Lagos is the biggest startup city in Africa. Fintech built most of that, and companies started in Lagos now move money across the continent. If you work in technology, or want to, this is where much of Nigeria’s industry is.
Where it is
- Yaba, on the mainland, is where the scene grew up, around the universities and the early tech hubs. It is still where many developers live and many communities meet.
- Lekki, Victoria Island and Ikoyi are where the larger and better-funded companies have their offices.
- Ikeja has its own cluster, close to Computer Village.
Hubs and coworking
Tech hubs offer desks, power and internet, and run events, incubators and training. They are the easiest way to find the scene: go to a meet-up at one and you will leave knowing people.
Communities and events
Developer communities, women-in-tech groups, design and product meet-ups, and the big annual conferences all run in Lagos. Most announce themselves on social media and in community chat groups; one invitation leads to the next.
Learning
Bootcamps, online courses and free community programmes train a large share of Lagos developers, alongside university graduates. What gets you hired is work you can show: projects, contributions, and a portfolio a stranger can open on a phone.
Hiring and pay
- Many roles are remote, for foreign companies, and pay in foreign currency. That market is competitive, and interviews are global.
- Local startups pay in naira, sometimes with equity, and hire through referrals more than adverts.
- Read the contract. Check whether pay is gross or net, how tax and pension are handled, and what equity actually vests.
Finding a job in Lagos Employment contract checklist Registering a business