Civil Engineering Salary in Nigeria

As Nigeria is one of those countries that has been going through rapid development over the years, the one career high in demand there is civil engineering. This is why many students lean towards it without a second thought.

Occupation:	Civil Engineering
Monthly Salary Range:	₦80000 – ₦600,000
Average Monthly Salary:	₦40300
Description:	A civil engineer is responsible for designing and constructing different infrastructure projects across the country.
Minimum Qualification:	The minimum level of qualification required to become a civil engineer is a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.

The average salary of a civil engineer in the country is ₦154,000. With time, the individual can get better-paying jobs with higher salary packages; in fact, they can also move to other countries if their company is operating there.

Overview of Civil Engineering Salary

Civil engineering is a promising and respected career in Nigeria. To work in this field, you need at least a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. Civil engineers must understand safety, quality standards, and best practices to ensure every project meets required specifications.

The salary of a civil engineer in Nigeria varies widely based on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level engineers may start with moderate salaries, while experienced professionals can earn significantly more.

Salary Structures

In civil engineering, the salary structure depends on the experience level of the individual. Those with little to no experience are at the bottom of the hierarchy, while those with many years of experience or specialized roles command higher salaries.

Rank | Salary per Month | Salary per Year
Entry-Level Civil Engineer | ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 | ₦960,000 – ₦1,800,000
Assistant Civil Engineer (1–4 years) | ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 | ₦1,800,000 – ₦3,600,000
Mid-Level Civil Engineer (5–9 years) | ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 | ₦3,600,000 – ₦6,000,000
Senior-Level Civil Engineer (10+ years) | ₦500,000 – ₦600,000+ | ₦6,000,000 – ₦7,200,000+
Specialized Roles / Project Managers | ₦600,000 – ₦1,000,000+ | ₦7,200,000 – ₦12,000,000+

These figures show how salaries grow with experience and responsibility. Entry-level engineers often earn between about ₦80,000 and ₦150,000 per month, while experienced and senior engineers can earn well above ₦500,000 per month — especially in oil, gas, and large construction firms.

Responsibilities of Civil Engineers

The primary responsibilities of civil engineers in Nigeria include designing effective construction plans that are safe and compliant with standards. They must monitor construction projects to ensure that work matches approved designs. Civil engineers also oversee project maintenance during and after completion.

In addition, ensuring that projects meet safety standards and are completed within the allocated budget is a crucial duty. Civil engineers often coordinate with architects, planners, and government agencies to make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle.

Which industry pays the highest salary to civil engineers in Nigeria?

The oil and gas industry offers some of the highest salaries for civil engineers in Nigeria. Engineers employed by major oil and gas firms and multinational construction companies typically earn more than those working solely in the general construction sector.

Does the location of the job affect the salary of the civil engineer in Nigeria?

Yes, job location significantly affects the salary of civil engineers in Nigeria. Those working in major urban centers such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt often receive higher salaries compared to their counterparts in rural areas. This difference reflects variations in the cost of living, project scale, and demand for professionals in these cities.

Is civil engineering a good career in Nigeria?

Yes, civil engineering is a promising career in Nigeria. As infrastructure development continues to grow, the demand for civil engineers increases in both the public and private sectors, making it a practical and rewarding career choice.

What are the factors that affect civil engineering salaries in Nigeria?

The major factors affecting civil engineering salaries in Nigeria include the level of qualification, years of experience, industry type, location, and the size of the employer or project. Higher qualifications, certifications, and specialized skills also lead to higher pay.

What are the best ways to increase my earning potential as a civil engineer in Nigeria?

To increase your earning potential, obtaining advanced degrees, professional certifications, and specialized skills can help. Additionally, working for larger firms in major industries and gaining experience on high-profile projects will enhance your earning prospects.

What is the lowest-paying civil engineering job in Nigeria?

The lowest-paying civil engineering jobs are entry-level positions in smaller companies or government agencies. These roles typically start around ₦80,000 per month, depending on the employer and location