Ubec Official Salary Structure For Teachers In Nigeria (2025)

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is the federal agency responsible for coordinating basic education across Nigeria. While UBEC supports funding and policy development for the education sector, actual teacher employment and remuneration fall under the purview of State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs).

In this blog post, we will explore the official UBEC salary structure for teachers in Nigeria in 2025, examine the proposed federal salary scale, and highlight the current realities and variations across states.

Is There a Standard UBEC Salary Structure for Teachers?

Technically, UBEC does not pay teachers directly. Instead, it collaborates with state governments through SUBEBs. Salaries are usually determined by the individual state governments, resulting in variations in monthly take-home paydepending on the teacher’s location, qualifications, and grade level.

However, there are federal salary recommendations, especially for Education Officers employed at the national level, which may influence or guide state-level salary structures.

Federal Proposed Salary Structure for Education Officers (2025)

In response to long-standing concerns over poor remuneration, the Federal Government introduced a proposed salary structure for teachers and education officers. While this structure is yet to be fully adopted nationwide, it provides insight into expected earnings at various grade levels.

Here’s a breakdown:

These figures are gross monthly salaries and may include allowances depending on the role and location.

Realistic Monthly Salaries for UBEC-Supported Teachers

Despite the federal recommendations, actual monthly salaries for teachers vary significantly across Nigeria. Here's what recent data and teacher feedback reveal:

• Average National Salary for Basic Education Teachers: ₦60,000 – ₦65,000/month
• Some Entry-Level Teachers: As low as ₦34,000/month (especially in rural areas or states with financial constraints)
• Teachers in Federal Government Colleges or Special Programs: ₦100,000 and above

These figures highlight a disparity between policy and practice, largely driven by state funding capabilities and SUBEB autonomy.

State-Level Differences in Teacher Salaries

Each Nigerian state determines its teacher salary based on internal policies and budget allocations. Here are a few examples:

• Lagos State: Typically offers higher salaries and better working conditions due to better revenue generation. Basic education teachers may earn up to ₦90,000 – ₦120,000/month.
• Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Anambra States: Pay teachers between ₦60,000 and ₦90,000 depending on grade level and location.
• Northern States: In states with budget constraints, teachers may earn ₦40,000 – ₦60,000.

This inconsistency is one reason why many stakeholders continue to advocate for a unified national salary structure for basic education teachers.

Additional Benefits and Allowances

In addition to monthly salaries, teachers under UBEC or SUBEB may also enjoy the following allowances and incentives:

• Rural Posting Allowance
• Transport and Housing Allowance
• Promotion Bonuses
• Training and Capacity-Building Programs
• Pension and Gratuity (for permanent staff)

Some states also offer health insurance and professional development grants in collaboration with UBEC.

Challenges Affecting Teacher Salaries in Nigeria

1. Inconsistent Implementation of Federal Salary Guidelines
2. Budgetary Constraints at the State Level
3. Irregular Payment of Salaries in Some States
4. Lack of Proper Monitoring and Evaluation
5. Delayed Promotions and Arrears

FAQs About UBEC Teacher Salaries in Nigeria (2025)

1. Does UBEC pay teachers directly?

No. UBEC coordinates federal support for education but does not directly employ or pay teachers. That role lies with each state’s SUBEB.

2. What is the average salary for a UBEC teacher in 2025?

The average salary ranges from ₦60,000 to ₦65,000, but it varies significantly based on state and qualifications.

3. Is there a unified national salary structure for all teachers?

Not yet. While there are federal proposals, implementation is left to each state’s discretion.

4. Which states pay teachers the most in 2025?

States like Lagos, Rivers, and Abuja (FCT) tend to pay teachers higher wages compared to others.

5. Are there any reforms planned for teacher salaries in 2025?

Yes. The Federal Government continues to propose reforms aimed at improving teacher welfare, including salary increases and improved working conditions.

Conclusion

The UBEC salary structure for teachers in Nigeria remains a dynamic and evolving issue. While federal structures and proposals exist, the real determinant of teacher salaries is each state’s financial strength and policy direction. For teachers and education professionals, staying informed through SUBEB and federal updates is essential for career planning.

As calls for education reform and improved teacher welfare continue in 2025, it’s hoped that Nigeria will soon adopt a standardized, fair, and competitive salary structure for all teachers under UBEC and SUBEB.