The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is the body responsible for overseeing elections in Nigeria. It plays a critical role in maintaining democracy by organizing free and fair elections. As a government agency, INEC employs thousands of Nigerians across different roles—from permanent staff to ad hoc workers during election periods. Understanding the salary structure of INEC staff is important, especially for those interested in joining the organization or participating in election-related jobs.
Overview of INEC Staff Categories
INEC employs different categories of personnel, and salaries vary based on the nature of employment, qualification, rank, and job responsibilities. The major categories include:
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Permanent Staff: These are full-time employees who work in INEC offices across Nigeria.
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Ad-Hoc Staff: Hired temporarily during elections, including positions like presiding officers, assistant presiding officers, collation officers, and supervisory presiding officers.
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Contract Staff: Sometimes engaged for specific projects or administrative duties.
INEC Permanent Staff Salary Structure
Permanent staff salaries at INEC are based on the Federal Civil Service Salary Structure, specifically the Consolidated Public Salary Structure (CONPSS). The pay varies depending on the grade level, which is determined by educational qualification and years of service.
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Grade Level 04–06: These are entry-level positions for candidates with SSCE, OND, or NCE qualifications. Monthly salary ranges from ₦50,000 to ₦70,000.
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Grade Level 07–10: This category includes graduates with HND or Bachelor’s degrees. Monthly salary ranges from ₦80,000 to ₦120,000.
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Grade Level 12–14: Senior staff members, such as principal officers or assistant directors, earn between ₦150,000 and ₦250,000 monthly.
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Grade Level 15–17: These are top-level management roles like directors or commissioners. Monthly salary can range from ₦300,000 to ₦500,000 or more.
INEC Ad-Hoc Staff Salary Structure
Ad-hoc staff are employed temporarily during elections. Their compensation is usually calculated per day or assignment and is paid shortly after the conclusion of their duties.
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Presiding Officers (PO): Earn around ₦30,000–₦35,000 per election.
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Assistant Presiding Officers (APO I, II, III): Receive between ₦28,000–₦30,000.
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Supervisory Presiding Officers (SPOs): Paid around ₦45,000–₦60,000.
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Collation Officers and Returning Officers: These senior roles can attract ₦80,000–₦120,000 or more depending on the level of responsibility.
Additional allowances are usually provided for training, transportation, and feeding during election assignments.
Allowances and Benefits
Permanent staff enjoy other benefits beyond the basic salary:
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Housing Allowance
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Transport Allowance
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Leave Allowance
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Medical Benefits
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Pension Contributions
Ad-hoc staff may receive allowances for training, feeding, and transportation depending on INEC’s budget and logistics plan for a specific election.
Factors Influencing Salary Variations
Several factors influence how much an INEC staff earns:
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Location: Salaries may vary slightly by state or region due to cost of living adjustments.
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Experience: Higher levels of experience can qualify staff for promotions and better pay.
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Educational Qualification: Determines the entry-level grade for permanent roles.
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Nature of Election: During high-stake elections (like presidential elections), ad-hoc workers may be paid higher.
FAQs About INEC Salary Structure
What is the monthly salary of a permanent INEC staff with a degree?
A permanent staff member with a Bachelor’s degree typically enters on Grade Level 08 and earns between ₦80,000 and ₦100,000 monthly.
How much do ad-hoc staff earn during elections?
INEC ad-hoc staff such as presiding officers earn between ₦28,000 and ₦60,000 depending on their role and election type.
Are INEC ad-hoc staff paid for training?
Yes, INEC usually provides a training allowance ranging from ₦3,000 to ₦5,000 depending on the location and role.
Do INEC permanent staff receive other allowances apart from salary?
Yes, permanent staff are entitled to housing, transport, medical, leave, and pension allowances as per the Federal Civil Service rules.
Also Read: INEC PVC Online Registration Portal
