The freedom of working from anywhere worldwide that the internet provides has also made the nomadic worker trend popular in recent years. To many people, Nigeria is gradually becoming their favourite destination, especially for the digital nomads, since the country brings a fusion of culture, affordable prices, and possibly work and fun. This article will discover where to live in Nigeria and what benefits a digital nomad can get from living and working there.
Life of a Digital Nomad in Nigeria
Photo Credit: Success Magazine.
Digital nomads use technology to perform work tasks from remote locations worldwide. This kind of life enables them to travel the world, taste different cultures, and interact with people from different parts of the world, unlike the host countries they originate from. As more people engage in working remotely in the wake of COVID-19, many are looking for places where work intersects with recreation.
Why Nigeria?
Nigeria is indeed a culturally, historically, and naturally endowed nation. Depending on the country, nomadic workers are provided territory-specificities, like urban or rural ones. Here are some reasons why Nigeria is an attractive destination for remote workers:
Lower Cost of Living
The cost of living in Nigeria is much lower than in many Western countries. For digital nomads, good-quality accommodation, food, and transport are reasonably priced.
Vibrant Culture
The people of Nigeria have diverse cultures, traditions, and languages. Digital nomads can become more familiar with local culture and embrace valuable and meaningful experiences that supplement travelling.
Growing Tech Scene
Nigeria has a growing tech environment in different cities, focusing on Lagos and Abuja. It offers networking and, incredibly, access to additional spaces, such as coworking ones designed for remote employees.
Natural Beauty
Whether it is stunning sandy shorelines or luxuriant national parks, Nigeria’s versatile geography provides ample leisure time and sightseeing opportunities.
Top Best Cities to Work Remotely in Nigeria
Photo Source: CS Global Partners.
1. Lagos
Lagos is supposed to be Nigeria’s commercial capital, and people consider it the centre of Nigeria or the ‘heartbeat of Nigeria’. For digital nomads, it offers:
Coworking Spaces
Lagos has flexible working environments like Workstation, The Hive, and Spaces, which will encourage productivity. Such places offer free Wi-Fi, conference facilities, training rooms, and social functions or conferences.
Cultural Experiences
The city has vibrant art, with many art galleries, music performances, and festivals. Digital nomads can also visit markets like the Lekki Market or watch a play at the National Theatre.
Nightlife
Lagos’s nightlife is dense with bars, drink joints, clubhouses, and restaurants serving the usual Nigerian cuisine.
2. Abuja
As the capital of Nigeria, Abuja offers a more laid-back atmosphere than Lagos while still providing ample work opportunities.
Modern Infrastructure
Abuja comprises neat and organised neighbourhoods endowed with facilities that will suit the new world. Today’s nomads can also secure comfortable accommodations in zones like Wuse or Maitama.
Networking Opportunities
Different tech meetups and conferences are held within the city, allowing digital nomads to share ideas with the locals.
Green Spaces
Abuja has parks and recreation centres, including Jabi Lake Park, where workers can relax after work.
3. Yaba
Yaba, a city in Lagos, is quickly becoming known as Nigeria’s tech hub.
Startup Ecosystem
The space is also filled with startups and technological incubation facilities. Travellers can also meet other people through events organised by organisations such as the CcHub (Co-creation Hub).
Affordable Accommodations
Yaba also provides landmark affordable housing for students and young professionals.
Creative Vibe
There are liberal vibes, lots of cafes, and art spaces; people are creative, and it is very active with young talents like digital nomads.
4. Enugu
Often referred to as the “Coal City,” Enugu offers a different pace of life:
Affordability
It is also cheaper to live in Enugu than in Lagos or Abuja, meaning that budget-conscious digital nomads will find the city ideal.
Community Feel
Enugu has a friendly environment; most people here are friendly and will always welcome anyone with an open arm. This makes it easier for the ‘digital nomads’ to intermingle with the people in that area.
Natural Attractions
With this, impressive scenes around the city, like the Ngwo Pine Forest and Awhum Waterfall, exist for those who love nature exploits.
READ ALSO: Your Guide to Iconic City Tourism: The Modern Traveller’s Ultimate Resource
Guidelines for Success As A Digital Nomad in Nigeria
Despite many opportunities for a digital nomad in Nigeria, the stay is partially problem-free. Here are some tips to help you thrive:
1. Internet Connection Plan
Almost all workers rely on the Internet to perform various work-related tasks; hence, remote work is essential. While major cities like Lagos and Abuja have good connectivity options through mobile data plans and coworking spaces, it’s necessary to have backup solutions in place. One investment idea that would be pretty viable is to purchase mobile Wi-Fi devices or portable routers. Travellers should study existing ISP providers within any region to avoid being fixed to an area with a weak internet provider.
2. Embrace Local Culture
Understanding Nigerian culture will enhance your experience as a digital nomad.
It would be best to have small local words, especially in Yoruba or Igbo, to say simple things like ‘hello’.
Go for events and festivals so that you can feel the community operating.
3. Safety
Safety should always be a priority when travelling.
Learn more about neighbourhoods before selecting your lodging.
When moving around, using applications such as Uber or Bolt is safer.
4. Manage Your Finances
While the cost of living may be lower than in other countries, managing your finances is still essential. Get accustomed to the Nigerian currency, Naira, and exchange rates.
Apply the application that helps control your spending when living in another country.
5. Find Work-Life Balance
As a digital nomad, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and leisure.
Establish an acquaintance between working hours and domestic life. Take periodic time off to go around and check out the view or use time for relaxation.
Conclusion
In Nigeria, the digital nomad is the dream of every remote worker who wants to travel the world and work simultaneously. Nigeria is an emerging market that a nomad would consider when seeking flexible workspaces in cities like Lagos, Abuja, or Yaba or having fun in Enugu.
By using local culture, preparing for connectivity issues, ensuring safety, being prudent with finances, and balancing your work and personal life, you can get the most out of your nomadic work experience in this beautiful country.
Discover this further territory of Nigerian career and personal growth by working remotely while building unforgettable memories in one of the most exciting African countries. If you are motivated by the energy of the Nigerian metropolis reflected by the markets of Lagos or if you prefer the calm of the landscape in the Newton of Africa, Enugu, Nigeria, welcomes you with open arms and so much more that you can dream about for your digital nomad trip!