How to Become a Pilot in Nigeria: Costs & Salary

Do you have an interest in learning how to become a pilot in Nigeria? Are you curious about the required courses and costs involved? If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the Nigerian skies, this article is your essential guide to making it happen. We’ll break down the steps, requirements, and opportunities for aspiring pilots in Nigeria, all in plain and simple language.

Who Is a Pilot?

Before we dive into the details, let’s clarify what a pilot is. A pilot in Nigeria is someone qualified to operate aircraft, whether in the commercial, private, or military sectors. They are responsible for transporting people, goods, or military personnel. You can find pilots in commercial airlines, private aviation, or military training programs.

Private pilots in Nigeria might be self-employed or work for individuals with private jets to provide transport. Military pilots, on the other hand, fly jets, bombers, and helicopters for various missions, including combat, rescue, and reconnaissance.

Requirements On How to Become a Pilot In Nigeria

To pursue a career as a pilot in Nigeria, you must meet specific requirements. These requirements are essential to embark on your journey to the skies.

1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to gain admission to aviation schools in Nigeria or be employed in the industry.
2. Language Proficiency: Being fluent in English and any native language is crucial. English is the formal language for communication in Nigeria.
3. Education: You need a Secondary School Leaving Certificate with at least five credits, including Mathematics, English, Physics, Geography, and other science subjects. While not mandatory, having a university degree increases your chances of landing a job.
4. Commercial Pilot Certificate: This is the final requirement to get employed by any airline company in Nigeria.

The first four requirements are quite straightforward, but let’s explore the fifth requirement, the Commercial Pilot Certificate, in more detail.

Education and Training

Becoming a pilot in Nigeria starts with education and training. Enrolling in an aviation school is the first step. However, it’s essential to consider a few factors:

1. Cost: Most aviation schools in Nigeria are expensive, with tuition fees ranging from 6 to 8 million Naira. If this cost is daunting, consider scholarships or financial assistance from airline companies that you can repay after graduation.
2. Approval: Choose an aviation school approved by the Nigerian FAA (Federal Aviation Association) to ensure your education is recognized.

How much do Nigerian pilots earn?

The income of Nigerian pilots varies based on several factors. Your experience plays a significant role. As a beginner, your salary is likely lower than an experienced pilot’s. Additionally, the airline you work for influences your earnings, as some companies pay more than others.

On average, starting pilots can earn around N200,000, but as you gain experience and higher ratings, your salary can increase to N300,000 or more. Nigerian pilot captains earn the most, ranging from N500,000 to N3,000,000.

If you aspire to earn a significant income, working hard to become a captain is the key.

Do you need to take JAMB for aviation schools? What are the pilot subjects in Jamb?

Yes, gaining admission to aviation schools in Nigeria requires taking JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board) exams. Not only should you take JAMB, but you also need to meet the cutoff mark, which varies depending on the school.

The JAMB subjects for aspiring pilots are Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Technical Drawing, with English being a compulsory subject. These science-oriented subjects align with the technical and engineering aspects of aviation.

So, if your dream is to become a pilot, focus on science courses during your secondary school education.

Which is the best aviation school in Nigeria?

While there is no official ranking for aviation schools in Nigeria, some are highly regarded. Here are a few of the top aviation schools:

1. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology
2. International Aviation College
3. Landover Aviation Business School
4. Universal School of Aviation
5. Dhaewood Aviation Business School

Choosing the right school is crucial, and ensure that the Nigerian FAA approves it for a recognized education.

How to become a pilot in the Nigerian Air Force

Becoming a pilot in the Nigerian Air Force is a unique journey involving military training. You won’t attend a regular aviation school. Instead, you’ll start by enrolling in the Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA). After graduating from the Defense Academy, you can join the Nigerian Air Force for additional training. This training covers piloting and military combat, making it a distinct path.

Final Note

Becoming a pilot in Nigeria is a dream for many, thanks to the excitement and potential earnings it offers. However, it’s crucial to understand the responsibilities and risks of this profession. You’ll be responsible for the safety and well-being of the people you transport, and their lives may depend on you. Nevertheless, with the right education and dedication, you can make this dream a reality. There are several reputable aviation schools in Nigeria, so aim for the best one that suits your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: What are the age requirements to become a pilot in Nigeria?
   • A: You must be at least 18 to gain admission to aviation schools and pursue a pilot career in Nigeria.
2. Q: How much can a pilot in Nigeria earn?
   • A: Pilot salaries in Nigeria vary based on experience and the airline they work for. Starting pilots can earn around N200,000, while experienced captains can earn up to N3,000,000.
3. Q: Do I need to take JAMB exams for aviation schools in Nigeria?
   • A: Yes, to gain admission to aviation schools in Nigeria, you need to take JAMB exams, and you should meet the cutoff mark, which varies by school.
4. Q: What subjects should I study for JAMB if I want to become a pilot?
   • A: The JAMB subjects for aspiring pilots include Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Technical Drawing, with English as a compulsory subject.
5. Q: What is the best aviation school in Nigeria?
   • A: While there’s no official ranking, some of the top aviation schools in Nigeria include Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, International Aviation College, Landover Aviation Business School, Universal School of Aviation, and Dhaewood Aviation Business School.