Captive and wild specimens have an approximate life span of 15 years. Nile Monitors are not beginner herps. They normally have a nasty temperament that does not tame down. Although each animal is different most will carry a nasty disposition all of their life. Niles can inflict serious wounds to an inexperienced handler.
Niles grow excessively large and have specialized requirements.
They should be left to the experienced hobbyist that can provide proper care and handling. Small Niles can be kept in a small terrarium, although adults and sub-adults will need custom housing that provides a water area large enough for swimming and deep enough for full submersion of the animal. Small animals can be kept on aspen, vermiculite, lizard litters, and aquarium gravel and water combinations. They will dig though. Make sure that the substrate, regardless of its type, can be changed easily and that in between changes, feces can be removed.