The Ultimate Trusted Guide: 2025 CONHESS complete salary and allowance breakdown for Nigeria health staff
The Ultimate Trusted Guide: 2025 CONHESS complete salary and allowance breakdown for Nigeria health staff
Are you a health professional in Nigeria looking for a definitive guide to your career path and compensation? Whether you are a new graduate, a seasoned professional, or simply a student planning your future, understanding the 2025 CONHESS complete salary and allowance breakdown for Nigeria health staff is crucial. This comprehensive and trusted guide provides an in-depth analysis of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to navigate your career with confidence.
We’ll go beyond basic figures to explore every facet of CONHESS, including its structure, rank levels, detailed monthly pay, and the full spectrum of allowances available to non-physician health workers in Nigeria. This guide is your one-stop resource for understanding how promotions work, the key differences between CONHESS and other salary structures, and the immense value this system provides for long-term career growth.
Your Definitive Reference: 2025 CONHESS Salary and Allowance Overview
What is CONHESS? A Deep Dive into Nigeria’s Health Salary Framework
CONHESS, an acronym for Consolidated Health Salary Structure, is the official, harmonized salary framework established by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). It is specifically designed to provide a fair and consistent compensation system for all non-physician health workers in federal, and in many cases, state-owned health institutions across Nigeria.
This unified structure ensures that regardless of the health professional’s specific field—be it nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, medical laboratory science, or other critical roles—the foundational salary and allowance system remains the same. This standardization is a cornerstone of fair labor practices within Nigeria’s public health sector, covering professionals who work in a variety of institutions, including:
- Federal Medical Centres (FMCs)
- Teaching Hospitals (e.g., LUTH, UCH)
- National Health Agencies (e.g., NAFDAC, NCDC)
- Federal and State Ministry of Health Departments
The system is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect economic realities and address the professional demands of healthcare staff, with the 2025 structure reflecting the most recent adjustments and agreements.
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A Level-by-Level Breakdown of the CONHESS Salary Structure
The CONHESS salary structure is a 15-level framework, with each level further broken down into “steps” (1 to 9). These steps account for a yearly incremental increase in salary based on years of service, rewarding loyalty and experience. Here is a detailed look at what each range of levels means for a health worker’s career and monthly pay.
1. Entry-Level Support Staff (CONHESS 1-3)
- Monthly Salary: ₦50,000 – ₦80,000
- Who is this for? This entry point of the CONHESS salary structure is for junior support staff, including health attendants, clerical officers, and administrative assistants. They play a vital role in the smooth functioning of a hospital, managing administrative tasks, and providing basic support. A promotion from CONHESS 1 to 2 is typically based on a few years of service and good performance.
2. Mid-Level Professionals (CONHESS 4-6)
- Monthly Salary: ₦85,000 – ₦130,000
- Who is this for? These levels are typically for individuals with National Diploma (ND) or equivalent qualifications. They include auxiliary nurses, technicians, and other technical staff who have a few years of experience. They are entrusted with more specialized tasks and often work under the supervision of more senior professionals. This range also marks the beginning of more significant allowances and professional development opportunities.
3. Senior & Licensed Practitioners (CONHESS 7-9)
- Monthly Salary: ₦135,000 – ₦190,000
- Who is this for? This is the crucial entry point for university graduates and licensed professionals. A newly employed staff nurse, radiographer, pharmacist, or medical laboratory scientist with a BSc or HND typically starts at CONHESS 7. This level signifies professional recognition and the ability to work with a greater degree of autonomy. A significant portion of the 2025 CONHESS complete salary and allowance breakdown for Nigeria health staff is centered on this band, which represents the core of the healthcare workforce.
4. Management & Specialized Roles (CONHESS 10-12)
- Monthly Salary: ₦200,000 – ₦300,000
- Who is this for? As professionals gain experience and take on leadership roles, they move into this band. It includes unit heads, clinical supervisors, and highly experienced specialists. The transition from CONHESS 9 to 10 is often a significant career milestone, accompanied by increased responsibility and allowances. At these levels, workers are expected to mentor junior staff, manage teams, and contribute to institutional policy.
