7 Brutal Challenges Nigerian Freelancers Face Internationally (how to fix them)

If you’re a Nigerian entrepreneur or freelancer trying to build a global business, you’ve probably felt like the odds are stacked against you. Trust me - I get it.

I’ve been in this game for over a decade, and I’ve faced almost every challenge you can think of.

From clients doubting me because of where I’m from to struggling with payment gateways that make you question your life choices.

But despite all these hurdles, many of us are still standing strong, making waves, and proving that Nigerian businesses deserve a seat at the global table.

So, what exactly are the biggest challenges we freelancers face?

And more importantly, how can we overcome them?

Let’s dive right in.

The Real Struggles of Nigerian Freelancers Working with Global Clients

Here;

1. The “You’re from Nigeria?” Segregation

Let’s be real. Being a Nigerian in the global business space often feels like carrying an invisible label. The moment people realize where you’re from, the vibe changes.

Some clients start acting differently, doubting your expertise even when you’re better than half the “gurus” they worship online.

But here’s the thing:

Your value isn’t defined by your location.

The key is to let your work speak louder than their biases. Focus on delivering results so undeniable that they can’t ignore you - even if they try.

2. “Are You a Scammer?”

Ah yes, the classic one. The moment you say, “I’m from Nigeria,” some people start looking at you like you just asked for their credit card details.

This stereotype is exhausting, but here’s how I handle it:

• Professional branding: A solid online presence (LinkedIn, website, testimonials) helps build credibility.

• Transparency: I share my work process upfront to build trust.

• Consistency: Over time, consistent results silence the doubts.

If they still think you’re a scammer after all that?

Their loss. Move on.

3. Zero to Minimal Press & Visibility

You can be the best in your field, but because you’re from Nigeria, you often get overlooked. It’s like the big platforms have a blind spot unless you’re from the US or UK.

I’ve seen people with half my experience getting featured on international blogs just because of where they’re based.

But here’s the hack:

• Leverage local wins: Get featured in Nigerian media and use that as social proof.

• Network globally: Join international communities, attend virtual events, and put yourself out there.

4. “Remote Until You’re from Nigeria”

You see a job listing: “Remote work opportunity.”You apply, excited.Then you get hit with: “Oh, we prefer candidates from the US or UK.”

So… was it really remote? Or “remote within borders”?

The way around this?

• Focus on companies with proven remote culture.

• Pitch directly to decision-makers instead of HR filters.

• Create undeniable portfolios that make geography irrelevant.

5. The Dollar-Naira Conversion Rate Struggle

The current exchange rate is enough to make anyone cry. Courses, tools, and subscriptions that cost $100 might not seem like much in the US - but that’s over ₦100,000 here!

This stops many Nigerians from starting online businesses.

But here’s the truth:

You can start small.

I started my first blog over a decade ago on Blogger - for free. I didn’t wait for big funding.

I started with what I had.

You don’t need fancy tools to begin. Start now, upgrade later.

6. Poor Payment Gateways

This one is personal.For years, I lost clients simply because I couldn’t accept payments via PayPal. Many clients were skeptical when I suggested alternatives. It was frustrating.

Thankfully, platforms like Paystack and Flutterwave changed the game. But even now, some international clients still hesitate.

Here are the top payment gateways Nigerian freelancers and businesses can use:

• Paystack

• Flutterwave

• Wise (formerly TransferWise)

• Skrill

• Stripe Atlas (via workaround)

• Chipper Cash

• Geegpay

• Grey.co

• Barter by Flutterwave

• WorldRemit (for personal payments)

7. No Funding or Investment Opportunities

Unlike startups in the US with access to endless VC funds, Nigerian entrepreneurs often have to bootstrap everything.

But here’s the mindset that helped me: “Start where you are, with what you have.”

I launched my first blog without a dime - just passion, consistency, and free tools.

If you’re waiting for funding to start, you’ll be waiting forever. Build something first, even if it’s small. Investors are more interested in traction than ideas.

Final Thoughts: Join My Exclusive WhatsApp Group

I know these struggles firsthand because I’ve lived them.

That’s why I’ve created an exclusive WhatsApp group for Nigerian freelancers and aspiring online business owners.

In this group, we:

• Share strategies for overcoming these challenges

• Discuss business growth tips

• Connect with like-minded individuals

Want to be part of it?

Apply now and join a community that understands your journey.