The Nigerian oil and gas sector is renowned for offering some of the most attractive salary packages in the country. Entry-level employees—particularly fresh graduates—are drawn to this industry due to its high pay, extensive benefits, and career growth opportunities. As of 2025, major players in both upstream and downstream sectors continue to provide competitive compensation to attract top talent.
Top Oil and Gas Companies & Entry-Level Salary Breakdown (2025)
Below is a list of some of the highest-paying oil and gas companies in Nigeria along with their estimated entry-level salary and allowance structures for 2025:
|
Company |
Monthly Entry-Level Salary (₦) |
Annual Salary (₦) |
Allowances & Benefits |
|
Shell Nigeria |
₦600,000 – ₦750,000 |
₦7.2M – ₦9M |
Housing, Transport, Medical, Bonus, Pension |
|
Chevron Nigeria |
₦550,000 – ₦700,000 |
₦6.6M – ₦8.4M |
Housing, Insurance, Leave Bonus, Offshore Bonus |
|
ExxonMobil |
₦500,000 – ₦700,000 |
₦6M – ₦8.4M |
Health Coverage, Transport, Feeding, Pension |
|
TotalEnergies |
₦500,000 – ₦650,000 |
₦6M – ₦7.8M |
Medical, Utility Allowance, Accommodation, Bonus |
|
Agip (NAOC) |
₦450,000 – ₦600,000 |
₦5.4M – ₦7.2M |
Transport, Housing, Leave Grant, Insurance |
|
NLNG (Nigeria LNG) |
₦450,000 – ₦550,000 |
₦5.4M – ₦6.6M |
Bonus, Health Insurance, Housing, Performance Pay |
|
Addax Petroleum |
₦400,000 – ₦500,000 |
₦4.8M – ₦6M |
Allowances, Medical, Bonus, Paid Vacations |
|
Seplat Energy |
₦350,000 – ₦450,000 |
₦4.2M – ₦5.4M |
Fuel, Medical, HMO, Retirement Contributions |
|
Oando Plc |
₦300,000 – ₦400,000 |
₦3.6M – ₦4.8M |
Transport, Internet, Paid Leave, Insurance |
|
NNPC Limited |
₦250,000 – ₦400,000 |
₦3M – ₦4.8M |
Housing, Pension, Health Insurance, Training |
Note: Figures are estimated based on 2025 industry insights and may vary slightly by job role, location, and qualification.
Benefits Commonly Offered to Entry-Level Staff
- Medical Insurance (HMO)
- Accommodation or Housing Allowance
- Transportation and Fuel Allowance
- Performance and Annual Bonuses
- Paid Leave & Leave Grants
- Training and Career Development
- Pension Contributions
Oil and gas companies prioritize employee welfare, ensuring their staff are well-compensated and secure across all fronts.
FAQs
1. What qualifications are required for an entry-level job in the oil and gas industry?
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in engineering, geosciences, or related fields is required. Some roles also accept degrees in finance, IT, or management.
2. Are entry-level staff eligible for offshore bonuses?
Yes. Employees working offshore or in hazardous locations often receive additional compensation known as offshore or hazard allowances.
3. Do oil companies in Nigeria provide accommodation for staff?
Many offer housing allowances or company-owned apartments, especially for workers stationed in remote or operational areas.
4. Can non-engineering graduates work in oil companies?
Yes. Oil companies hire professionals in various fields including HR, Finance, IT, Logistics, and Administration.
5. What is the recruitment process like?
Most companies conduct aptitude tests, interviews, and technical assessments before final employment offers.
Conclusion
As of 2025, the oil and gas sector remains one of the most lucrative industries in Nigeria, especially for new graduates. With entry-level salaries ranging from ₦250,000 to ₦750,000 monthly, plus a wide range of allowances and bonuses, it's clear why so many Nigerians aspire to join the industry. Whether you're an engineering graduate or a business professional, opportunities abound for those who qualify.
