If you’re a recent graduate in Nigeria aiming to break into the banking sector, you’re probably wondering: which banks pay the most for graduate trainees in 2025? This guide is your answer.
Graduate trainee programs are one of the best ways to start a career in banking. Not only do they offer valuable training and mentorship, but some Nigerian banks also pay very well — even during the training period.
Let’s dive into the top paying banks for graduate trainees in Nigeria this year.
Access Bank
Access Bank continues to lead the pack in 2025. Graduate trainees currently earn between ₦270,000 and ₦300,000 monthly during the program. The training typically lasts four to six months and includes both classroom sessions and hands-on experience. Trainees also enjoy health insurance, transport allowances, and a strong chance of full-time employment after completion.
GTBank (Guaranty Trust Bank)
GTBank offers a competitive graduate trainee salary in the range of ₦240,000 to ₦260,000 per month. The program lasts three to six months and includes in-depth training in customer service, digital banking, and operations. GTBank is also known for a fast-paced, tech-driven environment with lots of learning opportunities.
Zenith Bank
Zenith Bank pays its graduate trainees around ₦230,000 to ₦250,000 monthly. Their training program spans four to six months and is designed to develop strong core banking skills. Performance bonuses and incentives are also available for top-performing trainees.
UBA (United Bank for Africa)
UBA offers its graduate trainees a monthly salary between ₦200,000 and ₦220,000. The program is usually three to four months long and provides both local and pan-African career exposure. UBA is a great choice if you’re looking for cross-border opportunities in Africa’s banking industry.
First Bank of Nigeria
First Bank pays graduate trainees about ₦190,000 to ₦210,000 monthly. This is one of the most structured programs in the country, lasting three to six months. Trainees benefit from pension contributions, medical cover, and the chance to work with an institution that has decades of banking excellence.
Stanbic IBTC Bank
Graduate trainees at Stanbic IBTC earn between ₦180,000 and ₦200,000 monthly. The program runs for three to six months and emphasizes tech-savvy banking practices. It’s ideal for graduates interested in innovation, financial services, and digital transformation.
Fidelity Bank
Fidelity Bank’s graduate trainee program pays around ₦170,000 to ₦190,000 monthly. The training runs for about four months and focuses heavily on customer service and operational efficiency. While the salary may be slightly lower, Fidelity is known for strong internal growth and promotion pathways.
Starting your career in banking through a graduate trainee program can open the door to long-term success. If pay is a priority for you, Access Bank, GTBank, and Zenith Bank currently offer the best compensation packages in Nigeria.
However, don’t choose a bank based on salary alone. Also consider the quality of training, company culture, and long-term career opportunities.
