According to ItNewsAfrica, Nigeria is one of the wealthiest countries on the African continent. In terms of population, the country ranks first in Africa, and its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is 410 billion dollars. Nevertheless, if you live there or want to move there, you are probably faced with the challenge of finding a job. And given the problems of some local entrepreneurs, caused by the global crisis of the coronavirus pandemic, this issue is more prevalent now than ever. In this article, we have selected the best-paying jobs in Nigeria to show you the up-close career opportunities and help you choose your vocation.
10 Best Fields for Starting a New Career in Nigeria
Whether you are an ex-student that is just starting their career or an expert who wants to change their occupation, our list of the best jobs in Nigeria will come in handy. Check out the options below and choose the profession that speaks to your heart!
1.Medicine
This sector is one of the most prestigious and respected all over the world (including Nigeria). According to recent research by Indeed, doctors around the world earn thousands of dollars saving lives. We researched the salaries of these specialists in Nigeria, taking the situation in Lagos as an example:
● Cardiologists are among the highest-paid doctors — their average monthly income is 743,000 NGN (about $1,907);
● As for the surgeon’s salary, it starts from 583,000 NGN ($1,490).
● Plastic surgeons earn 827,000 NGN ($2,134) and above.
That is about three times the average wage, and that means that doctors in Nigeria are financially quite comfortable. However, you should remember that these vacancies require increased responsibility, wariness, and education.
2.Law
Law is another option for a lucrative career, and this area is a dream for many people. High salaries, career opportunities, and interesting tasks are what attract job seekers to this profession. You can be a legal officer, lawyer, or bailiff, but of course you won’t get there without special skills and good education. Those candidates who meet all the criteria can expect a salary of 180,000 NGN (approximately $460) and higher.
3.Information technology
IT is the most diverse and widespread field, providing the best careers in Nigeria for a new generation of candidates. It is constantly evolving, attracting wealthy investors, and is definitely one of the most prestigious industries.
● An average Nigerian web developer earns 350,000 NGN ($900) per month, and this salary is quite high both for a beginner and for a pro. Many
companies now need their own website, because it is the most important and modern tool for finding an audience and maintaining the interest of customers. Many people just do not trust businesses that do not have their own internet page, whether it is a profile on social networks or a large website. Programmers who develop mobile applications receive even more money because, with so many smartphones, their work is in demand more than ever before. Even entry-level developers can get competitive salaries if they are responsible and pay attention to details.
● Data analyst is another well-paid online job in Nigeria. The monthly income starts at 350,000 NGN ($900) per month, but in large companies, these specialists can also expect a salary of 1,000,000 NGN ($2,560). They work with big data and analyze information for clients to help them grow and make the right decisions. Most major market players now hire data analysts. The most valuable qualities for candidates seeking work in this field are their experience and ability to process information.
● QA Software/game testers earn 145,000 NGN ($372) per month or more. Finding errors and bugs in programs, games, and applications is rather
routine but is interesting and well-paying.
One more great thing about working in IT is that you can work without even having to come to the office. If this sphere does not interest you, but you want to work remotely, read this article www.getcoverletter.com/blog/work-home-jobs-nigeria/ to find out how else you can work from home.
Another advantage of working in IT is that special education is not a prerequisite. If candidates do not have a master’s degree but have extensive experience, examples of successful projects, and a desire to study and acquire new skills, even serious companies will be glad to see their CV.
4. Design
If you know how to work with colors, textures, shapes, and fonts, try your hand at design. There are many specific branches of this industry: package design, graphic design, web design, UX/UI design, and more. Today, any business, whether it is a small startup or a big corporation, needs logos, as well as beautiful and responsive websites and well-branded products. That is why qualified designers are worth their weight in gold! The current average salary in this field starts from 200,000 NGN (approximately $513). The exact amount will depend on the type of work and the scope of the hiring company.
5. Art and entertainment
This is quite an old and popular door to success — many people want to be actors, musicians, and artists. However, with the advent of the Internet and the popularization of social networks, the entertainment industry has found its second wind. Of course, we are talking about bloggers and media influencers who create content, communicate with their subscribers, and collaborate with brands. Many companies are now hiring entire teams of people to create visual content and promote the brand name among a young audience.
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6. Marketing
Just as a good marketer or sales manager can help a company grow and increase profits, a bad one can ruin its reputation. So you will need to have really strong skills to succeed. Many Nigerian companies will be happy to hire an experienced and creative marketing manager who is ready to grow and develop with them. The average salary here is 250,000 NGN ($640) and above.
7. Aviation
The salaries of these workers are worth attention. Co-pilots, captains, ticketing officers, aircraft technicians, flight attendants all deal with airplanes and aviation. Wages in this field start at 300,000 NGN ($770), but sometimes this amount can rise into millions. Of course, this work requires special training and education, but the result is worth it, especially, if you have always dreamed of conquering the sky.
8. Engineering
This is also a very wide-ranging field. Engineers are needed almost everywhere, and not just in the oil, chemical, and mechanical industries. Experts in this field make a big contribution to the economy of Nigeria because they bring profits. Salaries here
depend on the type of tasks but rarely drop below 160,000 NGN ($413). And even entry-level employees can earn good money in this industry.
- Automation Engineer — 195,000 NGN ($503);
- Broadcast Engineer — 203,000 NGN ($524);
- Mechanical and Electrical Engineer — 206,000 NGN ($531).
9. Foreign language teachers
Despite the fact that Nigeria is located in West Africa, the official language of the country is English. However, languages such as French, German, and Chinese are also very popular with different locals within the country. Private tutoring or working for a language course company can bring you a good profit.
10. Pharmacy
According to YouthTime, this is one of the most popular disciplines studied by people in universities and colleges all over the world. Salaries in this field depend on employees’ experience but start at 170,000 NGN ($436).
11. Finance
Working at a bank or an accounting firm will allow you to have a decent and comfortable life.
- Credit assistants in Nigeria earn from 175,000 NGN ($436);
- Bank assistants receive a salary that starts at 180,000 ($460).
Bonus: one more well-paid job is Human Resources Manager (HR). Wages here start from 169,000 NGN ($433) per month.
Hopefully, this list and the provided links can help you to choose the area in which you want to begin your career. Remember not to just look for a high paying job. Rather try to find a job that will allow you to use all your potential. This will help you to achieve both professional realization and wealthy life.