Governor Salary in Nigeria

Everybody who has an interest in the politics of Nigeria will have their interest skyrocket when they find out about their earnings. Even the position of governor, which is very low on the ladder, earns a staggering amount of money per annum.

Occupation:	Governor
Monthly Salary Range:	₦185308 – ₦648,581
Average Monthly Salary:	₦92978
Description:	The governor is responsible for administrating state funds, ensuring the law is upheld in his state as well as appointing state officials such as commissioners.
Minimum Qualification:	Must have at least a School Certificate, which means secondary school has been completed.

On average, the basic salary of a governor in Nigeria is about ₦185,308 per month, but with allowances, the total monthly compensation that governors receive is significantly higher. The details are explored further below to give you the full picture of a governor’s earnings in Nigeria.

Overview of Governor Salary in Nigeria

To become a governor in Nigeria, a candidate must meet constitutional requirements including educational criteria and party sponsorship. The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) sets the official salary structure for political office holders, including governors.

The basic annual salary for a governor is ₦2,223,705, which equates to about ₦185,308 per month. This is the fixed basic pay they receive across all 36 states, regardless of the state’s size or revenue.

However, governors also receive additional allowances that are intended to cover the costs associated with their work and office. These allowances can significantly increase their total monthly take‑home pay.

Extras

In addition to the basic salary, Nigerian governors receive a variety of allowances and benefits. These include:

Hardship and Constituency Allowances: Regular allowances that boost monthly earnings. Hardship allowance is typically 50% of basic salary, and constituency allowance is around 100% of basic salary when calculated annually.

Leave Allowance: Usually around 10% of annual basic salary, paid once yearly or factored into compensation.

Vehicle and Maintenance Facilities: Governors are entitled to motor vehicle loans or allowances, which can be several times their basic annual salary.

Other Benefits: Governors receive accommodation, medical coverage, security detail, travel allowances, and staff support, all of which add significant value beyond the basic salary.

When these allowances are included, a governor’s total monthly compensation is often estimated to be around ₦648,580 or more, and with state-provided vehicles, security, and other perks, the effective monthly benefits can be considerably higher.

Responsibilities of a Governor

A governor in Nigeria has significant constitutional and administrative duties:

• Law Implementation: Ensure that state and federal laws are upheld within their states.
• Budget and Funds Oversight: Oversee the state budget, manage public funds, and guide economic policy.
• Appointments: Appoint commissioners, advisers, and supervisory officials to help administer the state government.
• Policy Leadership: Promote economic development, manage civil services, sign bills into law, and represent the state at national forums.

What Is the Current Salary of a Governor in Nigeria?

The current basic monthly salary of a governor in Nigeria is approximately ₦185,308, excluding allowances.

What Other Benefits Do Governors Receive?

Governors receive several benefits beyond their basic salary, such as vehicle allowances, leave allowances, housing and accommodation, medical coverage, travel and duty tour allowances, security provisions, and discretionary benefits for official duties.

What Is the Role of the Governor in Nigeria?

The governor’s primary role is to implement state and federal laws, ensure effective governance, manage state resources, and appoint key officials. They also play leadership roles in development planning and coordinating executive functions across ministries and agencies in their state.

What Factors Does the RMAFC Consider When Setting a Governor’s Salary?

The RMAFC considers factors such as the cost of living, economic conditions, comparative salaries of other public office holders, and the responsibilities associated with the position.

How Often Is the Governor’s Salary Reviewed?

The governor’s salary is generally reviewed periodically (often every five years) by the RMAFC to accommodate economic changes and ensure compensation reflects current realities. Any proposed adjustment is subject to approval by relevant authorities before implementation.

What Do You Need to Be a Governor in Nigeria?

To become a governor in Nigeria, an individual must:

• Be a natural-born citizen of Nigeria.
• Be at least 35 years old.
• Be a member of a registered political party.
• Be sponsored by that party for nomination.
• Meet minimum educational requirements, typically a secondary school certificate or higher.