A Nigerian academic who previously worked as a lecturer abroad has opened up about his experience teaching overseas and revealed how his monthly earnings compared to what he could have earned in Nigeria.
The man, identified as Dozie Francis Okpaleke, shared his insights on social media while offering advice to Nigerians seeking to improve their careers and financial prospects. According to him, staying in Nigeria as an associate professor or senior lecturer would have limited his earnings drastically, with many lecturers reportedly making less than $500 per month.
Life and pay abroad vs. Nigeria
Okpaleke reflected on the opportunities he accessed while working overseas, including research grants, travel allowances, and higher salaries. He wrote:
“There is NOTHING as painful as knowing you can be better than your current situation, but you’re limited by country or geography.
I know for a fact that if I were in Nigeria today, my salary as a Senior Lecturer or Associate Professor would not even reach 500,000 naira — less than $400. If I hadn’t Japa years ago, it would pain me to know I could earn far more for the same position and have access to research and travel grants that could bring in over $7,000 per month, depending on the country. It would hurt to know that my monthly salary couldn’t even cover a flight to the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
Nothing hurts more than living life below your full potential. I’m not saying Japa alone solves everything, but when done right, it can be a game changer. No professor earns $500/month. When I was a University Tutor abroad, my monthly take-home was nearly $2,000 (₦2,771,688.92) while tutoring about three courses.”
Advice to Nigerians
He encouraged Nigerians to explore global opportunities, even if they choose to remain in the country:
“You can be more. Even if you stay in Nigeria, tap into the endless resources available globally. Apply for sabbaticals, attend international conferences, seek internships, apply for travel grants, write proposals, or get remote gigs that pay in dollars. Don’t live your life in naira when the world pays in USD.
If you succeed in moving abroad, no matter how comfortable the place or how long your visa lasts, one goal must guide you: Permanent Residency. It’s a journey, but that’s what allows you to truly settle abroad and unlock your full potential.”
Okpaleke’s reflections highlight the vast differences in academic remuneration between Nigeria and foreign countries while encouraging young professionals to actively pursue opportunities that can elevate their careers and financial stability.
