Country guide

Nigeria Business etiquette and meeting customs

Africa/Lagos

What kind of meeting?

Moderate punctuality

A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.

Meeting Culture

Recommended duration60+ min
Communication StyleHierarchical, relationship-oriented
Greeting StyleFirm handshake, sometimes with left hand supporting right

Daily Schedule

Work Hours08:0017:00
Breakfast07:0008:00
Lunch12:0013:00
Dinner19:0021:00
Sleep23:0006:00

Tips for Meetings

For the kind of meeting you chose above.

Dress Code

Business formal or traditional attire

Tone

Hierarchical, relationship-driven

  • ·Use titles like Chief, Doctor, or Engineer when appropriate
  • ·Seniority and age command deep respect in meetings
  • ·Personal relationships must be built before business deals

General Tips

  • ·Nigerian time — the meeting may start late, but arrive on time yourself
  • ·Respect for seniority and elders is essential
  • ·Personal relationships drive business outcomes
  • ·Titles are important — use them

Cultural Notes

  • ·WAT timezone (UTC+1)
  • ·Growing tech hub

Meeting someone from Nigeria?

Find the best time

Cultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.

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