Best Cities to Live in Nigeria as a Digital Nomad

Introduction.

As a digital nomad, the idea of working remotely while exploring new cities can be incredibly appealing.

You get the freedom to choose where to live, all while having the opportunity to experience new cultures, meet diverse people, and enjoy different lifestyles. But the question is, which cities in Nigeria should you consider?

Nigeria, a country full of opportunities and rich in culture, has been growing rapidly in terms of tech and digital industries.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the best cities in Nigeria for digital nomads, focusing on factors like internet connectivity, cost of living, expat communities, and local amenities. I’ll share why these cities stand out and what you can expect when living and working there.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly where to go if you’re considering starting your digital nomad journey in Nigeria.

What are The Best Cities to Live in Nigeria as a Digital Nomad?

1. Lagos – The Heartbeat of Nigeria’s Tech Scene

Lagos is Nigeria’s largest city and the country’s economic powerhouse. If you’re looking for a bustling environment with endless networking opportunities, Lagos is the place to be. It’s home to numerous startups, digital agencies, and tech companies.

The city has a fast-growing digital scene, and it attracts many young professionals from around the world.

Why Lagos?

Great Connectivity: Lagos has one of the best internet infrastructures in Nigeria. With high-speed internet and access to coworking spaces like Coworking Lagos and Workstation, it’s a hub for remote workers.
Vibrant Lifestyle: There’s always something happening in Lagos. From beach clubs to fine dining, to amazing nightlife, you’ll never get bored. The city’s social scene is perfect for nomads who want to blend work and fun.
Expat Community: Lagos has a large expat community, so you’ll easily find like-minded people. You can attend networking events or meet-ups and grow your professional network.

Challenges of Lagos:

High Cost of Living: Living in Lagos can be expensive, especially in areas like Victoria Island and Lekki. However, there are cheaper areas like Surulere and Ikeja that offer good amenities at lower prices.
Traffic: Lagos is infamous for its traffic jams. This can be a challenge, especially if you need to commute to work or meetings.

2. Abuja – The Peaceful Capital

Abuja is Nigeria’s capital city and offers a more peaceful, less chaotic environment compared to Lagos. It’s a well-planned city with modern infrastructure, clean streets, and a calm atmosphere. If you prefer a quieter setting without sacrificing urban amenities, Abuja could be your ideal base.

Why Abuja?

Great Quality of Life: Abuja is well-organized, clean, and safe. It has a good mix of residential and commercial spaces, and the cost of living is lower compared to Lagos.
Co-working Spaces: Abuja has coworking spaces like Beneath the Waves and iHub Abuja where digital nomads can easily rent a desk and get to work.
Expat-Friendly: The expat community in Abuja is steadily growing. The city has a more relaxed vibe, and you can find international restaurants, shops, and a variety of cultural activities.

Challenges of Abuja:

Less Vibrant: While Abuja is peaceful, it doesn’t have the same energy and buzz as Lagos. If you’re someone who thrives on constant activity, Abuja may feel a bit too slow-paced.
Limited Public Transportation: Public transport options in Abuja are not as developed as in Lagos, so getting around may be more difficult without a private car.

3. Port Harcourt – The Industrial Powerhouse

Port Harcourt, located in the Niger Delta region, is one of Nigeria’s major industrial cities. While it may not be the first city that comes to mind for digital nomads, it’s growing in popularity among remote workers, especially those in the oil, gas, and tech sectors.

Why Port Harcourt?

Affordable Living: Port Harcourt is more affordable than both Lagos and Abuja, making it a great option for digital nomads looking to stretch their budgets.
Networking Opportunities: The city is a hub for the oil and gas industry, so if you work in tech or energy, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to network.
Growing Infrastructure: Port Harcourt is seeing rapid development, and new coworking spaces are opening regularly.

Challenges of Port Harcourt:

Rainy Season: Port Harcourt has a very wet climate, with the rainy season lasting from March to November. This can make getting around tricky.
Limited Expat Community: While growing, the expat community in Port Harcourt is not as large as in Lagos or Abuja. This can make it harder to find like-minded digital nomads.

4. Ibadan – The Hidden Gem for Digital Nomads

Ibadan, often overlooked by many digital nomads, is one of Nigeria’s oldest cities. Located in the southwest, it offers a relaxed pace of life and is much cheaper than Lagos and Abuja. Ibadan is growing in popularity due to its affordability and good quality of life.

Why Ibadan?

Low Cost of Living: Ibadan offers incredibly affordable rent and living expenses. If you’re looking to live comfortably without spending a fortune, Ibadan is perfect for that.
Developing Tech Scene: While not as advanced as Lagos, Ibadan is home to tech startups and coworking spaces. The University of Ibadan brings in a lot of young professionals and students, making it a city full of potential.
Quiet and Peaceful: If you prefer a quieter life, away from the hustle and bustle of Lagos, Ibadan offers a more laid-back experience without compromising on amenities.

Challenges of Ibadan:

Limited Connectivity: The internet speed in Ibadan may not be as fast as in Lagos or Abuja, though it’s improving steadily.
Fewer Networking Opportunities: As the tech scene in Ibadan is still developing, there may not be as many professional events or networking opportunities as in larger cities.

5. Enugu – A City for the Adventurous Nomad

Enugu, often referred to as the “Coal City,” is located in the southeastern region of Nigeria. It’s known for its historical significance and friendly atmosphere. While not a major hub for digital nomads yet, it offers an interesting mix of culture, history, and modern amenities.

Why Enugu?

Affordable Living: Enugu has one of the lowest costs of living among Nigerian cities, making it a great choice for budget-conscious digital nomads.
Local Charm: Enugu is smaller and less developed than cities like Lagos, but it offers an authentic Nigerian experience, with plenty of local markets, traditional food, and welcoming people.
Access to Nature: If you love nature and exploring new landscapes, Enugu offers beautiful hiking spots and green spaces.

Challenges of Enugu:

Limited Infrastructure: While Enugu is growing, it still lacks some of the infrastructure you might find in larger cities. This includes a limited number of coworking spaces and less reliable internet.
Smaller Expat Community: The expat community in Enugu is quite small, so finding other digital nomads or professionals in your field might be more challenging.

FAQs

1. Is Nigeria a good place for digital nomads?

Yes, Nigeria can be a great place for digital nomads, especially in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Ibadan. The tech scene is growing rapidly, and there are plenty of opportunities for networking, working remotely, and living comfortably.

2. What is the cost of living in Nigeria for digital nomads?

The cost of living varies depending on the city. Lagos and Abuja tend to be more expensive, while cities like Ibadan, Enugu, and Port Harcourt offer much more affordable options.

3. How is the internet connectivity in Nigeria?

Internet speeds in Nigeria are generally good in major cities like Lagos and Abuja. However, in more remote areas or smaller cities, you might experience slower speeds or less reliable connections.

4. Are there coworking spaces in Nigeria?

Yes, major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt have coworking spaces, although they are less common in smaller cities like Ibadan and Enugu.

Conclusion

So, where should you go as a digital nomad in Nigeria? Lagos is perfect if you’re looking for a vibrant, fast-paced environment with a strong tech scene. Abuja is a great choice if you prefer a quieter, well-organized city.

Port Harcourt offers affordability and industrial opportunities, while Ibadan and Enugu are excellent options if you’re looking for a peaceful and budget-friendly experience.

But here’s the real question: Which city fits your personal vibe and work lifestyle best? Only you can decide!