Recruitment processes in Nigeria: what candidates should expect

A recruitment process in Nigeria may start through email, a company portal, a form, an authorised agency or an in-person submission. Read the advert to identify who receives the application, which documents are mandatory and the real deadline.

Screening usually compares the CV and cover letter with minimum requirements, experience, education, languages, availability and work authorisation. Employers may use written questions, technical tests, phone interviews, in-person interviews or panels.

Prepare concrete examples covering experience, problem solving, teamwork, customer service, safety and learning. Bring copies of documents only when requested and never hand over originals without a legitimate reason and confirmation of the organisation.

After an interview, confirm in writing the role, location, pay, hours, contract type, probation and start date before leaving another job or paying for travel. A legitimate recruiter should be able to explain who the employer is and how the process works.

If there is a request for money, threats, a guaranteed placement, pressure to provide sensitive data or no identifiable company, stop and verify through an official channel. Report the situation to the support route with the link and a short explanation.