Nurses are essential to Nigeria’s healthcare system, providing patient care, supporting doctors, administering prescribed treatments and helping patients recover from illnesses. For people considering a nursing career, one of the most important questions is how much nurses earn in Nigeria, particularly in federal government hospitals.
In 2026, the salaries of nurses employed by the Federal Government are generally determined by the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), alongside their qualifications, grade level, salary step, years of service and applicable allowances.
Based on published CONHESS figures, entry-level registered nurses may earn approximately ₦119,959 to ₦211,125 monthly in basic salary, depending on their entry grade and salary step. More experienced nurses, specialists and senior nursing administrators may earn substantially more as they progress through the salary structure.
These figures should be treated as estimates rather than guaranteed take-home pay. The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) published a CONHESS implementation circular in September 2024, and the figures used in this guide are based on that structure. Individual salaries may differ according to appointment terms, qualifications, step placement and applicable adjustments.
This guide explains the estimated federal government nurse salary structure in Nigeria for 2026, monthly pay by grade level, the effect of qualifications and experience, allowances, and factors that determine how much a nurse receives.
How Much Is a Nurse’s Salary in Nigeria in 2026?
Nurses working in federal government hospitals are generally paid under CONHESS, the consolidated salary structure used for many healthcare professionals other than medical doctors and dentists.
The amount a nurse earns depends on the grade level and step assigned to the position. A newly employed registered nurse may earn less than a senior nursing officer or a nurse occupying a management position.
The following figures provide a general estimate of monthly basic salary based on the published CONHESS structure.
| Nursing career level | Estimated monthly basic salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level registered nurse, diploma or certificate route | ₦119,959–₦160,918 |
| Entry-level registered nurse, BSc Nursing route | ₦155,990–₦211,125 |
| Mid-level nursing officer, depending on grade | ₦174,566–₦239,422 |
| Senior nursing officer or experienced nurse | ₦199,076–₦275,129 |
| Specialist or principal nursing officer | ₦228,813–₦376,644 |
| Senior nursing leadership, including Chief Nursing Officer-level positions | ₦264,310–₦376,644 |
| Assistant director to Director of Nursing Services-level positions | ₦360,706–₦678,842 |
Source basis: published CONHESS salary figures effective from July 29, 2024, as summarised in a 2026 salary guide. These are monthly basic salary estimates before allowances and deductions. The precise grade assigned to a nurse depends on the appointment and applicable service rules.
What Is CONHESS?
CONHESS means Consolidated Health Salary Structure. It is a salary framework used for eligible healthcare workers in Nigeria’s public service.
The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission publishes information about government salary structures and adjustments, including CONHESS. Its official website provides the relevant salary-structure documents and circulars.
Official reference: https://nsiwc.gov.ng/information-center/salary-structures/
For nurses, the salary received is influenced by the grade level and step attached to the position. Two nurses working in the same hospital may therefore receive different salaries because they have different qualifications, seniority, responsibilities or employment terms.
It is also important to distinguish basic salary from gross salary and net salary. Basic salary is the core pay before allowances and deductions. Gross salary includes applicable allowances, while net or take-home salary is the amount remaining after relevant deductions.
Estimated Federal Government Nurse Salary by CONHESS Grade
The table below summarises selected salary ranges associated with nursing career levels under the published CONHESS structure. The nursing titles are indicative career groupings, not a guarantee that every institution assigns the same title to a particular grade.
| CONHESS grade | Indicative nursing career level | Estimated monthly basic salary |
|---|---|---|
| CONHESS 6 | Entry-level registered nurse on a diploma or certificate route | ₦119,959–₦160,918 |
| CONHESS 7 | Entry-level BSc nurse or an eligible officer appointed at this grade | ₦155,990–₦211,125 |
| CONHESS 8 | Mid-level officer | ₦174,566–₦239,422 |
| CONHESS 9 | Senior officer, depending on appointment | Varies by step and appointment |
| CONHESS 10 | Experienced or specialist officer | Varies by step and appointment |
| CONHESS 11–12 | Senior nursing officer or nursing leadership | Approximately ₦264,310–₦376,644 across the cited career grouping |
| CONHESS 13–15 | Senior management and director-level nursing positions | Approximately ₦360,706–₦678,842 across the cited career grouping |
The ranges above combine grade-specific figures and selected nursing career groupings from published salary guidance. They should not be read as an official appointment chart assigning every nursing title to a particular CONHESS grade.
For an exact salary, a nurse should confirm the grade, step and applicable allowances stated in the appointment letter or payroll records.
Federal Government Nurse Salary for Fresh Graduates
The salary of a newly qualified nurse depends partly on the qualification held and the grade at which the employing institution appoints the candidate.
Registered Nurses With a Diploma or Certificate
Published CONHESS-based estimates place some entry-level registered nurses on the diploma or certificate route at CONHESS 6.
The estimated monthly basic salary range for this grade is approximately ₦119,959 to ₦160,918.
