How much does a HSE Officer earn in Nigeria?

HSE Officers (Health, Safety, and Environment Officers) are responsible for ensuring workplace safety in line with Nigerian regulatory requirements. They design and enforce policies to protect employees, the public, and the environment from health and safety hazards. Typical tasks include conducting risk assessments, organizing safety trainings, performing safety audits, investigating incidents, and ensuring compliance with directives from regulatory bodies such as the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria. HSE Officers work across sectors including oil & gas, construction, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

The average salary for a hse officer 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): 130,000 - 210,000
• Mid-level (3-5 years): 220,000 - 340,000
• Senior-level (6+ years): 350,000 - 500,000

• Diploma/HND: Holders of a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Environmental Science, Engineering, or Occupational Health typically earn 150,000 - 250,000 monthly as entry-level HSE Officers.
• Bachelor's Degree: Candidates with a Bachelor's (BSc) in Safety Engineering, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fields can expect starting salaries between 180,000 - 280,000 monthly.
• Postgraduate Degree (MSc/Professional Diplomas): Professionals with a Master's degree or recognised postgraduate HSE qualifications (e.g. NEBOSH International Diploma, ISPON Certification) may earn 300,000 - 500,000 in senior or specialist roles.

Becoming an HSE Officer in Nigeria involves acquiring relevant education, industry experience, and accreditation from professional bodies. Employers look for candidates who demonstrate sound knowledge of Nigerian health and safety regulations as well as practical site experience.

1. Obtain a National Diploma, HND, or Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, or related fields from a recognised Nigerian institution (such as the University of Lagos, Federal University of Technology Minna, or Yaba College of Technology).
2. Complete mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme.
3. Undertake specialised HSE training courses, such as those provided by the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), Nigeria Institute of Safety Professionals (NISP), or obtain the NEBOSH International General Certificate.
4. Gain hands-on experience through internships, entry-level safety roles, or industrial attachments within sectors such as oil & gas, construction, or manufacturing.
5. Register as a member with professional bodies such as ISPON or NISP for ongoing career growth and recognition.
6. Continuously update skills by attending workshops, conferences, and pursuing advanced certifications relevant to HSE in Nigeria.

Most employers require candidates to have at least a National Diploma, HND, or Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or related fields. Nigerian universities and polytechnics such as University of Port Harcourt, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, and Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti offer relevant programmes. Additional professional short courses and certificates in Occupational Health and Safety further increase employability.

Highly regarded certifications for HSE Officers in Nigeria include the ISPON (Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria) Certificate, NISP (Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals) membership, NEBOSH International General Certificate, and IOSH Managing Safely. ISMN (Institute of Safety Management of Nigeria) also delivers recognised programmes. These certifications enhance marketability and validate expertise in health and safety management within Nigeria.

To attract recruiters on LinkedIn, Nigerian HSE Officers should maintain a detailed profile highlighting professional certifications (e.g., ISPON, NEBOSH), specify industries and sites worked at, and include quantifiable achievements (such as improved safety records or successful audits). Active participation in LinkedIn HSE groups or discussions relevant to Nigeria’s oil & gas, construction, or manufacturing sectors can showcase knowledge and help network with hiring managers.

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