How much does it cost to drill a borehole in Nigeria?
Updated 23 October 2026 · By the Fixgent team
Short answer
A complete household borehole (survey, drilling, casing, pump, tank and connection) costs about ₦800,000 to ₦3.5 million in 2026. Shallow holes in soft Lagos soil sit at the lower end (around ₦900,000–₦1.5 million); deep holes through rock, common around Abuja, can reach ₦2–3.5 million.
Typical borehole prices in 2026
| Job | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Complete system (drill, casing, pump, tank) | ₦800,000 – ₦3.5m | |
| Lagos, shallow domestic borehole | ₦900,000 – ₦1.5m | Soft coastal soil. |
| Abuja, average | ₦900,000 – ₦2.3m | Deep holes through rock: ₦2m–₦3.5m. |
| Drilling only, per metre | ₦15,000 – ₦25,000 | |
| Geophysical survey | ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 | Finds where and how deep to drill. |
Ranges are from the sources listed below, checked 23 October 2026. Prices move with fuel, parts and exchange rates; always confirm the price before work starts.
Depth and ground decide the price
The biggest cost driver is how deep the driller has to go and how hard the ground is. Rocky ground in Abuja and the north needs heavier rigs and more time than the soft soil near the coast. A survey before drilling reduces the risk of a dry or low-yield hole.
What a quote should list
- Survey, drilling depth and per-metre rate beyond the agreed depth.
- Casing type and size, and gravel packing.
- Pump brand and size, tank size and stand, and the plumbing connection.
- Water testing, and what happens if the hole is dry.
Water quality
Borehole water often has iron, odour or bacteria. Budget for a water test and, if needed, treatment such as filtration before drinking or cooking with it.
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See pricesQuestions people ask
Why are some quotes only ₦300,000?
Older or partial quotes often cover drilling and casing only, without the pump, tank, survey or connection. Compare complete systems.
Do I need a permit?
Rules vary by state; ask your driller and check with the state water agency before drilling.
How long does drilling take?
Drilling itself is often one to three days; the full installation with tank and plumbing can take longer.
Related services: Borehole drilling & pumps, Water tank installation, Water treatment & filtration
Sources
- Lands of Nigeria: cost to drill a borehole in Nigeria (2026)
- Skillland: borehole drilling costs in Nigeria, 2026
- Amapha: borehole drilling price by depth and location
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