How much does a ACCA Accountant earn in Nigeria?
Find out how much ACCA Accountants earn in Nigeria, including monthly and annual salaries, job description, taxes, and more.
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What does a ACCA Accountant do?
An ACCA Accountant in Nigeria is a qualified financial professional who holds the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) designation. These individuals are responsible for managing financial records, conducting audits, preparing tax returns, analyzing financial data, and offering strategic advice to organizations. ACCA Accountants work in diverse sectors, including audit firms, banks, oil and gas companies, manufacturing, and government agencies. Their international qualification assures employers of global accounting standards and ethical practice.
Average Salary of a ACCA Accountant in Nigeria
The average salary for a acca accountant in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:
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AVERAGE MONTHLY SALARY
₦ 300000 - 550000
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
₦ 3600000 - 6600000
Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.
Salary by Experience
- Entry Level (0-2 years): 180000 - 300000
- Mid Level (3-5 years): 320000 - 500000
- Senior Level (6+ years): 550000 - 900000
Salary by Education
- Bachelor’s Degree (e.g., Accounting, Finance): Typically required for entry-level accounting roles, but does not meet the full qualification of an ACCA Accountant. Salaries are usually on the lower end of the profession.
- ACCA Qualification: Recognised in Nigeria and internationally, the ACCA qualification significantly increases earning potential and career progression opportunities.
- Bachelor’s Degree + ACCA + MBA: Combining an ACCA qualification with a postgraduate degree such as an MBA can position accountants for managerial and directorial roles, commanding higher salaries.
How to Become a ACCA Accountant
Becoming an ACCA Accountant in Nigeria requires structured academic progression, professional training, and achieving global standards of accounting proficiency.
- Obtain a relevant Bachelor's degree (e.g., Accounting, Finance, Business Administration) from a recognised Nigerian university such as the University of Lagos or Obafemi Awolowo University.
- Register as a student with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
- Complete the ACCA examinations (consisting of Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional levels).
- Fulfil ACCA’s Practical Experience Requirement (36 months of relevant work experience).
- Complete the ACCA Ethics and Professional Skills Module.
- Apply for ACCA membership and obtain your certificate.
- Optional: Register as a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) for additional local recognition.
Educational Requirements
In Nigeria, prospective ACCA Accountants must first hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related fields from accredited institutions like the University of Nigeria, Nsukka or Covenant University. Direct entry routes are available for holders of ICAN ATSWA or equivalent qualifications. ACCA students are expected to register for and pass the global ACCA exams, accessible via accredited centers and remote examination options in Nigeria.
Essential Skills
Technical Skills
- International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) proficiency
- Taxation (Nigerian and international)
- Financial analysis and modeling
- Audit and assurance
- Corporate finance and budgeting
- Use of accounting software (e.g., Sage, QuickBooks, SAP)
Soft Skills
- Attention to detail
- Ethical judgment and integrity
- Analytical thinking
- Effective communication
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
Professional Certifications
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is the pre-eminent global professional body for accountants, recognised in Nigeria and represented locally by the ACCA Nigeria office in Lagos. ACCA membership distinguishes professionals in the job market and increases credibility with employers. Many Nigerian employers also value registration with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is mandatory to maintain ACCA membership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average starting salary for an ACCA Accountant in Nigeria?
The average entry-level salary for an ACCA Accountant in Nigeria ranges from 180000 to 300000 per month, depending on industry and location.
Is the ACCA qualification recognised in Nigeria?
Yes, the ACCA qualification is widely recognised in Nigeria across the private and public sectors. It is also respected internationally, giving Nigerian accountants access to global opportunities.
How long does it take to become a fully qualified ACCA Accountant in Nigeria?
Typically, it takes between three to four years to complete the ACCA exams, gain relevant work experience, and fulfill ethical training requirements.
Are there ACCA exam centres in Nigeria?
Yes, there are several ACCA-authorised exam centres in major Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Can an ACCA Accountant work outside Nigeria?
Yes, the ACCA qualification is global, allowing Nigerian ACCA Accountants to pursue careers in the UK, Canada, the Middle East, and many other countries.
Page last updated: May 28, 2026