When it comes to leadership in Nigeria, one of the most frequently asked questions by citizens is, “How much do our political leaders really earn?” From the president at the top of the executive branch to federal ministers and state governors, understanding the salary structure offers insight into the cost of governance and sparks public debate.
Let’s break down the official earnings of Nigeria’s top political officeholders—based on the latest available data from the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
President of Nigeria
Basic Monthly Salary: ₦292,892
Allowances: Hardship allowance (₦146,446), consistency allowance (₦732,230), and more
Total Monthly Take-home: ₦1,171,568
Annual Total (with perks): Over ₦14 million, excluding non-cash benefits like housing, security, and travel.
But the real figure, when perks, estacodes, vehicles, accommodations, and other entitlements are included, is estimated to be ₦50 million to ₦65 million annually.
Vice President of Nigeria
Basic Monthly Salary: ₦252,063
Allowances & Perks: Similar to those of the President, covering travel, entertainment, utilities, medicals, etc.
Total Monthly Income: Approximately ₦1 million
Annual Estimate: ₦12 million to ₦47 million (depending on benefits).
Federal Ministers
Basic Monthly Salary: ₦168,866
Total Monthly Package (with allowances): Between ₦650,000 and ₦1 million
Annual Earnings: Estimated at ₦30 million to ₦40 million, once estacodes, vehicles, accommodation, and staff costs are added.
Despite public perception, ministers do not earn outrageous base salaries, but their perks significantly raise their overall income.
State Governors
Basic Monthly Salary: ₦648,580
Total Monthly Earnings (including allowances): Between ₦5 million to ₦10 million, depending on the state
Annual Estimate: ₦60 million to ₦120 million+
State governors enjoy housing, security, travel, entertainment, fuel allowances, and generous estacodes when traveling abroad. They also receive massive severance and retirement packages, including mansions, vehicles, and lifetime salaries in some states.
Severance and Post-Service Benefits
Under the 2008 Remuneration Act:
Severance Pay: 300% of the annual basic salary
Some governors receive pensions for life, multiple official vehicles, and even foreign medical care paid for by the state.
| Position | Basic Monthly Salary | Est. Total Monthly | Est. Annual Income (incl. perks) |
| ————– | ——————– | —————— | ——————————– |
| President | ₦292,892 | ₦1.17 million | ₦50M – ₦65M |
| Vice President | ₦252,063 | ₦1 million | ₦12M – ₦47M |
| Minister | ₦168,866 | ₦800k – ₦1M | ₦30M – ₦40M |
| Governor | ₦648,580 | ₦5M – ₦10M | ₦60M – ₦120M+ |
Is This Too Much?
While the base salary figures may not appear extravagant, the bulk of what political leaders earn comes from allowances and perks—some of which are difficult to track or justify. This is where most Nigerians raise eyebrows.
Citizens have long called for a review of these allowances to cut down on the cost of governance, especially at a time when the average Nigerian is facing economic hardship.
Conclusion
The salaries of Nigeria’s political leaders are just one piece of the puzzle. It’s the perks, estacodes, and post-service benefits that make these positions highly attractive—and controversial. As the debate continues over whether these earnings are justified, one thing remains clear: Transparency and accountability are key to building public trust and ensuring that national resources are used responsibly.