5. Top-Level Leadership (CONHESS 13-15)
- Monthly Salary: ₦320,000 – ₦500,000+
- Who is this for? These are the highest ranks within the CONHESS salary structure. They are reserved for seasoned professionals who hold senior management roles, such as deputy directors, hospital directors, and top-level consultants in their respective fields. Attaining these levels requires a combination of extensive experience, advanced qualifications (e.g., master’s degrees or fellowships), and proven leadership skills. The compensation at this level is the peak of the CONHESS salary and allowance breakdown for Nigeria health staff, reflecting a career of dedicated service and professional achievement.
A Comprehensive Look at Allowances under CONHESS
One of the most attractive aspects of a federal health job in Nigeria is the robust system of allowances, which can significantly boost a health worker’s total take-home pay. These allowances are designed to compensate for various aspects of the job, including risk, location, and the nature of work.
Standard Allowances under CONHESS in 2025:
- Call Duty Allowance (CDA): This is a key allowance for health professionals on emergency rosters. It compensates for working outside of regular hours, including nights and weekends. The amount (₦10,000 – ₦40,000) is often tied to the number of shifts and the specific grade level.
- Shift Duty Allowance: A regular payment (₦10,000 – ₦25,000) for staff who work on a rotating shift system, including night shifts and public holidays.
- Hazard Allowance: This allowance (₦15,000 – ₦30,000) is a crucial component of the CONHESS allowance Nigeria framework. It is paid to frontline health workers who are exposed to infectious diseases, hazardous materials, and other risks in their line of duty.
- Rural Posting Allowance: A significant incentive (₦20,000 – ₦50,000) to encourage professionals to work in remote or underserved areas. This is a critical allowance for addressing the uneven distribution of healthcare professionals across Nigeria.
- Professional Registration Allowance: An annual stipend provided to help cover the cost of renewing professional licenses with their respective regulatory bodies (e.g., Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria).
- Uniform Maintenance Allowance: A quarterly payment (₦5,000 – ₦15,000) to assist with the cost of maintaining professional uniforms and attire.
- Housing Allowance: A substantial allowance (₦30,000 – ₦100,000+) that varies based on the worker’s grade level and location. This is often a fixed percentage of the basic salary.
- Leave Allowance: Paid annually, this allowance is equivalent to one month’s basic salary, providing a vital financial cushion for staff to take their annual leave.
It’s important to note that the specific amounts of these allowances can be subject to change based on government policies, union negotiations, and the internal budget of the employing institution.
Promotion and Career Progression under CONHESS
Career progression is a key feature of the CONHESS salary structure. It offers a clear pathway for professional growth, rewarding both experience and dedication. Promotions are not automatic; they are based on a set of criteria designed to ensure a high standard of professional development.
Key Requirements for Promotion:
- Years of Service: A minimum of three years of continuous service at a particular grade level is typically required before an employee is eligible for promotion to the next level.
- Performance Appraisal: Annual performance reviews are a critical component. A strong track record of positive performance and meeting set targets is essential for advancement.
- Professional Development: Completing professional exams, participating in workshops, and acquiring new skills or certifications are often required for moving up the ladder, especially for promotions to senior management roles.
- Vacancy & Budget: While an employee may meet all the professional requirements, a promotion is often contingent on the availability of a vacant position and the institution’s budget.
A successful promotion not only leads to a higher grade level but also results in a significant increase in both basic salary and allowances, providing a powerful incentive for continuous self-improvement.
CONHESS vs. CONMESS: A Clear Comparison
For anyone in the healthcare sector, understanding the difference between CONHESS and CONMESS is essential. While both are federal salary structures, they cater to different professional groups.
The primary distinction lies in the target audience, with CONMESS offering a higher entry-level salary and specific allowances that reflect the unique training and responsibilities of medical doctors.
The CONHESS Salary in Context: A Look at Other Public Sector Structures
To truly appreciate the value of a job under CONHESS, it’s helpful to compare it to other public sector salary structures in Nigeria.
