Data Analysis vs. Accounting: Which Career Pays More in Nigeria?
In Nigeria’s evolving job market, two lucrative career paths stand out: Data Analysis and Accounting. Both offer strong earning potential, but which one pays more? And more importantly, which career offers better long-term growth in Nigeria?
In this article, we’ll compare:
✔ Salary ranges for Data Analysts vs. Accountants in Nigeria
✔ Job demand in both fields
✔ Career growth opportunities
✔ Which skill is more future-proof?
By the end, you’ll know which path aligns with your goals—and how I4Tech Integrated Services can help you get trained and certified in high-paying data analysis skills.
1. Salary Comparison: Data Analysts vs. Accountants in Nigeria
Data Analysts
- Entry-level: ₦120,000 – ₦250,000 per month
- Mid-level (3-5 years experience): ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 per month
- Senior/Lead Data Analysts: ₦700,000 – ₦1.5M+ (especially in fintech, banking, and telecoms)
Accountants
- Entry-level: ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 per month
- Mid-level (ICAN/ACCA certified): ₦200,000 – ₦400,000 per month
- Senior/Financial Managers: ₦500,000 – ₦1M+ (mostly in top firms)
Verdict: Data Analysts tend to earn higher salaries at earlier career stages, especially in tech-driven industries.
2. Job Demand & Opportunities
Data Analysis
✅ High demand in fintech, e-commerce, banking, and telecoms (e.g., Flutterwave, Jumia, MTN)
✅ Remote work opportunities (Nigerians can work for international companies)
✅ Fast career growth due to digital transformation
Accounting
✅ Stable demand (every business needs accountants)
✅ Requires certifications (ICAN, ACCA) for high-paying roles
✅ Slower salary growth unless in top firms or multinationals
Verdict: Data Analysis offers more rapid career growth and flexibility, especially in Nigeria’s booming tech sector.
3. Future-Proofing Your Career
- AI & Automation Risk: Accounting tasks (like bookkeeping) are increasingly automated, while data analysis relies on human insight.
- Global Opportunities: Data skills are in demand worldwide, making it easier to work remotely for foreign companies.
- Versatility: Data analysts can transition into data science, AI, and business intelligence roles.
Verdict: Data Analysis is more future-proof in the digital economy.
4. Which Career is Right for You?
- Choose Accounting if:
- You prefer structured, regulated work.
- You’re willing to get ICAN/ACCA certifications.
- You enjoy financial reporting and compliance.
- Choose Data Analysis if:
- You want higher entry-level pay.
- You enjoy problem-solving with data.
- You want remote work opportunities.
- You’re interested in tech, AI, and business intelligence.
Ready to Start Your Data Analysis Career?
If you want to earn more, work flexibly, and future-proof your career, data analysis is the smarter choice.
At I4Tech Integrated Services, we offer:
✔ Practical Data Analysis Training (Excel, SQL, Python, Power BI)
✔ Job-ready certification programs
✔ Career support & internship opportunities
Don’t get left behind—join the data revolution today!