Remote Work in Nigeria
Remote work in Nigeria became widely adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since become a popular work model. Before the pandemic, only specific roles allowed for remote work, but the shift to online operations created new opportunities. Jobs like content writing, digital marketing, software development, and graphic design have become common in the remote work landscape. To succeed, Nigerians need to focus on acquiring in-demand skills such as cybersecurity, software engineering, and digital marketing. Reliable internet access and continuous upskilling are also crucial. Platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, and Fiverr allow Nigerians to connect with international clients, providing opportunities to earn in foreign currencies. Remote work offers flexibility, but to excel, it’s important to start with beginner roles, internships, or volunteering. By building skills and staying updated on trends, Nigerians can thrive in this growing sector and stand out in the competitive market.
Victoria Effiong 
Working remotely in Nigeria has been a long-time practice, but with limited participation. In certain industries, this work model was limited to specific roles, and although some employees loved the idea, not everyone could implement it.
However, it was widespread in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving many businesses with no choice but to temporarily close their physical operations and transition to remote work.
During this time, while some Nigerians could work from the comfort of their homes, others were unable to do so due to the nature of their jobs.
Nigerians, known for their hard work, took it upon themselves to research how they could earn a comfortable income while working from the comfort of their own homes, and that is how remote work became widespread.
Following the pandemic, some Nigerian employers who had previously adopted the concept began implementing it in their various companies, embracing both hybrid and remote work models, driven by advancements in technology.
The COVID-19 pandemic catalysed remote work, and today it has become a flexible work model for Nigerians, especially for those who are introverted and prefer working from the comfort of their homes, whether locally or abroad.
Common Remote Jobs in Nigeria
Image source: ImageSearchMan
There are a lot of remote roles in Nigeria, but the most common ones are :
- Content Writing
- Graphic Designing
- UI/ UX Design
- Social Media Management
- Virtual Assistance
- Customer service representative
- Project management
- Business Analyst
- Digital Marketing
- Cyber Security
- Data Scientist
- Software Developer
- Online tutor
- Human Resource ( HR)
- IT Support
Sites to Find Remote Jobs
In no particular order, the following are some credible sites and platforms that you can find and apply for remote jobs:
- Upwork
- X ( formerly known as Twitter)
- Fiver
- Flexjobs
- Glassdoor
- Jobberman
- Indeed
- We Work Remotely
- Remote OK
- My JobMag
- Problogger
- Product hunt
- Well found ( formerly known as Angel List)
Key Factors to Consider as a Nigerian Before Working Remotely
Working remotely in Nigeria differs from working remotely in other countries. This is because there are things that might work out for you as someone living in Nigeria that won't work out for others, and vice versa.
To excel in your remote career as someone who resides in Nigeria, the following are key things you need to consider :
Acquire an in-demand skill: The widespread adoption of remote roles in Nigeria is increasing daily. To stand a chance and excel, it is best advised to acquire a skill that is in high demand. Skills such as cybersecurity, digital marketing, UI/UX design, artificial intelligence and machine learning, software engineering, and more are included.
Have Reliable internet access: Having a strong network connection is one of the most common challenges Nigerians face. As someone interested in working and earning from home, getting reliable internet access should be your top priority. Network providers like Starlink, Spectranet, IPNX, and Fibreone are great options for those residing in urban areas. For those in rural areas or those who can't afford Starlink and similar services, MTN, Airtel, and Glo are excellent network options.
Beginner-friendly roles: The next step to take after acquiring an in-demand skill is to apply for beginner-friendly roles. This is because it helps you gain hands-on experience while you're still learning, improving, and building a portfolio. Applying for voluntary roles, internships, or guest writing ( specifically for writers ) for various brands is also an excellent idea.
Upskilling: Your remote journey is incomplete without upskilling, as it is a key factor. While working and gaining experience, it is equally essential to upskill to stand out and excel in your industry. To reiterate, staying ahead of discoveries and trends requires continuous upskilling as technology continues to evolve.
Foreign opportunities: Many Nigerians would prefer a foreign client over a local one. This is because foreign clients pay the most. Platforms where you can get jobs from foreign clients are: LinkedIn, Upwork, Problogger, Fiverr, Product Hunt, etc.
Additionally, earning in dollars as a Nigerian gives you leverage in making more income, as the exchange rate of dollars, pounds, or euros to Naira is relatively high.
Conclusion
Working remotely in Nigeria was catalysed by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, but it has now become the new norm.
While some individuals wake up every morning trying to beat the traffic and get to their various offices, others are comfortably working from the comfort of their own homes.
The remote world will continually revolve alongside technology. To excel in this competitive market, investing in your skills, taking courses, and staying up-to-date with discoveries and industry trends are non-negotiable.
In this competitive market, acquiring in-demand skills, such as coding, UI/UX design, software engineering, and cybersecurity, positions you at the forefront of the industry, making you a unique and valuable asset.
As a beginner, it is best to start with internships, entry-level roles, or volunteering. This helps you gain hands-on experience while building your portfolio.
Another key hack that can help you grow while being visible to your potential clients is building in public. Most people feel too lazy to implement this hack. If you really want to excel in your remote journey, you shouldn't.
Job sites/platforms, such as LinkedIn, Upwork, Fiverr, Problogger, Indeed, and FlexJobs, are straightforward to navigate, even for beginners.
Another method to apply for jobs that sets you apart from the rest of the applicants and positions you in front of potential clients is cold pitching.
Nigeria is experiencing rapid growth in the remote work sector, offering numerous opportunities. For anyone interested in working from the comfort of their home, it is essential to gain the proper knowledge, skills, and do whatever it takes to stand out and win in this competitive market.
