15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

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15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

If you’ve ever spent hours perfecting your CV, fired off dozens of job applications, and still ended up hearing nothing, you’re not alone. In Nigeria, job hunting is more than a search—it’s a struggle, a full-time job on its own—often unpaid, emotionally draining, and full of surprises. With an oversaturated labor market, underperforming economy, and a system often riddled with favoritism and informal gatekeeping, landing a job can feel like playing a rigged game.

This article is for graduates, young professionals, and anyone actively job hunting in Nigeria who feels stuck, frustrated, or simply tired of the endless cycle of applying and hoping. Whether you’re fresh out of NYSC or years into your career with nothing stable to show for it, this guide is for you.

We’re not here to sugarcoat it. Job hunting in Nigeria can be harsh, unpredictable, and disheartening. But here’s the good news: once you understand the unspoken rules and hidden obstacles, you can start playing smarter.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll walk away with:

  • A clearer picture of why the system is the way it is.
  • Real, actionable steps to increase your chances of landing a job.
  • Tips on navigating gatekeepers, scams, and the infamous “who you know” culture.
  • Smart ways to make yourself stand out—even without experience or connections.

Let’s cut through the noise and talk about the 15 harsh truths of job hunting in Nigeria—and more importantly, how to beat each one.

15 harsh truths of job hunting in Nigeria

1. Your Network Often Matters More Than Your CV

The saying “Na who know person dey get job” isn’t just street talk—it’s reality. Many job openings, especially in government and certain industries, are filled internally or through connections before they’re even advertised.

How to beat it:

  • Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops.
  • Build and maintain a strong LinkedIn and social media profile.
  • Engage in professional circles and online communities.
  • Tell your friends, family members, family friends that you are job hunting.

2. Most Employers are Using ATS software

Companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that automatically reject CVs lacking specific keywords.

How to beat it:

  • Tailor your CV for each application, incorporating keywords from the job description.
  • Use clear formatting and standard headings.

Click here to get a professional, ATS compliant CV from an Expert for less than 5k.

3. Employers pay More Attention on Personal Branding and Packaging

Employers often prioritize communication skills, appearance, and demeanor over technical abilities, especially for client-facing roles like customer service, sales representative, receptionist, etc.

How to beat it:

  • Practice common interview questions and answers.
  • Dress appropriately for interviews.
  • Work on your appearance, body language and confidence.

4. Many Company Ghost Applicants

Many companies don’t send rejection emails or follow-ups. You might never hear back, even after multiple interview rounds.

How to beat it:

  • Continue applying to other opportunities instead of waiting.
  • Follow up with a polite email a week after the interview.

5. Internship, Trainee and Volunteer Experiences Count

Employers often demand “2 years experience,” but internships, NYSC, graduate trainee and volunteer work can count when framed correctly.

How to beat it:

  • Highlight relevant skills and achievements from all experiences.
  • Use action verbs and quantify results where possible.
  • If you are a fresh graduate who just finished NYSC, instead of waiting until the ideal job comes, you can take on volunteering job, internship, and even personal business or training; they all add to your experience and increase the number of years of experience.

6. Some Recruitment Agencies or Jobs Are Scams

If a company asks you to pay for interviews, or job placement—it’s likely a scam.

How to beat it:

  • Research companies before attending interviews.
  • Never pay for job offers.
  • Report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

7. Employers Check Your Social Media Handle/Accounts

Many Nigerian job seekers don’t optimize or use their social media account properly. Many recruiters often check your social media profiles when you apply for job to see what your values are and also to know if you have good social media profile.

How to beat it:

  • Keep your social media profile updated and professional.
  • Follow companies and engage with industry content.
  • Use hashtags like #Jobberman, #Hiring, and #NigeriaJobs to find opportunities.

8. Some Employers Do Background Checks

Some employers go as far as contacting past employers without your knowledge to know if you have good reputation.

How to beat it:

  • Have good relationship with your employer whether past or present.
  • Be honest about your work history.
  • It is true that some employers can be over tasking and frustrating sometimes, you can omit those experience from your CV where your relationship with your employer did not end well.

9. Internal Referrals Increase Your Chances Greatly

An employee referring you internally can move your application to the top of the pile.

How to beat it:

  • Network with employees at your target companies.
  • Attend industry events and connect with professionals.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals.

10. Job Security Is Rare in the Private Sector

Unless you’re a federal staff member, job security in Nigeria’s private sector is minimal.

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How to beat it:

  • Develop multiple income streams.
  • Continuously upskill to remain relevant.
  • Save and invest wisely.

11. Skill Mismatch Is a Major Issue

Many job seekers struggle because their skills don’t match what employers need. Companies often want specific skills not taught in school.

How to beat it:

  • Identify in-demand skills in your industry.
  • Take online courses or certifications.
  • Gain practical experience through internships or freelance work.

12. Unrealistic Job Requirements Are Common

Employers often list extensive requirements for entry-level positions, deterring many applicants.

How to beat it:

  • Apply if you meet most of the requirements.
  • Highlight transferable skills and willingness to learn.
  • Customize your application to align with the job description.

13. The Job Market Is Saturated

With millions of graduates entering the market annually, competition is fierce.

How to beat it:

  • Differentiate yourself through unique skills or experiences.
  • Build a personal brand online.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and adapt accordingly.

14. Many Jobs Are Not Advertised Publicly

A significant number of job openings are filled through internal referrals or networks before they’re advertised.

How to beat it:

  • Network proactively.
  • Inform your contacts that you’re job hunting.
  • Join professional groups and forums.

In conclusion, if you are able to implement most of these guides, you will be on top of the job hunting game in Nigeria and have higher chances to get that your dream job.

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

15 Harsh Truths About Job Hunting in Nigeria (And How to Beat Them)

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