In spite of Nigeria’s disconcerting poverty rate, a significant number of Nigerians earn decent remuneration from their chosen fields. Some of these professions earn more than millions, and as a result, they are pretty competitive to access.
These high-paying jobs are influenced by education (course of study, certification, etc.), skills and experience. The jobs cut across multinationals, public and private companies, as well as businesses. In addition to offering exciting perks and benefits, they also pay workers attractive wages.
In this post, you will learn about the most financially rewarding jobs in Nigeria, how much they pay and how you can secure them.
Petroleum Engineer – ₦1,791,000
Pilot – ₦1,500,000
Anesthesiologist – ₦1,058,454
Cardiologist – ₦1,043,429
Obstetrician Gynaecologist – ₦924,454
Physician Oncologist – ₦907,962
Psychiatrist – ₦868,504
Orthopaedic Surgeon – ₦833,333
Engineering Manager – ₦824,000
Medical Doctor – ₦800,000
Full Stack Developer – ₦727,500
Construction Manager – ₦715,500
Senior Software Engineer – ₦682,500
Marketing Manager – ₦477,000
Product Manager – ₦473,000
Solutions Architect – ₦440,392
Project Manager – ₦434,000
DevOps Engineer – ₦430,000
Architect – ₦428,570
Investment Banker – ₦404,500
Data Scientist – ₦401,500
Mechanical Engineer – ₦352,500
Sailor – ₦263,000
Civil Engineer – ₦259,500
Social Media Influencer – ₦225,000
Notes:
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1. Petroleum Engineer
How Much Do Petroleum Engineers Earn?
Petroleum engineers earn a median of ₦1,791,000
What is the Role of a Petroleum Engineer?
Given that Nigeria is an oil-producing country, it is of no surprise that petroleum engineers are some of the highest-earning professionals in the country. A petroleum engineer designs and develops methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the surface of the Earth.
It is the duty of a petroleum engineer to determine how much oil and gas is in a reservoir, what method is most suitable for extraction and the duration for which it would last.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer
As stated earlier, Nigeria’s membership of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries is a huge contributor to the high remuneration of petroleum engineers. It is for this reason, also, that the field is highly competitive to get into. To become a petroleum engineer, you would undergo a five-year course at any approved institution in the country and acquire appropriate certification.
Check out the latest Oil and Gas Jobs in Nigeria
2. Pilot
How Much Do Pilots Earn?
Pilots command a median salary of about ₦1,500,000 per month.
What is the Role of a Pilot?
A pilot is a trained professional responsible for operating and controlling aircraft, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo. Pilots are essential in the aviation industry. Their primary role is to navigate the aircraft, monitor weather conditions, communicate with air traffic control, and ensure that the flight runs smoothly from takeoff to landing.
How to Become a Pilot
To become a pilot in Nigeria, start with a senior secondary school education, doing well, particularly in subjects like Mathematics and Physics. While a degree isn’t required to be a pilot, it can be helpful.
Enrol in a licensed flight school recognised by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), such as the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT). After completing the required training and flight hours, you will earn a Private Pilot License (PPL), followed by a Commercial Pilot License if you wish to fly professionally.
Pilots must also pass medical exams and may need additional certifications based on the type of aircraft they wish to operate.
3. Anesthesiologist
How Much Do Anesthesiologists Earn?
The median salary of an anesthesiologist is ₦1,058,454.
What is the Role of an Anesthesiologist?
An anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who specialises in administering anaesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or medical procedures. Their primary role is to ensure the patient's comfort and safety by managing pain, controlling vital functions, and preventing any adverse reactions during procedures.
How to Become an Anesthesiologist
Starting a career as an anesthesiologist in Nigeria begins with earning a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS), which takes about six years. Afterwards, complete a one-year internship at any reputed teaching hospital. Register with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to practice as a general doctor.
