How Nigerian Teachers Struggle on Less Than ₦30,000 Despite ₦70,000 Minimum Wage Approval

Many Nigerian teachers, especially those in private schools, have lamented earning far below the new ₦70,000 minimum wage, with some receiving as little as ₦15,000 monthly.

In July 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed into law a ₦70,000 national minimum wage, officially replacing the former ₦30,000 benchmark. While federal and some state workers have benefitted from the new structure, private school teachers say they remain excluded.

Investigations reveal that entry-level teachers in private schools typically earn between ₦25,000 and ₦60,000, while mid-level staff may earn up to ₦120,000. However, many continue to take home salaries well below the official threshold.

“I take home ₦30,000 every month, sometimes less,” said Blessing Uchechi, a teacher in Abuja. “This is not just below the minimum wage, it is discouraging when you consider the work we put into shaping the lives of children.”

Another teacher, Bidmus Adam from Lagos, shared similar frustrations. “My current salary is less than the minimum wage and does not motivate me. If I consider the stress and energy I expend daily, I should be earning far more. Passion alone cannot pay bills,” he lamented.

With the rising cost of food, transportation, and accommodation, many teachers have resorted to side businesses, including digital marketing, sales of clothing, and private tutoring, just to survive. Others, like Ummulkhulthum Daiyab Bature in Zaria, supplement their income by selling hijabs, shoes, and other items despite having over a decade of teaching experience.

Education experts warn that poor remuneration undermines Nigeria’s education system. “Most private schools were established primarily for profit, not to pay teachers their worth,” said Hassan Hamzat, a retired government teacher now serving as a private school principal.

Teachers also decry being barred from joining unions such as the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), leaving them without a collective voice to demand better pay and improved working conditions.

Despite their passion for the profession, many educators say the lack of fair compensation continues to dampen morale. “When you look at your pay, you won’t be motivated to give your best,” Uchechi admitted. “I had to switch my focus from money to the bigger picture, but the truth is teachers deserve better.”