for Nigerian workers is ₦30,000 per month, although a review is ongoing to increase it.
Why Many Workers Earn Below Minimum Wage
There are several reasons:
- Weak salary enforcement by government
- High unemployment
- Businesses struggling with high operating costs
- Informal sector not regulated
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- What Is the Average Basic Salary in Nigeria?
- Salary Structure of Federal Government Workers in Nigeria
The Real Lowest Salaries Earned by Workers
Lowest Salaries in the Informal Sector
Many workers in the informal sector earn very low monthly wages.
Common Examples
- Housemaids: ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 per month
- Small shop assistants: ₦15,000 – ₦25,000 per month
- Restaurant helpers: ₦20,000 – ₦30,000 per month
- Mechanic apprentices: ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 per month
- Local barbers/hairdressers: ₦15,000 – ₦25,000 per month
- POS: ₦20,000 – ₦25,000 per month
Lowest Salaries in Private Companies
Some private companies still pay below minimum wage, especially small businesses.
Examples
- Junior office staff: ₦20,000 – ₦35,000 per month
- Security guards: ₦20,000 – ₦35,000 per month
- Factory workers: ₦25,000 – ₦40,000 per month
- Customer attendants: ₦25,000 – ₦45,000 per month
Lowest Salaries in Different States of Nigeria
Why States Have Different Low Salaries
States with high cost of living pay slightly better, while smaller states offer lower salaries.
Common Ranges by Region
Northern Nigeria
₦10,000 – ₦25,000
Many informal jobs in the North pay some of the lowest wages in the country.
South-West Nigeria
₦20,000 – ₦40,000
Places like Lagos pay slightly higher, but many workers still earn below the minimum wage.
South-East Nigeria
₦20,000 – ₦35,000
Retail workers and assistants often earn low salaries.
South-South Nigeria
₦20,000 – ₦40,000
Petty jobs pay low, while oil-producing cities pay a little more.
Types of Jobs That Pay the Lowest Salaries
Unskilled Jobs
These jobs require no certificates or specialized training.
Examples
- Cleaners
- Domestic workers
- Loaders
- Street vendors
- Petrol attendants
Entry-Level Jobs in Small Businesses
These are jobs in shops, stores, and small companies that cannot afford high salaries.
Apprentice-Level Work
People learning a trade usually earn very little or nothing until they complete their training.
Why Nigeria Has Many Low-Paid Workers
High Unemployment
Because many people are searching for jobs, employers offer very low salaries.
High Population
Nigeria’s large population means more competition for available jobs.
Weak Labor Protection
Many small companies do not face penalties for paying below minimum wage.
Inflation and Cost of Living
Prices keep rising, but salaries remain low for many people.
Impact of Low Salaries on Workers
Struggle to Afford Basic Needs
Workers earning below minimum wage struggle with:
- Feeding
- Transport
- Rent
- Healthcare
High Debt Levels
Many low-paid workers borrow money often.
Low Job Satisfaction
Low wages affect morale and productivity.
How Workers Can Improve Their Earnings
Learning a Skill
Technical skills like hairstyling, baking, and tailoring can increase income.
Getting Certifications
IT, digital marketing, accounting, and logistics certificates boost salary chances.
Changing Location
Cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt pay higher wages.
Starting a Small Business
Side hustles help workers earn extra income.
Conclusion
The lowest paid salary in Nigeria can be as low as ₦10,000 per month, especially in informal jobs. Even though the official minimum wage is ₦30,000, the real situation shows many workers earning much less due to weak enforcement and high unemployment. Understanding the lowest salaries helps job seekers and workers know what to expect and plan for better opportunities.
FAQs
What is the lowest paid salary in Nigeria today?
The lowest salaries can be around ₦10,000–₦20,000 monthly, especially in informal jobs like housemaid work, shop assistant roles, and apprentice positions.
Do Nigerian companies follow the minimum wage law?
Many large companies follow it, but many small businesses and informal employers still pay below the official minimum wage.
Which jobs pay the least salary in Nigeria?
Jobs such as domestic work, cleaning, shop assistance, and apprenticeship roles usually pay the lowest wages.
Why do workers earn below minimum wage?
Weak enforcement, high unemployment, and the informal nature of many businesses are the main reasons.
How can low-paid workers increase their earnings?
They can learn new skills, get certifications, move to higher-paying states, or start small side businesses.
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