How much does a Pediatrician earn in Nigeria?

Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in the care, diagnosis, and treatment of infants, children, and teenagers. They focus on managing physical, behavioral, and mental health issues affecting children from birth up to the age of 18. Their duties include conducting physical exams, vaccinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and advising parents on children's health, nutrition, and safety.

The average salary for a pediatrician 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: 250,000 - 400,000
• Mid-Level: 450,000 - 800,000
• Experienced: 850,000 - 1,200,000

• MBBS: Holders of a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery can expect to start at the lower end of the salary range.
• Pediatric Residency: Completion of a pediatric residency program significantly increases salary potential.
• Fellowship: Advanced pediatric fellowships in areas such as pediatric cardiology or neonatology further elevate earning capacity.

To embark on a career as a pediatrician in Nigeria involves several key steps and rigorous training.

1. Obtain a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from an accredited medical school in Nigeria.
2. Complete one year of housemanship in a recognized healthcare facility.
3. Undergo the compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.
4. Enroll in a medical residency program specializing in pediatrics, accredited by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
5. Seek further specialization through fellowships in subfields of pediatrics, if desired.

The foundational step to become a pediatrician in Nigeria is earning a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from an accredited university. This is followed by a residency in pediatrics, which requires passing the Primary Examination of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) or the West African College of Physicians (WACP) in Pediatrics.

After completing residency, pediatricians can enhance their credentials by obtaining certifications from the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) or the West African College of Physicians (WACP), specializing in pediatrics. These certifications are highly regarded and testify to the pediatrician’s expertise in their field.

Expanding your professional network is crucial for career advancement as a pediatrician. Create a comprehensive LinkedIn profile highlighting your medical degree, residencies, fellowships, and any specializations. Regularly engage with pediatric health issues, and follow established pediatricians and relevant medical groups in Nigeria and internationally for insights and opportunities.

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