After this, pursue a specialised residency program in anesthesiology for 4-6 years to gain in-depth knowledge of anaesthesia and critical care. Upon completion, pass the Fellowship of the West African College of Surgeons (FWACS) or NNPMCN exams to officially qualify as an anesthesiologist in Nigeria.
4. Cardiologist
How Much Do Cardiologists Earn?
The median salary for cardiologists is ₦1,043,429 per month.
What is the Role Of a Cardiologist?
A cardiologist diagnoses and treats heart-related conditions, such as heart attacks, arrhythmias, and hypertension. They perform tests, offer treatments, and provide guidance on preventing heart disease.
How to Become a Cardiologist
Start with a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS), followed by a general internship. After registering with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), complete a specialised residency in cardiology and take professional exams to become a certified cardiologist.
5. Obstetrician Gynecologist
How Much Do Obstetrician Gynecologists Earn?
The average salary of an obstetrician-gynaecologist ranges from ₦924,454.
What is the Role of an Obstetrician Gynecologist?
Obstetrician gynecologists specialize in women’s reproductive health, providing care for pregnancy, childbirth, and the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the female reproductive system. They perform surgeries, assist with prenatal and postnatal care, and manage reproductive health concerns such as infertility, menopause, and gynecological cancers.
How to Become an Obstetrician Gynecologist
Start with a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS), followed by a one-year internship. After registration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), pursue a specialized residency in obstetrics and gynecology that typically lasts 4-6 years. After completing the residency, pass relevant exams to become a certified obstetrician-gynecologist in Nigeria.
6. Oncologist
How Much Do Oncologists Earn?
Oncology specialists earn an average of ₦907,962 a month.
What is the Role of an Oncologist?
An oncologist is a specialist who treats malignant growth (cancer) and gives clinical consideration to an individual diagnosed with the disease. The field of oncology has three significant zones: clinical, surgical, and radiation.
How to Become an Oncologist
Oncology is a specialized branch of medicine that requires additional research work to the seven years it takes to bag the MBBS in Nigeria.
7. Psychiatrist
How Much Do Psychiatrists Earn?
₦868,504 per month.
What is the Role of a Psychiatrist?
Psychiatrists survey the entirety of your psychological and physical indications. They make an analysis and work with you to build up an administration plan for your treatment and recuperation. They also give mental treatment, recommend prescriptions and do techniques, for example, electroconvulsive procedure.
How to Become a Psychiatrist in Nigeria
Psychiatry is a branch of medicine. So, all the requirements to earn an MBBS apply as well.
8. Orthopaedic Surgeon
How Much Do Orthopaedic Surgeons Earn?
The median salary of orthopaedic surgeons in Nigeria is ₦833,333.
What is the Role of Orthopaedic Surgeons?
An orthopaedic surgeon performs surgical procedures to repair injuries or correct deformities, such as joint replacements, spinal surgeries, or ligament repairs. They evaluate patients through physical examinations, imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs, and other diagnostic tools to determine the best course of treatment. In addition to surgery, orthopedic surgeons often recommend non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle adjustments to support recovery and long-term health.
How to Become an Orthopaedic Surgeon
After earning your MBBS degree, the journey to becoming a surgeon in Nigeria begins with registration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), followed by a one-year internship at a recognised hospital. Nigerian graduates must then complete the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or obtain an exemption.
To specialise in surgery, candidates must pass the primary examination of either the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) or the Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) and secure a training position at an accredited hospital.
Regarding residency training, it is divided into junior and senior residency. The 18-month junior residency involves rotations across subspecialties like general surgery, trauma surgery, and orthopedics, with evaluations including logbooks and examinations.
Senior Residency, lasting 18-48 months depending on the subspecialty, focuses on mastering surgical skills under mentorship and gaining independence in decision-making. The journey concludes with passing the Part II examinations of WACS or NPMCN, qualifying a candidate as a certified surgeon ready for independent practice or further specialization.
Check out the latest Medical Jobs in Nigeria today
9. Engineering Manager
How Much Do Engineering Managers Earn?
