A comprehensive evaluation of the salary structure of National Agricultural Extension, Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS) is crucial for professionals planning to venture into agricultural research in Nigeria.
NAERLS which is one of the 18 national agricultural research institutes under the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), has a big role in the dissemination of improved agricultural technologies and practices to Farmers and Stakeholders and serves as a bridge between Farmers, Stakeholders, and Government.
In this piece, we comprehensively analyze NAERELS salary structure, career advancement opportunities, allowances, and other pertinent details for prospective employees and experts in the field.
What is NAERLS?
The National Agricultural Extension, Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS) is an institution under the federal government located in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. It is charged with the responsibility of developing, packaging, and broadcasting agricultural technologies and best practices to farmers and extension workers in all the states of Nigeria.
For the realization of the Agricultural transformation agenda of Nigeria, NAERLS partners with State Agricultural Development Projects (ADPs), NGOs, and other international organizations.
Overview of NAERLS Salary Structure
As a federal government agency in Nigeria, NAERLS operates under the salary scheme of the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS). This salary structure is used across all agricultural and research institutions under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Key Salary Components under CONRAISS:
- Basic Salary
- Housing Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Research Allowance
- Hazard Allowance
- Leave Bonus
- Pension Contributions
Entry-Level Salary at NAERLS
For fresh graduates and beginners in the field, NAERLS provides reasonable starting salaries in consideration with federal remuneration benchmarks.
- The starting salary for an entry level Research Officer (Grade Level 08) is set between ₦120,000 and ₦150,000 monthly (excluding benefits).Â
The range for Extension Officers and Administrative staff may also begin from the same level depending on relevance and role.
- Employees holding a master’s degree will start at Grade Level 09, while Grade Level 10 or 12 will be held by others with PhDs. Â
NAERLS Mid-Career Positions And Their Salary Ranges
Employees do receive pay raises as they gain more experience through years of working, their increasing salaries also reflect this rise in responsibilities.
- Research Fellow II (CONRAISS 09) – ₦160,000 – ₦190,000 Â
- Research Fellow I (CONRAISS 10) – ₦200,000 – ₦240,000 Â
- Senior Research Fellow (CONRAISS 12) – ₦260,000 – ₦300,000 Â
Employees are usually promoted based on the duration of service and measurable output, such as academic publications or project contributions.
Senior Level And Director Cadre Salaries of NAERLS
Senior officers and directors at NAERLS enjoy attractive salary packages, often including fringe benefits and allowances.
- Principal Research Fellow (CONRAISS 13) – ₦320,000 – ₦380,000 Â
- Chief Research Fellow (CONRAISS 14) – ₦400,000 – ₦450,000 Â
- Director Of Research (CONRAISS 15) – ₦500,000 – ₦600,000+ Â
These can have added duty tour allowance, responsibility allowance, and vehicle grants.
Allowances and Benefits for NAERLS Employees
In addition to base salaries, NAERLS staff are entitled to various allowances that enhance their take-home pay:
- Research Allowance – up to 10-20% of basic salary
- Hazard Allowance – for those in field research or labs
- Housing Allowance – between 20-40% depending on level
- Leave and Medical Benefits – full coverage including family
- Pension Scheme – contributory pension in line with federal policy
Key Factors That Influence Salaries at NAERLS
The salary remuneration at NAERLS depends on some factors, the most important of which are:
- Grade Level: Employees of NAERLS that are paid less are the entry-level staff whereas more senior researchers and directors fall in the higher brackets.
- Job Role: Salaries also differ for administrative and support staff, technical staff, and research specialists who fall in different brackets.
- Years of Experience: As is the case within most other federal structures,salary increases with time spent in the system, which are generally supplemented with periodic promotions and step increments.
Contract and Temporary Staff Salaries
NAERLS also employs contract and temporary staff, especially for field surveys and seasonal research programs. While not under CONRAISS, their pay is often fixed on a monthly or project basis.
- Contract Research Assistants – ₦40,000 – ₦70,000 monthly
- Field Enumerators – Paid per day or per task
- Interns/NYSC Members – ₦30,000 – ₦45,000 monthly stipend
These roles can sometimes transition into permanent positions depending on performance and availability of vacancies.
Academic and Non-Academic Roles at NAERLS
NAERLS offers a diverse range of job roles categorized broadly into:
- Academic/Research Roles – Scientists, Fellows, Analysts
- Extension Roles – Liaison officers, Trainers
- Technical Support Roles – Lab technicians, IT officers
- Administrative Roles – Accountants, HR, Procurement officers
Each category has its specific salary grade based on the Federal Civil Service guidelines and educational requirements.
How to Join NAERLS and What to Expect
To join NAERLS, applicants must meet the qualifications listed in public job adverts usually published on the NAERLS website or national dailies. The recruitment process includes:
- Online application
- Written aptitude test
- Oral interview
- Screening and documentation
New hires undergo orientation and are placed on probation for up to one year, after which they may be confirmed as full staff.
Comparison with Other Agricultural Institutions
NAERLS also does not fall short compared to other federal agricultural research institutes in Nigeria, with an edge in salary remuneration using the CONRAISS system. While similar institutions like the Nigerian Agricultural Research Council are reputed to have consonant pay scales, NAERLS fares better with additional payments for extension officers and researchers who actively participate in rural field operations.
Challenges with NAERLS Salary Structure
Even with its advantages, the NAERLS remuneration scheme has some issues, which include:
- Delayed Payments: Government institutions are notorious for paying government employees’ salaries late due to budgeting issues.
- Geographical Inequities: Extension officers operating in rural or conflict-ridden areas may find the allowances grossly inadequate to cover the dangers faced.
- Low Entry-Level Pay: Although competitive within public sector offerings, starting salaries are frequently critiqued as being low vis-a-vis private sector alternatives.
Promotion and Career Progression at NAERLS
At NAERLS, career progression is structured with consideration of one’s merit, academic qualifications, and duration of service.
Staff undergo annual evaluations, and promotions are awarded in accordance with meeting specific performance criteria and attending offered training sessions.
Academic staff members who wish to be promoted are required to undertake outreach activities and publish research papers and attend relevant conferences.
Final Thoughts on Salary Structure of National Agricultural Extension, Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS)
Salary Structure of National Agricultural Extension, Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS)
are set with regards to the level of commitment to the advancement and prioritization of agriculture in Nigeria.
Despite various challenges, the institution’s focus on research and extension work does provide attractive prospects for professionals in the field.
NAERLS continues to be an institution of choice for graduates wishing to gain experience and for seasoned experts hoping to grow their careers due to its reputation for stable income, commitment to national agricultural development, and value in professional contributions.
FAQs – Salary Structure of National Agricultural Extension, Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS)
Who is the executive director of Naerls?
The executive director of NAERLS is Prof. Yusuf A. Sani.
Where can a graduate of agricultural extension work in Nigeria?
NAERLS is one of the numerous agricultural and agro allied agencies a graduate of agricultural extension can work in Nigeria.
What does Naerls stand for?
NAERLS stands for National Agricultural Extension, Research and Liaison Services.
Disclaimer:
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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