The oil and gas sector remains one of the most lucrative industries in Nigeria, offering not just prestige but also high-paying graduate trainee opportunities. In 2025, the demand for skilled professionals is rising, and many oil & gas companies are investing heavily in graduate training programs.
So, how much do these companies pay fresh graduates? This official guide provides a breakdown of the 2025 graduate trainee salaries for top oil and gas firms operating in Nigeria.
Who Is a Graduate Trainee in the Oil & Gas Industry?
A graduate trainee is a fresh graduate hired by a company to undergo structured, on-the-job training in areas such as engineering, operations, finance, HSE (Health, Safety & Environment), and supply chain. The training often lasts between 6 months to 1 year, after which trainees may be offered full-time roles.
Top Oil & Gas Companies in Nigeria
The Nigerian oil and gas industry includes multinational corporations (IOCs), indigenous companies, and government-owned institutions. Here are some of the key players:
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Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)
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Chevron Nigeria
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Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC)
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TotalEnergies
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ExxonMobil
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Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC)
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Seplat Petroleum
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Oando PLC
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Addax Petroleum
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NLNG (Nigeria LNG)
2025 Graduate Trainee Salary Table: Nigerian Oil & Gas Sector
Here’s an updated monthly salary table showing what graduate trainees earn in top oil & gas firms in Nigeria:
Note: These figures represent average estimates based on verified employee reports and insider industry data. Salaries may vary depending on job role, qualification, training location, and company policy.
Other Benefits for Oil & Gas Graduate Trainees
Aside from generous salaries, most oil and gas companies in Nigeria also provide:
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Medical insurance and health coverage
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Housing or housing allowance
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Transport allowance or company car
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Performance bonuses
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Meal allowances or cafeteria services
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Pension plans and life insurance
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Foreign training opportunities
These benefits make graduate programs in oil and gas some of the most attractive career starts in Nigeria.
How to Apply for Graduate Trainee Jobs in Oil & Gas
To land a role as a graduate trainee, candidates generally need:
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A minimum of a second-class upper degree (2:1) in Engineering, Geosciences, or related fields.
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To have completed NYSC.
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To pass aptitude tests, assessment centers, and interviews.
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Strong technical knowledge, teamwork, and communication skills.
Recruitment updates are typically published on:
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Company websites (e.g., shell.com.ng)
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Job boards like MyJobMag, Jobberman, and Hot Nigerian Jobs
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LinkedIn and other professional platforms
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which oil company pays the highest salary to graduate trainees in Nigeria?
In 2025, ExxonMobil and Chevron offer some of the highest salaries, paying up to ₦300,000 during training and up to ₦900,000 after.
2. How long does training last for oil and gas graduate trainees?
Typically 6 to 12 months, depending on the company and job role.
3. Is accommodation provided during training?
Many oil companies provide free or subsidized accommodation, especially during out-of-state training programs.
4. Do oil and gas companies retain graduate trainees?
Yes. Most companies absorb high-performing trainees into full-time positions after training.
5. Can non-engineering graduates apply?
Yes, roles in finance, IT, HSE, HR, and procurement are often open to graduates from non-engineering backgrounds.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Nigerian oil and gas sector remains one of the best-paying industries for graduate trainees. With salaries ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦300,000 during training and up to ₦900,000 post-training, the opportunities are financially rewarding and career-defining.
If you’re aspiring to break into the sector, now’s the time to prepare your CV, build your skills, and monitor job openings. The competition is stiff—but the rewards are worth it.
Stay tuned to our blog for updates on oil and gas job openings, recruitment tips, and career growth opportunities.