The actual amount depends on the salary step and the appointment terms. Candidates should also confirm whether any internship, registration or other employment requirements affect their appointment.
Registered Nurses With a BSc in Nursing
Some entry-level nurses with a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree may be appointed at CONHESS 7, subject to the relevant recruitment and service rules.
Published estimates put the monthly basic salary range for this grade at approximately ₦155,990 to ₦211,125.
A degree does not automatically guarantee appointment at a particular grade in every federal institution. The advertised position, approved entry qualification and terms of employment determine the grade.
Does NYSC or Professional Registration Affect Nurse Salary?
The salary a candidate receives depends on the eligibility requirements and appointment conditions for the advertised role. Professional registration, recognised qualifications and any required internship or other training can affect whether a candidate qualifies for a position.
Candidates should confirm the specific requirements in the recruitment notice and appointment letter. They should not assume that every newly graduated nurse begins earning the same amount immediately after completing school.
Nurse Salary by Experience and Seniority
Nursing salaries can increase as employees gain experience, qualify for promotion and move into positions with greater responsibility.
However, years of service alone do not automatically determine a particular salary. Promotion, approved qualifications, vacancies, performance and the applicable service rules may also influence progression.
Mid-Level Nurses
Mid-level nurses may occupy roles involving more independent patient care, supervision of junior staff or responsibility for a unit.
Published salary estimates for the CONHESS 7–8 range are approximately ₦155,990 to ₦239,422 per month in basic salary.
Senior Nurses
Senior nursing officers may have substantial clinical experience or additional administrative responsibilities. Their salaries depend on the grade and step of their appointments.
A broad estimate for selected senior nursing career levels is approximately ₦199,076 to ₦275,129 monthly in basic salary.
Specialist Nurses
Nurses who have received recognised specialist training may work in areas such as critical care, theatre nursing, emergency care, paediatrics, oncology or dialysis.
Specialist training can improve career opportunities, but it does not automatically guarantee a particular salary. The employer’s grading rules, position and available specialist posts remain important.
Published estimates for selected specialist or principal nursing officer career levels range from approximately ₦228,813 to ₦376,644 monthly in basic salary.
Chief Nursing Officer and Director-Level Positions
Senior nursing leaders may supervise nursing teams, manage clinical services, coordinate staff deployment and contribute to healthcare administration.
The salary of a Chief Nursing Officer or Director of Nursing Services depends on the specific position and grade approved by the employing institution.
The broad estimates presented in this guide are intended to show the potential difference between entry-level and senior nursing roles, not to promise a fixed salary for a particular job title.
Federal Government Nurse Allowances in 2026
In addition to basic salary, eligible nurses may receive allowances based on their role, work schedule, duties and applicable government rules.
One confirmed change for 2026 concerns the uniform allowance for nurses employed in federal hospitals, medical centres and clinics in ministries, departments and agencies.
According to a report by Punch Healthwise published on February 7, 2026, the NSIWC approved an increase in the annual uniform allowance from ₦20,000 to ₦80,000, effective January 1, 2026. The revised allowance is to be paid through the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS). https://healthwise.punchng.com/fg-raises-nurses-uniform-allowance-to-n80000/
This is a separate allowance and should not be confused with monthly basic salary.
Other allowances may apply depending on the nurse’s position and employment conditions.
| Allowance | What it may cover |
|---|---|
| Uniform allowance | Support for work uniforms, subject to the applicable policy |
| Shift duty allowance | Eligible work performed under approved shift arrangements |
| Call duty allowance | Approved on-call duties for eligible roles |
| Hazard-related allowance | Applicable duties and conditions under the relevant rules |
| Rural or location-related allowance | Eligible postings where the allowance is approved |
| Other role-specific allowances | Particular clinical, specialist or administrative responsibilities |
Not every nurse receives every allowance. The applicable rates, eligibility conditions and payment arrangements should be verified through the employer’s human resources department or official circulars.
Is the ₦80,000 Uniform Allowance Paid Monthly?
No. The reported uniform allowance for nurses in eligible federal government facilities is ₦80,000 per year, not ₦80,000 per month.
Dividing that amount by 12 gives an equivalent of about ₦6,667 per month for comparison purposes, but this does not mean the allowance is necessarily paid monthly. The payment follows the applicable government payroll arrangements.
The allowance is also separate from basic salary, shift duty allowance and other eligible payments.
What Determines a Nurse’s Salary in a Federal Hospital?
Several factors affect the salary a nurse receives in a federal healthcare institution.
1. Qualification
The qualification accepted for the appointment can influence the entry grade. A candidate applying with a diploma may be appointed differently from a candidate recruited into a position requiring a bachelor’s degree.
2. Grade Level and Step
CONHESS grade and step are important determinants of basic pay. Employees on the same grade may receive different amounts because they are placed on different steps.
3. Years of Service and Promotion
Experience may support progression through salary steps or promotion to higher positions. However, advancement depends on the relevant employment rules and promotion process.
