The Salary Structure of National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) is a reflection of the institution’s dedication to rewarding its workforce while advancing pharmaceutical research in Nigeria.
The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) is an important healthcare institution in Nigeria that concentrates on researching, developing, and formulating drugs as well as the health system of the country.
For people seeking employment at NIPRD, this guide covers in detail, the salary structure of NIPRD, allowances, determinants of salaries, and other measures of the institute.
What is NIPRD?
NIPRD is a government owned pharmaceutical research institute that was set up to promote research in pharmacies and drugs within the country.
It is an autonomous body under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Health of Nigeria. The aim of the organization is to improve the existing traditional medicine and its application through innovation and extend healthcare services throughout Nigeria.
Because of its high level, NIPRD has a wide range of employees which includes pharmacists, medical scientists, researchers, administrators, all of which, in one way or the other, work towards the goal of the institute.
The wages and salaries are controlled by the NIPRD and takes into account other government policies and frameworks as well as prevailing national salary scales.
Overview of NIPRD and Its Mandate
NIPRD was established in 1987 with a primary focus on undertaking research and development activities in the areas of drugs, vaccines, phytomedicines, and other pharmaceutical products.
It also provides training, policy advocacy, and quality control services.
With the status of a government-funded agency, its salary structure follows stringent public sector pay rules, particularly from salary structures known as CONHESS (Consolidated Health Salary Structure) and CONRAISS (Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure) according to the position held.
What Determines Salary at NIPRD?
The salary of a staff at NIPRD is influenced by multiple factors:
- Job grade level
- Years of experience
- Educational qualifications
- Specialization or field of research
- Administrative roles or research achievements
- All these factors and more affect career progression and financial compensation. Â
NIPRD Salary Structure 2025
Entry Level Salary for Fresh Graduates at NIPRD
Typically recruited as Research Assistants or Junior Research Fellows, fresh graduates fall under the specified category. The expected entry-level earning should not be below CONRAISS 07 or 08, sometimes even higher depending on qualifications.
Estimated Monthly Salary: ₦100,000 – ₦140,000
Additional benefits: Housing allowance, transport allowance for the base and research stipend for the advanced level.
Graduates with a master’s degree or relevant experience may start on a higher level.
Salary Structure for Research Officers and Senior Researchers at NIPRD
As professionals gain experience and attain higher qualifications, they are promoted to more senior research roles. These include:
- Research Officer I & II
- Senior Research Officer
- Principal Research Officer
- Chief Research Officer
- Director of Research
The salary increases significantly at this level, with allowances and other incentives included.
| Rank | Grade Level | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
| Research Officer II | CONRAISS 08 | ₦130,000 – ₦160,000 |
| Research Officer I | CONRAISS 09 | ₦160,000 – ₦190,000 |
| Senior Research Officer | CONRAISS 10 | ₦200,000 – ₦240,000 |
| Principal Research Officer | CONRAISS 11 | ₦250,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Chief Research Officer | CONRAISS 13 | ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 |
| Director of Research | CONRAISS 15 | ₦500,000 – ₦750,000 |
Administrative and Non-Research Roles Salary at NIPRD
Not all employees at NIPRD are researchers. The institute also employs:
- Administrative staff
- IT specialists
- Accountants and auditors
- Lab technologists
- Security and maintenance personnel
These roles are usually graded under the CONPSS (Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure) or CONTISS. Salaries in this category range from ₦80,000 to ₦300,000, and more, depending on the role and grade level.
Allowances and Bonuses at NIPRD
Beyond the base salary, NIPRD staff enjoy a range of allowances and financial benefits, including:
- Hazard allowance
- Research allowance
- Rural posting allowance (if applicable)
- Leave grant
- Transport and housing allowances
These benefits can significantly increase the total monthly take-home.
Internship and NYSC Corps Member Compensation at NIPRD
NIPRD provides a gateway for interns and NYSC corps members as well. While not full salaried positions, they do offer a stipend and allowance.
- NYSC Allowance: ₦30,000 – ₦40,000 monthly Â
- Internship Stipend: ₦40,000 – ₦70,000 monthly depending on department Â
These roles serve as optimal pathways to a permanent position at the institute.
Career Path and Promotion Timelines at NIPRD
NIPRD promotions are conducted under civil service guidelines and are based on:
- Duration of service (normally every 3-5 years)
- Evaluations of performance
- Training and other certifications
- Available positions
Scheduled promotional exams and assessments are routinely carried out to determine advancement progression.
NIPRD provides a systematic career progression framework with possibilities for advancement. Employees can advance through promotions based on their performance, experience, and academic achievement.
The institute supports ongoing professional training, allowing staff to conduct research, publish, and take part in local and global pharmaceutical projects.
Significant Career Positions at NIPRD:
- Research Scientists engaged in the innovation and development of drugs Â
- Pharmacognosists focused on the study of medicinal plants Â
- Laboratory Technicians assisting in research work Â
- Administrative Support Staff managing daily activities Â
Each position at NIPRD offers a unique combination of challenges and opportunities to succeed and make a difference in a fast paced rewarding environment.
Why Consider Working at NIPRD?
As emerging experts in the pharmaceutical sector, NIPRD offers a remarkable foundation for enhancing their experience and knowledge.
Check out the main reasons why you should join the institute:
- Take part in life changing pharmaceutical medication development and research. Â
- Salaries are paid on time and are very attractive under the CONRAISS scheme. Â
- Participate in offered professional development and training initiatives. Â
- Enjoy job confidence as a government institution worker. Â
- Enjoy impact research and result driven workplace culture.
How NIPRD Salaries Compare with Other Health Agencies
Salaries at NIPRD are relatively competitive compared to other agencies like NAFDAC, NDLEA, or the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), especially for researchers.
NAFDAC may provide slightly higher field allowances for enforcement duties, but NIPRD counters this with greatly subsidized research incentives and academic benefits.
To further compare NIPRD Salaries with other stakeholders:
- Private Pharmaceutical Companies: Generally, these firms pay more due to profitability and rewarding talent. However, performance pressure is quite high, and jobs tend to provide less stability.
- International NGOs and Research Institutes: These organizations also maintain higher salary scales. Competition is fierce for these positions as they often come with international credentials or experience.
- Local Research Institutions: NIPRD’s salaries are competitive among the quasi government institutions in Nigeria, making it one of the favorable employers in this region.
Conclusion on Salary Structure of National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD)
The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) clearly outlines a detailed and strategic approach in the organization’s salary structure to demonstrate its commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical research.
Whether you are an upcoming scientist or an administration professional interested in pursuing a career at NIPRD, this guide provides a transparent view of what to expect in terms of salaries and benefits.
Disclaimer:
The salary information provided in this article is based on data available as of the publication date and is intended for general informational purposes only. The salaries listed are subject to change and may vary depending on individual circumstances, location, and other factors.
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