Aka Ekene, PBA Journalism MenteeHighlights
• Financially fulfilling careers are desired by people worldwide, including in Nigeria.
• Surgeons, pilots, medical doctors, sailors, lawyers, petroleum engineers, and military officers are among the highest-paying professions in Nigeria.
• To qualify for these professions, individuals must complete specific education and certification requirements, and salary ranges vary depending on experience and specialization.
The quest for a successful and financially fulfilling career is a universal desire shared by people worldwide. Individuals desire a career that provides not just monetary compensation, but also job satisfaction and fulfillment. In Nigeria, where the need for financial stability is of utmost importance, the pursuit of high-paying professions is a common goal. This article will explore some of the most lucrative professions in Nigeria, including the required qualifications and potential earnings.
Surgeons
Surgeons are among the highest-paid professionals, not just in Nigeria but globally. This is due to the critical nature of their work, which involves performing intricate surgical procedures that require extensive knowledge and experience. A surgeon’s line of work is high risk, and any error could result in a fatality. To become a specialized surgeon in Nigeria, one must complete medical school, which could take up to fifteen years or more. The salary range for surgeons in Nigeria ranges from N630,000 to N2,500,000 per month.
Pilots
Pilots control and fly a variety of aircraft, including passenger, cargo, and helicopter planes. In addition to flying long distances, pilots are paid fairly well because passengers’ lives and safety are in their hands. To become a pilot in Nigeria, one must apply for admission to any recognized aviation school of their choice, which could take about four years to complete. The starting pay for entry-level pilots ranges from N200,000 to N500,000 monthly. Captains earn about N500,000 to N3,000,000 monthly.
Medical Doctors
Medical professionals have a variety of employment options, including working in teaching hospitals, public health organizations, private practices, and more. They could specialize in various medical fields, including Gynecology, Gastroenterology, Pathology, Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, Neurology, and others. To qualify as a medical doctor in Nigeria, one must complete a six-year course and obtain the necessary medical certification at any recognized institution. The salary range for medical doctors in Nigeria ranges from N300,000 to N1,500,000 monthly.
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Sailors
Sailors work on large haulier ships, tankers, and traveler boats, assisting with the activity and administration of these vessels. To become a sailor in Nigeria, one would need to apply to the Maritime Academy of Nigeria or any of the federation’s accredited private maritime academies. Sailors in Nigeria earn between N220,000 to N1,400,000 every month.
Lawyers
Experienced and competent lawyers are well compensated for their services as they can help clients avoid the death penalty, fines, and other forms of sentence by the court of law. To become a lawyer in Nigeria, one must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in law and then attend law school. Lawyers’ earning potential increases with experience and professionalism. The salary range for lawyers in Nigeria ranges from N150,000 to N1,330,000 per month.
Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum Engineers in Nigeria working for an Oil and Gas company, whether local or multinational, could earn approximately N12,000,000 per year. This will be largely determined by their previous experience and years of service. To become a Petroleum Engineer, one must complete a five-year course and obtain the necessary certification at any approved institution in Nigeria. The salary range for Petroleum Engineers in Nigeria ranges from N200,000 to N1,000,000 per month.
Military Officers
High-ranking military officers in the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air-force earn between N500,000 to N1,700,000 monthly.
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