The salary range is ₦824,000 per month
What is the Role of an Engineering Manager?
An Engineering Manager is a professional responsible for leading and managing a team of engineers within an organisation. Their primary role is to ensure the successful delivery of engineering projects by combining technical expertise with leadership and organisational skills. They act as a bridge between technical teams and upper management, ensuring alignment between the organisation's goals and the engineering team's efforts.
How to Become an Engineering Manager
If you are interested in becoming an engineering manager in Nigeria, you would typically need to study an engineering discipline at an institution approved by the National Universities Commission. The average length of study for an engineering degree is five years at the university, followed by a year each for industrial training and National Youth Service.
Engineering management is a competitive and multidisciplinary field, so you must excel in your undergraduate certificate and other relevant entrance examinations. Additionally, gaining relevant experience as an engineer and pursuing advanced studies, such as a master's degree, can help you secure a juicy position.
Check out the latest engineering jobs in Nigeria now
10. Medical Doctor
How Much Do Medical Doctors Earn?
₦800,000 per month (depending on your specialisation)
What is the Role of a Medical Doctor?
Perhaps the most common description of a doctor is a person who saves lives. While this is not untrue, it does not paint the whole picture. A doctor is a medical practitioner who applies the principles and procedures of medicine to prevent, diagnose, care for and treat patients with illness, disease and injury and to maintain physical and mental health.
How to Become a Doctor
If you want to practice medicine in Nigeria, you must study medicine at any accredited university in Nigeria for six years, do a year of housemanship and be inducted.
11. Full Stack Developer
How Much Do Full Stack Developers Earn?
A full-stack developer averages at least ₦727,500 monthly.
What is the Role of a Full Stack Developer?
A full-stack developer is proficient in both front-end and back-end development, allowing them to build and maintain complete web applications. They work with databases, servers, and user interfaces to create seamless user experiences.
How to Become a Full Stack Developer
Obtain a degree in Computer Science or a related field. Learn both front-end (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and back-end technologies (Node.js, Python, Ruby). Build a portfolio of projects and gain experience through internships or freelancing to enter the full-stack development field.
Check out the latest full stack developer jobs in Lagos
12. Construction Manager
How Much Do Construction Managers Earn?
Construction Managers earn between ₦715,500 per month.
What is the Role of a Construction Manager?
A Construction Manager is a professional who oversees and coordinates construction projects from start to finish. They are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to the specified quality and safety standards. Construction managers work closely with architects, engineers, and clients to interpret project plans and requirements, making critical decisions to keep the project on track.
How to Become a Construction Manager
Becoming a Construction Manager in Nigeria requires a strong foundation in construction and several years of practical experience in the industry. First, you need to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Building Technology, or a related field from an accredited institution. This typically takes about four to five years, depending on the program. After graduation, you will need to gain hands-on experience by working on various construction projects, often starting as a site engineer, project coordinator, or in similar roles.
Advancing to the role of a construction manager typically takes 5-10 years, depending on your skill development, leadership abilities, and experience managing complex projects.
Check out the latest Building and Construction Jobs in Nigeria
13. Senior Software Engineer
How Much Do Senior Software Engineers Earn?
The salary range is ₦682,500 per month
What is the Role of a Senior Software Engineer?
A Senior Software Engineer is an experienced professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software systems. They lead technical projects, make architectural decisions, and ensure the scalability and performance of applications. They write and debug code, collaborate with other teams to meet business requirements, and ensure software solutions are of high quality.
Senior engineers also work closely with product managers to define project goals, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within scope. Additionally, they continuously seek improvements in processes and systems.
How to Become a Senior Software Engineer
If you wish to become a Senior Software Engineer in Nigeria, it requires a strong foundation in software development and several years of experience in the field. First, you need to pursue a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution. This typically takes about four years.
