A recent tweet from a Nigerian registered nurse (Olamidun Abolarin) revealed she was earning just N40k per month. The tweet sparked outrage and pity from people (especially nurses).
While some people showed compassion and offer to help, others responded with remarks that could demoralize even the most dedicated professionals.
See the tweet below:
I'm a registered Nurse and I'm currently residing in Osogbo
— Olamiduni (@AbolarinEl90184) January 20, 2025
I'm highly in need of a job pls 🥺.
This 40k can not do anything.
From my point of view, this highlights a critical issue: undervaluation of nurses in the country (Nigeria) and lack of support systems.
Why are Nigeria Nurses Earning So Little?
The reasons are not farfetched. See some of them below:
- Under-funding of the Healthcare sector: Most healthcare facilities rely on insufficient budgets, leaving little room for competitive salaries.
- Lack of Union Representation: Are the nursing unions doing their work? And to make the matter worse, we still have nurses who do not belong to any union/body.
- Unaware to opportunities: Some nurses remain in the low-paying jobs due to limited knowledge of alternative income streams. It’s not all about sitting by the bedside!
- Lack of Mentorship: A mentor is someone who will make a journey of 10 years become 5 years or less for you. Some nurses have no idea of what to do because they have no one to guide them.
How Can Nigerian Nurses Earn More?
There are some proven ways nurses in Nigeria and beyond can earn more.
- Specialization: Specialize in sought-after areas such as critical care, Anesthetics, Travel Nursing, Dailysis nursing, Peri-operative nursing and so many others. Doing this will surely open doors to high-paying jobs in Nigeria and abroad.
- Take on Private Practice: Providing private nursing care to patients at home, such as post-surgical care or elderly care, can supplement your income.
- Explore Telemedicine: Telemedicine is becoming well known in Nigeria and it has created for Nurses and other healthcare professionals. Start from checking out the likes of Mobihealth International, iWello and co.
- Teach or Mentor: If you have experience and can teach, you can offer tutoring services for nursing students online and still make something on the side. You’re getting better and you earn more.
- Relocate: If you have the means and would love to (but why wouldn’t you love to?) consider relocating to countries like the UK, Canada, the USA, and others where nurses are better compensated.
- Start a Blog or YouTube Channel: You will be wrong to assume people already know things about their health. Sharing your knowledge and experience though a blog or YouTube can eventually lead to a source of income for you.
SEE ALSO: Business Ideas For Nurses You Can Try Today
Final Thoughts
Nigerian nurses earning N40k per month is not only demoralizing but also unsustainable in today’s economy. However, with the right information and taking actions on these information, Nigerian nurses can significantly improve their income.
While systemic reform is necessary to address the root causes of poor pay in the profession, it’s essential for every nurse to take charge of their career and explore diverse income streams. Remember, your skills and dedication are valuable—not just in Nigeria but globally.
What other ways can nurses in Nigeria increase their earnings? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Charles Wealth is an accomplished healthcare administrator with decades of hands-on experience across various healthcare organizations in Nigeria and beyond. Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession, Charles brings a wealth of expertise to healthcare management, policy, and professional development.
As a co-founder and Editor at Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a pivotal role in shaping content that educates, inspires, and unites nurses across the continent. His editorial vision focuses on amplifying the voices of nurses, highlighting best practices, addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, and promoting professional growth within the nursing community.
With a strong background in healthcare administration, Charles is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and effective leadership. He continues to contribute significantly to the development of robust healthcare systems and the empowerment of nurses through knowledge sharing and advocacy.
