Do you want to be a Nigerian freelancer? Read this piece.
In 2012, I was a curious young Nigerian, still in my teenage years, who stumbled upon the world of blogging.
Back then, I didn’t know that this hobby would become the foundation of a thriving freelancing career.
Today, I’ve spent over 10 years blogging and another 6+ years as a freelancer, working with clients worldwide.
I’ve even landed clients paying as much as $1,000 (about 1.7 million Naira) per month just to write for them.
This guide is a combination of my personal experiences and practical steps for anyone looking to start their freelancing journey, especially in Nigeria.
Table of Contents - Freelancing in Nigeria: How to Start & Succeed as a Nigerian Freelancer:
What is Freelancing?
Freelancing Categories
How I Got Started Years Ago
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting as a Freelancer in Nigeria
Common Freelancing Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
Why Freelancing is Perfect for Nigerians
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Freelancing in Nigeria
What is Freelancing?
Freelancing means working independently, offering your skills and expertise to clients or companies on a project basis. Freelancers are not bound by long-term contracts; instead, they work as self-employed individuals, handling multiple clients simultaneously.
Freelancing Categories
Freelancers span various industries, but here are the most common niches:
Writing and Editing: Blogging, copywriting, technical writing, proofreading.
Graphic Design: Logos, branding, website design.
Digital Marketing: SEO, social media management, email campaigns.
Tech and IT: Web development, app development, cybersecurity.
Consulting: Business strategies, financial analysis.
How I Got Started Years Ago
Let me take you back to 2012. At the time, I had just discovered blogging.
I started my first blog, which focused on personal interests, stories, and eventually SEO content.
I wasn’t making any significant money, but I was learning the ropes of content creation and digital marketing.
Fast forward to 2018, when I was in my university hostel room, grinding away on my blog.
A close friend casually mentioned, “Simon, since you write so well, why not try freelancing?”
That suggestion sparked an idea.
Why not take my writing skills and help businesses grow their brands?
I decided to look into freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, but initially, I focused on what I knew best - blogging.
By 2019, my hard work paid off when I landed my first $1,000/month client.
I wrote SEO-optimized articles for their business, helping them increase traffic and generate leads.
This wasn’t luck; it was the result of years of consistent effort and a strategic approach.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting as a Freelancer
1. Understand What You’re Passionate About
Before diving into freelancing, you need to identify your niche. Ask yourself:
What skills do I have? (Writing, designing, coding, etc.)
What industries do I enjoy working in? (Tech, fashion, travel, etc.)
Are my skills in demand?
For me, writing and SEO were natural choices because I had already honed these skills through blogging.
2. Build Your Freelancing Portfolio
Your portfolio is your resume. Without it, potential clients won’t take you seriously. Start by creating:
Sample Projects: Create content or designs that showcase your expertise.
Case Studies: Share results from any past projects (even personal ones).
Personal Blog or Website: A professional website, like SimonZaku.com, showcases your expertise and helps clients find you.
3. Set Up a Freelancing Website
Creating a portfolio website gives you credibility and a place to showcase your work. Include:
About: Your story and expertise.
Portfolio: Samples of your best work.
Services: A clear outline of what you offer.
Contact: A form or email for clients to reach you.
4. Publish Content Around Your Niche
Blogging was my secret weapon.
When I started publishing content about SEO and digital marketing on my website, it helped me attract clients who trusted me as an authority.
For example, if your niche is graphic design, write posts like:
“Top 5 Logo Trends for 2024.”
“How to Design a Brand Identity for Small Businesses.”
5. Leverage Freelancing Platforms
Freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour are great for finding clients.
Here’s how to succeed on these platforms:
Create a Strong Profile: Highlight your skills and experience.
Bid Smartly: Write personalized proposals for every job.
Build Reviews: Start small to get positive feedback.
6. Network and Reach Out
Networking is essential for freelancers. Start by reaching out to businesses on LinkedIn or connecting with fellow freelancers.
When I started, I used social media to reach out to potential clients directly.
7. Start Small, Then Scale
In the beginning, you may need to take smaller jobs to build your reputation.
Over time, increase your rates as your expertise grows.
How to Succeed as a Freelancer in Nigeria
1. Be Consistent
Freelancing is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It requires patience and consistency.
