Myths About Nigerian Culture

Nigeria is the most population Black Country in the world. Also, Nigeria is the 7th largest oil producing nation and 7th most populated country in the world. 1 out of every 5 black person(s) on earth is Nigerian

Current population is projected to be 165 million people.
Sub Saharan Africa has a population of 866 million. Other notables include Brazil (15 million) and the United States (30 million).

#2 Key Insights into managing people or organizations in Nigeria Kick backs/Bribes
Clarity – Deliverables need to be spelt out very clearly and frequently to avoid mis-communicating with team members or sub-ordinates. The average Nigerian is considerably lazier than their western counterparts. Authoritative leaders are highly preferred. The military dispensation era is still very fresh in the minds of most Nigerians and this may have a role in their preference for leaders that give clear and concise instructions, clearly define the roles of team members and has a direct approach. Consensus-style of management is not wide-spread in Nigeria. Working in Teams – Nigerians are very relationship oriented. The average Nigerian prefers to be part of a successful team than to be a successful individual.

The use of social capital is very big amongst Nigeria. We tend to call it “Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours back”. Team members end of doing and returning favors for one another within and outside work premises. Age – Age is a very big deal in Nigeria. Managing a team or being on a team with much older members can be an issue if not very carefully managed. Nigerians are taught to respect their elders from a very young age. Respect is typically shown during greeting exchanges by way of saluting (Sir/Madam), prostrating – kneeling down or touching the floor with one hand (locally called “Dobale” and by giving up certain rights (speaking order, seating order…). As a manager with older team members, this is the trickiest challenge to overcome in Nigeria; it leads to insubordination very often. Some other things to note include the following

Agreeing with people is considered a sign of respect. When Nigerians say “Yes”, it doesn’t always mean they agree; rather their respect for someone might not allow them to say “no” (Business Etiquette in Nigeria, CNN) Among traditional Nigeria business people, an appointment is rarely private. Do not be irritated if your meeting is interrupted by phone calls/and or visits from team/client’s friends and family (Business Etiquette in Nigeria, CNN).