How much does a instrumentation electrician earn in Nigeria?

Instrumentation electricians specialise in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical and instrumentation systems used in industrial and commercial settings. In Nigeria, they are essential in sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, power generation, and water treatment facilities. Their duties include troubleshooting malfunctioning instruments, calibrating sensors, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and collaborating with engineers to optimise process controls.

The average salary for a instrumentation electrician 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): 70000 - 120000
• Mid Level (3-5 years): 130000 - 190000
• Senior Level (6+ years): 200000 - 300000

• Technical Certificate (e.g. NABTEB, Trade Test): Holders of trade test certificates or NABTEB typically earn between 70000 and 140000 monthly when starting out.
• National Diploma (ND) / Higher National Diploma (HND): A National Diploma or Higher National Diploma in Electrical Engineering or Instrumentation Technology often leads to higher starting salaries, within the range of 120000 to 200000 monthly.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Those with a B.Eng/B.Tech in Electrical or Instrumentation fields may access senior roles, with salaries upwards of 200000 monthly.

Starting a career as an instrumentation electrician in Nigeria involves a combination of technical education, practical experience, and obtaining the right certifications. The oil and gas and manufacturing sectors often require the highest standards of training and compliance.

1. Complete your secondary education with a strong focus on science subjects.
2. Enroll in a technical school or polytechnic and obtain a relevant qualification, such as a National Diploma in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Industrial Maintenance.
3. Undertake a recognised apprenticeship programme through a registered employer or technical college.
4. Pass the Trade Test administered by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
5. Pursue further certifications such as NABTEB (National Business and Technical Examinations Board) or Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) technician registration.
6. Gain hands-on experience working on industrial sites, preferably in oil and gas, manufacturing, or utilities.
7. Stay updated on current instrumentation standards and safety regulations through workshops or short courses.

Most Nigerian employers require at least a National Diploma (ND) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Instrumentation, or Industrial Maintenance from recognised polytechnics such as Yaba College of Technology, Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, or Kaduna Polytechnic. Alternatively, a Trade Test certificate (Grade I – III) plus practical apprenticeship from an accredited technical institution is acceptable. Higher qualifications enhance career progression.

Key certifications include the Trade Test Certificate (Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment), NABTEB (National Business and Technical Examinations Board) Diploma, and registration as a technician with COREN (Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria). For work in the oil and gas sector, international safety certifications such as HSE (Health, Safety & Environment) from providers like the Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals (NISP) are advantageous.

Optimise your LinkedIn profile by listing your technical competencies—such as PLC troubleshooting and industrial maintenance—alongside completed certifications like NABTEB and COREN technician registration. Join professional groups like the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), and regularly share updates or achievements from relevant short courses. Include details of successful projects and quantify your impact where possible.

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