My first blog didn’t generate results overnight; it took years of hard work.
2. Deliver Quality Work
Quality is non-negotiable.
Every piece of work you deliver is a reflection of your brand.
3. Build Long-Term Relationships
Some of my best clients came from referrals.
Treat every client as a long-term partner, and they’ll recommend you to others.
4. Learn and Evolve
The freelancing industry is always changing.
Stay updated on trends in your niche, whether it’s new SEO strategies, design tools, or AI technology.
Common Freelancing Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
1. Clients Who Don’t Pay
Solution: Always use contracts and ask for upfront payments.
2. Inconsistent Income
Solution: Diversify your income streams by offering different services.
3. Finding Clients
Solution: Market yourself through blogging, social media, and networking.
Why Freelancing is Perfect for Nigerians
Global Market: Freelancing platforms connect you with international clients.
Flexible Earnings: You can earn in dollars, bypassing Nigeria’s economic challenges.
Skill Utilization: Freelancing allows you to monetize skills like writing, design, or coding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Freelancing in Nigeria
1. Can I do freelancing in Nigeria?
Yes, freelancing is very possible in Nigeria. Many Nigerians earn a living working remotely for clients worldwide through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn.
All you need is a skill, a reliable internet connection, and a payment method like Payoneer or Wise to receive earnings.
2. How much do freelancers make in Nigeria?
Freelancers in Nigeria earn anywhere between ₦50,000 to ₦3,000,000+ monthly, depending on their skills, experience, and client base.
High-income skills like SEO writing, graphic design, software development, and digital marketing tend to attract higher pay.
3. How can I start my freelancing?
To start freelancing in Nigeria, follow these steps:
Pick a skill – Writing, graphic design, coding, etc.
Create an online portfolio – Showcase your work on a personal website or LinkedIn.
Join freelancing platforms – Sign up on Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer.com.
Set up payment methods – Use Payoneer, Wise, or cryptocurrency for transactions.
Pitch and apply for jobs – Send proposals and respond to job postings.
Deliver quality work – Maintain good ratings to attract more clients.
4. Which freelancing site is best for beginners in Nigeria?
Some of the best freelancing websites for beginners in Nigeria include:
Fiverr – Ideal for entry-level freelancers who can offer services starting at $5.
Upwork – Suitable for professionals looking for high-paying long-term clients.
PeoplePerHour – Great for project-based jobs.
Freelancer.com – Offers a wide range of job categories.
Toptal – Best for expert freelancers in software development, design, and finance.
5. Do freelancers pay tax in Nigeria?
Yes, freelancers in Nigeria are required to pay tax under the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA).
However, many freelancers operate informally and may not register for tax unless they have a structured business. If you earn consistently, consider registering as a business and paying taxes to avoid future legal issues.
6. Who is eligible for freelancing?
Anyone with a skill that can be offered remotely is eligible for freelancing. Students, graduates, professionals, and even full-time employees can freelance as long as they have a laptop, internet access, and a way to receive payments.
7. Can Nigerians use Upwork?
Yes, Nigerians can use Upwork. However, Upwork has strict approval processes, so you need a well-optimized profile and relevant skills to get accepted. Using a professional profile picture, writing a strong bio, and showcasing past work can improve your chances.
8. Can Nigerians work on Fiverr?
Yes, Nigerians can work on Fiverr. It is one of the easiest freelancing platforms for Nigerians to get started on, as it doesn’t require approval to create an account. Simply sign up, set up a gig, and start attracting clients.
9. How do I register as a freelancer in Nigeria?
There is no official "freelancer registration" in Nigeria, but if you want to operate legally, follow these steps:
Register a business name – With the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) if you plan to freelance professionally.
Open a business bank account – To separate your earnings from personal finances.
Get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) – To comply with tax regulations.
Set up a Payoneer or Wise account – For international transactions.
Don't Wait for the Perfect Moment - Start Freelancing Today!
My journey from a university hostel room to earning $1,000/month as a freelancer is proof that success is possible with hard work and strategy.
Freelancing is a powerful way to achieve financial independence, especially in Nigeria.
Start small, remain consistent, and don’t be afraid to fail.
Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful freelancer.
Have a blessed day, Ibifounder!
Simon Taki Zaku,
Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng
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