N2.5M Monthly Salary for Professors: A National Debate on Nigeria’s Academic Pay Gap
The call for a ₦2.5 million monthly salary for Nigerian professors has sparked intense debate across academic and political circles. While some view it as excessive, many argue that it is long overdue, given the current economic realities and the critical role professors play in shaping Nigeria’s future.
The Salary Disparity: Nigeria vs Abroad
In a recent column on Daily Trust, Suleiman A. Suleiman shared a striking comparison between his past earnings abroad and what Nigerian professors receive today:
- As a PhD student in the UK in 2013, he earned around £1,143 per month (~₦112,000 at the time). Adjusted to today’s exchange rate, that would be worth about ₦2.35 million.
- By contrast, a Nigerian professor today still earns between ₦500,000 and ₦600,000 monthly, despite inflation and currency devaluation.
- Even as an associate lecturer in the UK, his combined pay would have translated to over ₦4.5 million monthly, far above Nigerian academic earnings.
Suleiman describes the situation as a “national disgrace”, reflecting how poorly Nigeria values its intellectual workforce.
What Nigerian Professors Actually Earn
Despite rising living costs, Nigerian professors continue to earn meager salaries:
- Under the CONUASS structure, monthly take-home pay ranges from ₦525,000 to ₦633,000.
- Even after a 35% raise in 2024, salaries remain stagnant compared to global standards.
- Committees like that of Professor Nimi Briggs recommended ₦2 million per month, still below the ₦2.5 million demand.
- Some university leaders argue that at least ₦1 million monthly is necessary just to meet today’s economic realities.
Why the ₦2.5 Million Salary Matters
- Curbing Brain Drain – Many Nigerian academics leave the country for better opportunities abroad due to poor pay.
- Maintaining Academic Standards – Professors handle teaching, research, and supervision. Underpayment threatens the quality of education.
- National Priorities – While politicians enjoy massive salaries and allowances, intellectuals shaping Nigeria’s future are underpaid.
For instance, reports show that what senators earn could fund thousands of professors’ annual salaries, raising questions about national priorities.
Conclusion
The debate over professors’ salaries is not just about numbers—it’s about fairness, dignity, and the future of education in Nigeria. Whether it is ₦2 million or ₦2.5 million per month, one thing is clear: Nigerian professors deserve better compensation for the critical role they play in building the nation. 