Doing Business in Lagos, Nigeria: What Founders Need to Know | Market Spotlight

What does it actually take to build, hire, and grow in Lagos, Nigeria?

In this Market Spotlight, Jonathan Sellers meets business leaders, an employment lawyer, a social entrepreneurship leader, and startup founders to explore the opportunities—and practical challenges—of doing business in Nigeria.

From scaling companies to navigating employment rules and building solutions to everyday problems, these conversations offer a ground-level view of Lagos through the people working there.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Adeolu Adewumi-Zer, ZER Consulting — Building scalable businesses, moving beyond founder dependency, and why foreign companies need to adapt to local realities.

Ose Okpeku, The Law Crest LLP — Hiring in Nigeria, employment contracts, benefits, compliance, and mistakes foreign employers should avoid.

Josephine Nzerem, Ashoka — Social entrepreneurship, supporting changemakers, and how locally developed ideas can create international impact.

Scott Itepu, Axle Creative Technologies — Using AI and blockchain to help creatives protect their work and demonstrate ownership.

Bolaji Abioye, Bidbuddy AI — Helping businesses navigate complex bidding requirements and prepare proposals using AI.

Jide Meadows, EV Rides — Electric mobility, access to finance, and helping lower-income riders access productive assets.

A recurring message: understanding Nigeria takes local knowledge, strong relationships, and a willingness to adapt.