Nigeria is the most populated country on the African continent and is seen as a regional power. It has been inhabited since 9,000 BCE though the modern state only emerged in 1914. During the time of colonialism the British united several regions which included independent tribes and cultures. This unification created a melting pot of cultures, religions, languages and ethnicities.
Nigeria Today
The nation is influenced by religions including Islam and Christianity, a variety of indigenous beliefs as well as its long history of slavery and colonialism. This diversity has led to a lot of turbulence and conflict and still today the government faces the challenge to prevent Nigeria from breaking apart along ethnic and religious lines. Nevertheless, Nigeria is a forward looking and progressive nation currently experiencing the longest period of civilan rule since independence. Understanding this diverse culture is the key to successfully doing business in Nigeria.
Nigerian Culture - Key Concepts and Values
Ethnic Groups – More than 250 ethnic groups with different languages and cultural costumes can be found in Nigeria. The largest ethnic groups are the Hausa and Fulani, which adhere to Islam and the Yoruba and Igbo (Ibo), which predominantly adhere to Christianity. Traditional religious beliefs often mix within these two religions.
Family – Family relations play a very important role in Nigerian culture. Generally, families in Nigeria have a patriarchical structure. Also polygamy amongst members of the Muslim community is not uncommon. Family bonds help to achieve social status while nepotism is a major issue in Nigeria even though it is illegal.
Time – The perception of time in Nigeria differs from that in the West as everything tends to move at a more relaxed pace. An individual’s needs are considered more important than sticking to a schedule. Keep this in mind and be flexible when doing business in Nigeria.
Communication Styles – Communication styles in Nigeria may vary significantly depending on the individual’s cultural ancestry. Nigerians from the south usually speak in a direct way and use a louder voice. Many of the people from the south-western part of Nigeria make use of proverbs and sayings which makes their communication style more indirect. Many Nigerians use gestures and facial expressions of empathy when communicating.
Doing Business in Nigeria
After an unsettled period of military rule, colonialism and several civil wars, Nigeria is currently ruled by a democratic government. Since the 1960s Nigeria’s economy has focussed on oil production and export rather than agriculture. The former British colony is one of the world's largest oil producersand and attracts a lot of foreign business and trade. However, it has been struggling with political instability, corruption and poor infrastructure. In 2008, the Nigerian government therefore began pursuing reforms: the banking system was modernised and regional disputes solved. The GDP has been on the rise ever since and the government announced plans to increase transparency and diversify economic growth. This period of reform is paving the way for increased business and investment opportunities but in order to be successful doing business in Nigeria, one must first understand Nigerian business culture and etiquette.
Nigerian Business Part 1 - Working in Nigeria: Working practices in Nigeria
Structure and hierarchy in Nigerian companies
Business relationships in Nigeria
Nigerian Business Part 2 - Doing Business in Nigeria: Business practices in Nigeria
Nigerian Business Etiquette (Do’s and Don’ts)
DO keep in mind that even though officially illegal, favouritism and nepotism is still a common practice in Nigeria.
DO remember that Nigeria has a long history of colonial and military suppression. This effects on Nigerian business culture and makes it conservative. Be formal, punctual and dress smartly.
DO keep in mind that Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi cultural country. Always find out which religion or culture the people you are working with belong to.
DON’T hold eye-contact for too long while talking to somebody as this might be misinterpreted as a threat. Instead try to keep your eyes at forehead or shoulder level.
DON’T confront your Nigerian co-workers in public when you have an issue with them. Do so directly and openly but in a private setting so as to not undermine their credibility.
DON’T be irritated when Nigerians insist on being addressed with all their titles. People are quite class conscious which relates back to the history of suppression during slavery and colonialism.
