Zoology in Nigeria: Job Opportunities, Career Growth, More

Are you passionate about wildlife and curious about the natural world? Pursuing a degree in Zoology in Nigeria offers a unique opportunity to turn that passion into a rewarding career.

This field is not just about studying animals; it's about understanding their interactions with ecosystems and the impact humans have on them.

With Nigeria's rich biodiversity, you have a front-row seat to some of the most intriguing biological studies in the world. Beyond academia, a degree in Zoology can lead to diverse career paths ranging from conservation and wildlife management to biotechnology and environmental advocacy.

Whether you're aiming to conduct groundbreaking research or play a key role in preserving the planet's biodiversity, a career in Zoology opens doors to endless possibilities.

Let’s explore what studying Zoology can offer you in terms of job opportunities and career growth.

Zoology in Nigeria: Job Opportunities, Career Growth, More

What Is Zoology?
Benefits of Studying Zoology in Nigeria
Pros and Cons of Studying Zoology in Nigeria
Career Opportunities in Zoology in Nigeria
Universities that Offer Zoology in Nigeria
Zoology University UTME Subjects Combination
Pro Tips

What Is Zoology?

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, delving into their biology, behavior, and interactions with their environments. As a zoologist, you explore everything from the smallest insects to the largest mammals, gaining insights into their anatomy, genetics, physiology, and evolution.

This field also examines how animals adapt to their habitats, how they form communities, and how they contribute to the broader ecosystem.

Studying Zoology, you uncover the intricate connections between species and their roles in maintaining ecological balance. Also, the field equips you with the knowledge to address environmental challenges and contribute to conservation efforts.

Benefits of Studying Zoology in Nigeria

Nigeria's diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush rainforests to expansive savannas, provide an incredible living laboratory for your studies. This rich biodiversity means you have the opportunity to observe and research a wide variety of species in their natural habitats, something that few other countries can offer.

Additionally, Nigerian universities are equipped with knowledgeable faculty and modern research facilities that support your academic journey and help you develop practical skills essential for a career in Zoology.

Plus, a degree in Zoology from a Nigerian institution positions you well for a range of career opportunities both locally and internationally.

The demand for skilled zoologists is growing as environmental conservation becomes increasingly important.

You could find yourself working in wildlife conservation, environmental management, academia, or even in international organizations dedicated to biodiversity.

Furthermore, the skills you acquire—such as critical thinking, data analysis, and field research—are highly transferable and valued in various scientific and environmental fields.

Pros and Cons of Studying Zoology in Nigeria

Pros:

Offers diverse ecosystems
Provides unique research opportunities
Means access to experienced faculty
Features modern research facilities
Projects growing career opportunities
Boast of cultural and ecological diversity

Cons:

Suffers from funding limitations
Shows variability in infrastructure
Experiences bureaucratic challenges
Has limited global recognition

Career Opportunities in Zoology in Nigeria

Zoology has been around for a while, although it's not a popular course. You have the following job opportunities studying the course:

Wildlife conservation: You're going to be responsible for protecting and managing wildlife populations and their habitats. You can work in organizations like the Nigerian Conservation Foundation with salaries starting from ₦100,000 per month.
Environmental consultancy: Provide expert advice on environmental management and impact assessments. Opportunities exist in firms like Environmental Accord with salaries starting from ₦150,000 per month.
Academic research and teaching: As a researcher or lecturer, you conduct studies and teach future zoologists. Universities such as the University of Lagos offer positions with salaries starting from ₦120,000 per month.
Ecotourism management: Debelop and manage sustainable tourism programs that promote wildlife conservation. Companies like Gashaka Gumti National Park offer roles with salaries starting from ₦90,000 per month.
Government agencies: Working in agencies like the Ministry of Environment, you'll create and implement policies for wildlife protection. Salaries for these positions start from ₦130,000 per month.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Work on projects focused on environmental education and species preservation. NGOs such as the Wildlife of Africa Conservation Initiative offer positions with salaries starting from ₦100,000 per month.
Zoos and aquariums: Manage animal care, breeding programs, and public education. Institutions like the National Zoological Garden of Nigeria provide roles with salaries starting from ₦80,000 per month.
Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals: Conduct research on animal biology to develop new medicines and technologies. Companies like Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. offer positions with salaries starting from ₦200,000 per month.
Environmental advocacy and policy: Influence public policies and raise awareness about conservation issues. Organizations like Friends of the Environment Nigeria offer roles with salaries starting from ₦100,000 per month.
Wildlife rehabilitation: You care for injured and orphaned animals, preparing them for release back into the wild. Rehabilitation centers like the Nigerian Primate Conservation Society offer Ypositions with salaries starting from ₦80,000 per month.

Universities that Offer Zoology in Nigeria

You can study Zoology in a federal, state, or private university in Nigeria. Some polytechnics also offer the course. The best options to consider are:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)
University of Ibadan (UI)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUSOK)
Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA)
Ekiti State University (EKSU)

Zoology University UTME Subjects Combination

To study Zoology in Nigeria:

Be a science student
Have a minimum credit pass in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology in either of WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB in not more than one sitting.
Apply for the UTME exam and register for English Language, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology and score 230+ in order to meet the cut-off mark.
Register for the post-UTME of the university you choose and score 60% and above.
Be at least 16 years at the time of application

Pro Tips

Leverage local biodiversity: Take full advantage of Nigeria's diverse ecosystems by participating in field studies and internships that provide hands-on experience with native wildlife.
Build a network: Connect with professors, researchers, and professionals in the field of Zoology. Networking can open doors to internships, research opportunities, and future job prospects.
Stay updated on conservation issues: Keep yourself informed about current environmental and conservation issues in Nigeria. This knowledge will be valuable in both your studies and future career.
Develop practical skills: Focus on gaining practical skills such as data analysis, field research techniques, and laboratory work. These skills are highly valued by employers in the field.
Seek out scholarships and grants: Look for financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and research funding opportunities specific to Zoology and environmental sciences. These can help support your education and research pprojects.

Final Thoughts

Choosing Zoology in Nigeria offers you a unique blend of academic excellence and practical experience, providing numerous job opportunities and avenues for career growth.

With Nigeria's rich biodiversity, you gain hands-on experience in diverse ecosystems, preparing you for roles in wildlife conservation, environmental consultancy, research, and more.

The demand for skilled zoologists is increasing, both locally and internationally, offering career paths in government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and private sector companies.

By pursuing a degree in Zoology, you are embarking on an exciting educational journey and positioning yourself for a fulfilling career that contributes to the understanding and preservation of our natural world.