4. Area of Specialisation
Specialist training may make a nurse eligible for roles with additional responsibilities. The salary attached to the role, rather than the specialisation alone, determines the applicable pay.
5. Employer and Appointment Terms
The federal government, state governments, private hospitals, teaching hospitals and other healthcare organisations may use different employment arrangements. A salary figure from one employer should not automatically be applied to another.
6. Allowances and Deductions
Allowances can increase gross earnings, while statutory and other authorised deductions can reduce take-home pay. The net amount received may therefore differ from the basic salary quoted in a salary table.
How Much Does a Nurse Earn in a Federal Teaching Hospital?
Nurses employed by federal teaching hospitals generally fall under the applicable public-service health salary arrangements, subject to the institution’s approved employment terms.
Their earnings depend on grade level, step, qualification, job title and applicable allowances.
A newly employed nurse may receive a different amount from an experienced nurse who occupies a senior clinical or management position. Some employees may also qualify for shift, call duty or other role-specific allowances.
For an accurate figure, candidates should check the recruitment advert or ask the hospital’s human resources department for the approved grade and salary details for the position.
Federal Government Nurse Salary Compared With Private Hospitals
Nurses in private hospitals do not necessarily receive the same salary as nurses employed by the Federal Government. Private employers may use their own salary bands and benefit packages.
Pay may vary according to the hospital’s size, location, financial resources, staffing needs and the nurse’s experience or specialist skills.
Some private facilities may offer competitive salaries, while others may pay less than the published public-service rates. There is no single private-sector salary that applies to all nurses in Nigeria.
When comparing job offers, look beyond the monthly figure. Consider working hours, shift arrangements, pension contributions, health insurance, training opportunities, leave, transport costs and other benefits.
How to Confirm Your Exact Federal Government Nurse Salary
If you are already employed or have received a federal nursing appointment, the following steps can help you verify your pay.
- Check your appointment letter for the approved designation, grade level and step.
- Review your payslip to identify basic salary, allowances and deductions.
- Ask your human resources department which CONHESS circular applies to your appointment.
- Confirm whether any approved salary adjustment or allowance applies to your position.
- If you believe your salary is incorrect, request clarification through your institution’s official payroll or administrative process.
You can also consult the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission’s official website for published salary structures and relevant circulars: https://nsiwc.gov.ng/.
Do not rely only on a salary estimate from social media or a third-party website when determining your exact entitlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a nurse earn monthly in Nigeria in 2026?
The amount depends on the employer, qualification, grade, step and allowances. Published CONHESS-based estimates put some entry-level registered nurses at approximately ₦119,959 to ₦211,125 per month in basic salary, while senior and director-level nursing positions may earn more.
What is the salary of a fresh graduate nurse in a federal hospital?
A fresh graduate’s salary depends on the role and grade at which the hospital appoints them. Published estimates place some diploma or certificate-route entry appointments at CONHESS 6 and some BSc Nursing appointments at CONHESS 7. The actual amount must be confirmed with the employer.
What is the salary of a BSc nurse in Nigeria?
There is no single salary for every BSc-qualified nurse. Some eligible entry-level appointments may fall under CONHESS 7, for which published monthly basic salary estimates range from approximately ₦155,990 to ₦211,125, depending on the step.
How much is the uniform allowance for federal nurses in 2026?
The reported annual uniform allowance for eligible nurses in federal hospitals, medical centres and clinics increased to ₦80,000 from January 1, 2026. It is a yearly allowance, not a monthly salary increase.
Do nurses receive hazard and shift allowances?
Some nurses may qualify for shift duty, call duty, hazard-related or other allowances, depending on their position and the rules applicable to their employer. Eligibility and rates should be confirmed through official employment documents.
Do nurses earn more after promotion?
Promotion to a higher grade may increase basic salary and can affect eligibility for certain responsibilities or allowances. The outcome depends on the approved grade, step and conditions of service.
Is CONHESS the same as CONMESS?
No. CONHESS is the Consolidated Health Salary Structure used for eligible health professionals, including nurses. CONMESS is the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure associated with medical and dental officers.
Where can I find the official nurse salary structure?
The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission publishes government salary-structure documents and related circulars on its official website at https://nsiwc.gov.ng/information-center/salary-structures/.
Conclusion
The estimated federal government nurse salary structure in Nigeria for 2026 depends on the nurse’s qualification, CONHESS grade, salary step, experience and applicable allowances.
Published figures based on the CONHESS structure place some entry-level registered nurses at approximately ₦119,959 to ₦211,125 monthly in basic salary, while senior nursing and director-level career groupings can reach substantially higher amounts.
The Federal Government has also approved an increase in the annual uniform allowance for eligible nurses in federal facilities to ₦80,000, effective January 1, 2026. This allowance is separate from basic salary and does not mean every nurse receives the same total pay.
For an exact salary, confirm the grade and step stated in the appointment letter and check the applicable CONHESS circular with the employer. These details are more reliable than a general estimate when determining an individual nurse’s actual earnings.
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