As the global community continues to expand conversations around data analysis, predictive intelligence, and evidence-based decision-making, a Nigerian data analyst and finance professional, Martha O. Udezi, has stressed the importance of using analytical tools to solve business problems and improve organisational performance across sectors.

Speaking on the growing relevance of data analytics in modern institutions, Udezi in interview with our correspondent said businesses and financial organisations can no longer rely solely on traditional operational methods if they intend to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

“Data analysis is no longer just a support function. It is gradually becoming the foundation for how organizations make decisions, understand customer behaviour, manage risks, and improve long-term performance,” she said.

Udezi, who currently works remotely as a Data Analyst Consultant at Zenafri Ltd, noted that the increasing adoption of digital platforms across education, finance, and business sectors has created a stronger demand for professionals capable of interpreting data and converting insights into measurable results.

“At Zenafri, I have worked with datasets focused on user engagement, learner behaviour, and digital education performance. What we are seeing globally is that organisations now want insights that can directly improve user experience and product effectiveness,” she added.

According to her, data analytics has also become critical in understanding behavioural trends, predicting outcomes, and helping institutions make proactive rather than reactive decisions.

“Predictive analysis helps organisations identify patterns before they become problems. Whether it is customer retention, loan default risks, or learning outcomes, data gives businesses the opportunity to act earlier and more strategically,” she explained.
Before moving deeper into analytics and statistical modelling, Udezi worked as a Credit Analyst for one of the leading banks in Nigeria. United Bank for Africa (UBA), where she was involved in credit risk assessments, financial evaluations, and loan portfolio monitoring.

Reflecting on her banking experience, she said the finance industry’s growing dependence on analytics influenced her decision to strengthen her technical and statistical background.

“My experience in banking exposed me to how important data is in financial decision-making. Credit analysis itself is deeply rooted in analytics because every lending decision depends on interpreting trends, risks, and financial behaviour accurately,” she said.

During her time at UBA, she contributed to credit monitoring processes that helped reduce non-performing loans at branch level through improved risk assessment and early warning systems.

She explained that her transition into advanced analytics was driven by a desire to combine finance knowledge with statistical and technological skills capable of addressing more complex business challenges.

“I wanted to go beyond conventional reporting and understand how data can be used to build predictive models, optimise systems, and support strategic growth. That interest pushed me toward Applied Statistics and Decision Analytics,” she stated.

Udezi is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Applied Statistics and Decision Analytics at Western Illinois University after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Ghana Technology University College.

With experience using tools such as Python, SQL, R, Excel, Tableau, and Power BI, she said the future of work would increasingly favour professionals who possess both analytical thinking and industry-specific knowledge.

“The future belongs to people who can understand data and also understand the business problems behind the numbers.
Technical skills alone are not enough. Organisations need professionals who can translate insights into real solutions,” she said.

She also encouraged young professionals interested in analytics to remain adaptable and committed to continuous learning as technology continues to evolve globally.

“Data analytics is a constantly changing field. The tools will evolve, industries will change, but the ability to think critically, interpret information, and solve problems will always remain valuable,” Udezi added