As the table shows, the CONHESS structure is highly competitive for its intended roles, offering a stable and rewarding career path. It is particularly well-suited for long-term growth due to its clear promotion structure and the stability of a federal job.
How CONHESS Salary is Processed and Paid
The entire payment process for CONHESS is managed through the federal government’s Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). This system ensures transparency and consistency in payments across all federal institutions.
- Monthly Payments: Salaries are paid monthly directly into the employee’s bank account.
- Payslips: Employees receive detailed payslips from their hospital’s HR department, outlining their basic pay, allowances, and statutory deductions like PENCOM (pension contributions), NHIS (National Health Insurance Scheme), and tax.
- Annual and Quarterly Payments: Allowances like leave allowance are paid annually, while uniform and call duty allowances may be paid quarterly.
The Enduring Benefits of a CONHESS Career Path
Choosing a career under the CONHESS structure comes with a host of benefits that go beyond the monthly salary.
- Job Security: Federal jobs are known for their stability and long-term security, offering peace of mind to employees.
- Pension Scheme: The federal government’s pension scheme provides a secure retirement plan.
- Professional Development: Employees are eligible for continuous training, workshops, and international conferences, fostering professional growth.
- Health Coverage: Access to the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) ensures comprehensive health coverage for the employee and their family.
- Structured Growth: A clear promotion pathway means you can plan your career progression and work towards specific milestones.
Living on a CONHESS Salary: A Realistic Breakdown
While salaries can seem modest, the various allowances play a critical role in an employee’s quality of life. An entry-level professional at CONHESS 7, with a basic salary of around ₦130,000, can live comfortably when allowances are factored in.
With careful budgeting, an entry-level professional can manage these expenses and still have a significant portion of their income available for savings or other needs.
Is a CONHESS Career Path Worth It in 2025?
For non-physician health professionals in Nigeria, the CONHESS salary structure is more than just a pay scale; it is a comprehensive career framework. With its clear promotion steps, competitive allowances, and the stability of a federal job, it offers a secure and rewarding path for those dedicated to public service. The 2025 CONHESS complete salary and allowance breakdown for Nigeria health staff confirms that this system provides the necessary incentives for long-term commitment and professional excellence. If you are looking for a career that offers stability, growth, and a chance to make a real impact on healthcare in Nigeria, a CONHESS job is an excellent choice.
- National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC): This is the official body responsible for setting and reviewing salary structures in the Nigerian public sector, including CONHESS. Their website is the most authoritative source for official circulars and documents. While specific salary figures for “2025” may not be in a single public-facing document, the site contains the official circulars and reports on salary reviews and minimum wage implementation.
- Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) & Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU): These unions represent the health workers and are often involved in the negotiations and advocacy for salary and allowance reviews. Their websites or press releases are reliable for understanding the history of salary adjustments and current demands.
- Major Nigerian News Outlets: Reputable news organizations like Channels Television and Punch Newspapers regularly report on government announcements regarding salary increases and new circulars. These sources provide contextual information and analysis of the official documents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CONHESS in Nigeria
What is the starting salary for a CONHESS 7 employee in 2025? The basic monthly salary for a CONHESS 7 employee is approximately ₦130,000 to ₦150,000, depending on the specific step, and this is before allowances are added.
Which professions fall under CONHESS? CONHESS covers a wide range of non-physician roles, including nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, physiotherapists, radiographers, health record officers, and nutritionists.
Is CONHESS a federal or state salary structure? It is a federal structure, but many state governments have adopted it to harmonize their own salary systems for health workers.
How does CONHESS differ from CONTISS? CONHESS is specifically for health workers in hospitals and health agencies, while CONTISS (Consolidated Tertiary Institution Salary Structure) is for academic and non-academic staff in universities and other tertiary institutions.
Do all health workers on CONHESS receive hazard allowance? Hazard allowance is a standard part of the pay for frontline staff who are directly involved in patient care or exposed to hazardous environments.
