The practice of freelancing in Nigeria is increasing. Working on a project for a client without committing to a long-term job contract is one way (kind) of self-employment. Independent contractors with experience in digital services including web development, graphic design, and content creation are known as freelancers. Depending on what both parties agree upon, the work may be done remotely or on-site. Nigeria’s freelance industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, opening doors for talented Nigerians. Freelancers utilise several online platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, Surejobz App, amongst others.
Statistical Snapshot:
Nigeria has a growing population of freelancers with over 40% of its workforce engaged in freelance work. According to a survey that was recorded by freelancemaster.ng, 75% of Nigerian freelancers have reported an increase in their earnings over the past years. The majority of freelancers in Nigeria are youths with ages ranging from 25 to 35 years. Approximately 60% of Nigerian freelancers specialise in digital services such as web development, graphic design, and content creation while the remaining 40% specialise in consulting, accounting, legal advice, creative arts such as photography, writing, editing, marketing, and advertising, and healthcare. The rate of self-employment in Nigeria has been on the rise according to Trading Economics. It was recorded to have reached 85.85% in 2022, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources.
Figure 1: Percentage of Freelancing Workforce in Nigeria
Source: freelancemaster.ng
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Figure 2: Rate of Self-Employment in Nigeria
Source: tradingeconomics.com
Case: Ibrahim Aliyu – The Graphic Designer
Ibrahim Aliyu, a Nigerian graphic designer, began his own business despite challenges such as limited resources and a competitive sector. Despite obstacles like slow internet connectivity and restricted access to creative tools, Ibrahim persisted in his quest. By sheer determination and imagination, Ibrahim worked with overseas clients, upgraded his equipment, and produced a successful portfolio of graphic design work. Prospective independent contractors could find motivation in their capacity to conquer challenges and devise original solutions.
Ibrahim’s tale highlights the value of resourcefulness and fortitude in the face of adversity. It highlights that being successful as a freelancer requires not just good fortune but also a strong will to bounce back from failures and keep becoming better. Because of Ibrahim Aliyu’s success, Nigeria’s dynamic freelance environment can be seen as inspiring and demonstrating the potential rewards for those who take a chance on freelancing.
Key Insight – Significance of Freelancing to Economic Growth:
- Flexibility and Innovation: Freelancers frequently introduce novel viewpoints and inventive strategies. Their adaptability enables them to swiftly respond to evolving market needs and experiment with novel concepts and methodologies. This dynamic approach encourages innovation and stimulates economic advancement by encouraging creativity and problem-solving.
- Job Creation: Freelancing allows individuals to establish their sources of income, thereby bolstering overall job expansion within the economy. With increased participation in freelance endeavours, individuals not only generate income for themselves but also have the potential to employ others for project assistance, creating supplementary job prospects.
- Access to Talent: Businesses can access a diverse pool of talent through freelancing platforms, regardless of geographical location. This access to a global talent pool enables companies to find specialised skills and expertise that may not be available locally, facilitating business growth and competitiveness.
- Cost Efficiency: Freelancing offers a cost-efficient alternative for businesses, particularly startups and small enterprises facing resource constraints. Engaging freelancers on a project basis allows companies to reduce overhead expenses typically linked with conventional employment.
- Digital Economy Growth: The surge in freelancing is intricately linked to the expansion of the digital economy. By utilising digital platforms and technology to communicate with clients and provide services from a distance, freelancers play a role in advancing digital infrastructure and capabilities. This, in turn, propels digital transformation and fosters economic growth.