After graduation, you'll need to gain hands-on experience by working on various software development projects, usually starting as a junior or mid-level software engineer. Over the next several years, you'll build expertise in areas like coding, system design, and problem-solving. Advancing to a senior role typically takes 5-8 years, depending on your skill development and career growth.
Check out the latest aviation jobs in Nigeria now
14. Marketing Manager
How Much Do Marketing Managers Make?
In our 2025 job search report, marketing emerged as the top field in Nigeria, accounting for 22% of all job openings. This underscores the demand for professionals in the field. Professionals in this field averages ₦477,000. At senior level, they earn as much as N600,000 - N950,000 monthly.
What is the Role of a Marketing Manager?
A marketing manager develops strategies to promote products or services, ensuring they reach the target audience effectively. They manage campaigns, analyze market trends, and oversee the marketing team to achieve business growth.
How to Become a Marketing Manager
Obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field. Gain experience through entry-level marketing roles and internships. Further qualifications, such as an MBA or certifications in digital marketing, can enhance career prospects.
Check out the latest marketing jobs in Lagos
15. Product Managers
How Much Do Product Managers Earn?
Product managers in Nigeria earn competitive salaries with skilled professionals making around ₦473,000 monthly.
What is the Role of a Product Manager?
A product manager is responsible for overseeing the development and success of a product from conception to launch. They work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, engineering, and sales, to define product goals, create roadmaps, and prioritize features based on customer needs and business objectives. Their role is to ensure that the product meets market demands, stays within budget, and is delivered on time, while continuously analyzing and optimizing the product's performance.
How to Become a Product Manager
To become a product manager in Nigeria, start by earning a degree in business, marketing, computer science, or a related field. Gaining experience in project management, business analysis, or tech is beneficial. You can then pursue specific product management certifications.
Note that networking within the tech and business community and applying for entry-level roles can help you gain experience and progress in the field.
Check out the latest product manager jobs in Nigeria
16. Solutions Architect
How Much Do Solutions Architects Earn?
Solutions Architects in Nigeria earn a median salary of ₦440,392 each month.
What is the Role of a Solutions Architect?
A solutions architect is a professional responsible for designing and implementing complex technological systems and solutions to meet specific business needs. They work closely with clients, stakeholders, and technical teams to understand the challenges and objectives of a project, then create a blueprint that outlines how various technologies and systems will work together to achieve the desired outcomes.
How to Become a Solutions Architect
Becoming a solutions architect in Nigeria typically starts with obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field. After that, gaining experience in software development, system administration, or IT infrastructure is crucial, as most solutions architects have a background in these areas.
You can pursue certifications in architecture frameworks. You may also want to gain experience with cloud platforms, enterprise architecture, and project management, as these are key skills for a solutions architect.
Check out the latest solutions architect jobs in Nigeria now
17. Project Manager
How Much Do Project Managers Earn?
₦434,000 per month
What is the Role of a Project Manager?
A project manager coordinates the creation, endorsement of project plans while guaranteeing these activities are on schedule, within the spending plan, and inside the scope.
How to Become a Project Manager
If you want to become a project manager in Nigeria, you will need a degree in project management or a certificate from The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and the Project Management Institute (PMI)
Check out the latest project manager jobs in Nigeria now
18. DevOps Engineer
How Much Do DevOps Engineer Earn?
The monthly remuneration for this role is ₦430,000.
What is the Role of a DevOps Engineer?
A DevOps engineer bridges the gap between software development and IT operations, ensuring seamless integration and automation of processes. They manage continuous delivery pipelines and monitor system performance to enhance efficiency.
How to Become a DevOps Engineer
Earn a degree in Computer Science, IT, or Engineering. Gain experience in software development, system administration, and cloud platforms. Certifications in tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and AWS can improve your skills and job prospects in DevOps.
Check out the latest devops jobs in Nigeria
19. Architect
How Much Do Architects Earn?
₦428,570 per month.
What is the Role of an Architect?