Nigerian Culture Quiz - True or False
1. If you hear a hissing or kissing sound made by someone on the streets, you can interpret this as an offense.
2. It is considered impolite to receive something with the left hand.
3. Nigerians are very title conscious and the most sought-after title is doctor.
4. English is the common language used in business.
5. Nigerians like to schedule early breakfast business meetings.
Nigerian Culture Quiz - Answers
1. False. This is purely a frequently used beckoning call.
2. True. Always use the right hand or both to accept something that is handed over to you.
3. False. The most sought-after title is chief.
4. True. Nevertheless avoid using slang or idioms.
5. False. In Nigeria, business always starts after breakfast.
Nigeria Today
The nation is influenced by religions including Islam and Christianity, a variety of indigenous beliefs as well as its long history of slavery and colonialism. This diversity has led to a lot of turbulence and conflict and still today the government faces the challenge to prevent Nigeria from breaking apart along ethnic and religious lines. Nevertheless, Nigeria is a forward looking and progressive nation currently experiencing the longest period of civilan rule since independence. Understanding this diverse culture is the key to successfully doing business in Nigeria.
Nigerian Culture - Key Concepts and Values
Ethnic Groups – More than 250 ethnic groups with different languages and cultural costumes can be found in Nigeria. The largest ethnic groups are the Hausa and Fulani, which adhere to Islam and the Yoruba and Igbo (Ibo), which predominantly adhere to Christianity. Traditional religious beliefs often mix within these two religions.
Family – Family relations play a very important role in Nigerian culture. Generally, families in Nigeria have a patriarchical structure. Also polygamy amongst members of the Muslim community is not uncommon. Family bonds help to achieve social status while nepotism is a major issue in Nigeria even though it is illegal.
Time – The perception of time in Nigeria differs from that in the West as everything tends to move at a more relaxed pace. An individual’s needs are considered more important than sticking to a schedule. Keep this in mind and be flexible when doing business in Nigeria.
Communication Styles – Communication styles in Nigeria may vary significantly depending on the individual’s cultural ancestry. Nigerians from the south usually speak in a direct way and use a louder voice. Many of the people from the south-western part of Nigeria make use of proverbs and sayings which makes their communication style more indirect. Many Nigerians use gestures and facial expressions of empathy when communicating.
Doing Business in Nigeria
After an unsettled period of military rule, colonialism and several civil wars, Nigeria is currently ruled by a democratic government. Since the 1960s Nigeria’s economy has focussed on oil production and export rather than agriculture. The former British colony is one of the world's largest oil producersand and attracts a lot of foreign business and trade. However, it has been struggling with political instability, corruption and poor infrastructure. In 2008, the Nigerian government therefore began pursuing reforms: the banking system was modernised and regional disputes solved. The GDP has been on the rise ever since and the government announced plans to increase transparency and diversify economic growth. This period of reform is paving the way for increased business and investment opportunities but in order to be successful doing business in Nigeria, one must first understand Nigerian business culture and etiquette.
Nigerian Business Part 1 - Working in Nigeria: Working practices in Nigeria
Structure and hierarchy in Nigerian companies
Business relationships in Nigeria
Nigerian Business Part 2 - Doing Business in Nigeria: Business practices in Nigeria
Nigerian Business Etiquette (Do’s and Don’ts)
DO keep in mind that even though officially illegal, favouritism and nepotism is still a common practice in Nigeria.
DO remember that Nigeria has a long history of colonial and military suppression. This effects on Nigerian business culture and makes it conservative. Be formal, punctual and dress smartly.
DO keep in mind that Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi cultural country. Always find out which religion or culture the people you are working with belong to.
DON’T hold eye-contact for too long while talking to somebody as this might be misinterpreted as a threat. Instead try to keep your eyes at forehead or shoulder level.
DON’T confront your Nigerian co-workers in public when you have an issue with them. Do so directly and openly but in a private setting so as to not undermine their credibility.
DON’T be irritated when Nigerians insist on being addressed with all their titles. People are quite class conscious which relates back to the history of suppression during slavery and colonialism.
Nigerian Culture Quiz - True or False
1. If you hear a hissing or kissing sound made by someone on the streets, you can interpret this as an offense.
2. It is considered impolite to receive something with the left hand.
3. Nigerians are very title conscious and the most sought-after title is doctor.
4. English is the common language used in business.
5. Nigerians like to schedule early breakfast business meetings.
Nigerian Culture Quiz - Answers
1. False. This is purely a frequently used beckoning call.
2. True. Always use the right hand or both to accept something that is handed over to you.
3. False. The most sought-after title is chief.
4. True. Nevertheless avoid using slang or idioms.
5. False. In Nigeria, business always starts after breakfast.
