How much does a Doctor of Physiotherapy earn in Nigeria?

A Doctor of Physiotherapy in Nigeria is a specialized healthcare professional responsible for diagnosing and managing physical disabilities, injuries, pain, and movement disorders. They develop individualized treatment plans for patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury and work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and sports organizations throughout Nigeria.

The average salary for a doctor of physiotherapy in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.

• Entry Level (0-2 years): 180,000 - 260,000
• Mid Level (3-7 years): 300,000 - 430,000
• Senior Level (8+ years): 460,000 - 700,000

• Bachelor's Degree in Physiotherapy: Typically qualifies for physiotherapy officer roles in public hospitals, with average monthly earnings ranging from 170,000 to 270,000 NGN.
• Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) Degree: Highly competitive, opens advanced clinical and leadership roles with salaries from 300,000 to 700,000 NGN monthly.
• Master’s Degree (MSc, MPT) or Fellowships: Professionals with further specialization or international credentials can earn over 700,000 NGN in private and specialized healthcare institutions.

To become a Doctor of Physiotherapy in Nigeria, candidates must complete rigorous academic, clinical, and regulatory requirements. Below are the standard steps to embark on this career path.

1. Obtain at least five credits in relevant subjects (including English, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry) in WAEC/NECO examinations.
2. Enroll in and complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Physiotherapy (BPT) from a university accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB).
3. For higher practice levels (e.g., consulting physiotherapist), pursue a Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) degree or a relevant postgraduate qualification.
4. Complete a compulsory one-year internship in a recognized healthcare institution.
5. Fulfill the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) requirement.
6. Register with the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB) to obtain a practicing license.
7. Participate in continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, and advanced certifications.

Most universities in Nigeria (e.g., University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan) offer Bachelor of Physiotherapy programs. The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Nnamdi Azikiwe University have started offering Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) programs. Completion of both academic and clinical rotations is mandatory, with regulatory oversight by the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB).

To legally practice as a Doctor of Physiotherapy in Nigeria, it is mandatory to obtain a practicing license from the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB). The MRTB is the regulatory authority responsible for setting standards for physiotherapy education, accrediting courses, and renewing licenses annually. Additional certifications, such as membership in the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP) and relevant continuous professional development courses, positively impact career advancement.

For Doctors of Physiotherapy in Nigeria, a well-crafted LinkedIn profile should detail educational achievements (including NUC and MRTB-accredited programs), documented clinical experience, and membership in professional bodies like NSP. Listing research, volunteering, and CPD workshops attended enhances credibility. Recommendations from Nigerian hospital supervisors and highlighting skills in rehabilitation software and practices specific to the Nigerian healthcare environment will improve visibility to both local and international employers.

See how a doctor of physiotherapy's salary in Nigeria compares to other professions. This can help you understand your earning potential and career options.