Architects make plans for new development undertakings, changes and redevelopments. They utilize their expert development information and elevated level attracting aptitudes to plan structures that are practical, sheltered, feasible and pleasant to the eyes.
How to Become an Architect
A degree or Diploma in Architecture from any ARCON/NIA and NUC accredited institution of higher learning.
Check out the latest architect jobs in Abuja or choose jobs for architect jobs in Lagos now
20. Investment Banker
How Much Do Investment Bankers Earn?
The financial sector is well known for its attractive salaries; investment and private banking take it a step higher. The monthly take-home of an investment banker is ₦404,500 per month.
What is the Role of an Investment Banker?
Investment bankers act as middlemen to governments, companies and agencies. They help them raise funds by issuing stocks and securing loans.
Basically, they are charged with raising capital investments. As an investment banker, you can find employment in hedge funds, private, commercial and investment banks, asset management agencies, consulting firms and so on
How to Become an Investment Banker
The interesting thing about investment banking is that there is no specific degree requirement for it. In other words, regardless of the course of your study, you can still pursue a career as an investment banker.
Check out the latest banking Jobs in Lagos now
21. Data Scientists
How Much Do Data Scientists Earn?
An entry-level data scientist commands a salary range of ₦401,500 per month.
What is the Role of a Data Scientist?
A data scientist analyses complex data to help businesses make informed decisions. They use statistical methods, machine learning, and data visualisation tools to extract insights from large datasets, providing actionable recommendations for strategy and improvement.
How to Become a Data Scientist
Start with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field. Gain experience in data analysis and programming languages like Python or R. Pursue certifications in machine learning or data science to enhance skills, and stay updated with industry trends.
Check out the latest data jobs in Nigeria now
22. Mechanical Engineer
How Much Do Mechanical Engineers Earn?
A mechanical engineer earns a median salary of ₦352,500 monthly.
What is the Role of a Mechanical Engineer?
Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing, developing, building, and testing. Their expertise encompasses anything that moves, from small components to complex machines, and even the human body. Their work is essential in shaping the technology and infrastructure that power our modern world.
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
In order to be a practising mechanical engineer, you must earn a degree or diploma in engineering from an accredited institution.
Check out the latest mechanical engineering jobs in Nigeria
23. Sailor
How Much Do Sailors Earn?
₦263,000 per month.
What is the Role of a Sailor?
A sailor is someone who works on traveller boats, tankers, and big haulier ships, exploring maritime vessels and helping with the support, activity, and administration of these vessels.
How to Become a Sailor in Nigeria
If you are interested in sailing, you can get basic training from the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron or any of the accredited private maritime academies scattered across the country.
Check out the latest maritime jobs in Lagos
24. Civil Engineer
How Much Do Civil Engineers Earn?
₦259,500
What is the Role of a Civil Engineer?
Civil engineers create, improve and secure the environment. They design, plan and supervise the development and upkeep of building structures and frameworks, for example, streets, railroads, air terminals, bridges, harbours, dams, water system ventures, power plants, and water and sewerage systems. They likewise plan and assemble tall structures and enormous structures that can withstand every single climate condition.
How to Become a Civil Engineer
To become a practising mechanical engineer in Nigeria, you must earn a degree or diploma from an accredited institution.
Conclusion
While these jobs pay generously across the board, it is important to note that your level of education, years of experience, level of productivity, among other factors, affect how much you are paid.
25. Social Media Influencer
How Much Do Social Media Influencers Earn?
Since social media influencers earn a large share of their income through sponsored posts, there is no fixed amount. However, the median income of social median influencers in Nigeria is ₦225,000.
What is the Role of a Social Media Influencer?
Social media influences are a product of 21st Century technological advancement. An influencer is a person who has the power to impact the purchasing decisions of others because of his or her authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with his or her audience.
How to Become a Social Media Influencer
Also, find out the pay packages of employees across various industries and agencies on Mysalaryscale
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