Building meaningful business connections is one of the most effective ways to grow as an entrepreneur in Nigeria. From Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt to Ibadan, small business owners and professionals are discovering that opportunities often come from relationships, not just from skill or hard work.
Networking has always been a vital part of Nigerian business culture. Partnerships, mentorships, contracts, and even investments often flow through trusted relationships. The good news is that networking is a skill anyone can learn, regardless of personality type. Even if you are more reserved or introverted, you can still thrive by approaching it strategically.
Why Networking Matters for Entrepreneurs in Nigeria
Nigeria is home to over 39 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), according to the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). With such a competitive market, networking is not just optional—it can be the difference between growth and stagnation.
A strong business network in Nigeria can:
- Connect you with mentors, investors, and collaborators.
- Provide industry insights and opportunities that you may not find online.
- Build credibility through referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Offer support from other entrepreneurs who understand the unique challenges of running a business in Nigeria.
Core Strategies for Building a Strong Business Network in Nigeria
1. Start with One-on-One Connections
Large networking events can feel overwhelming, but the most powerful relationships often begin with one-on-one conversations. Instead of aiming to meet dozens of people, focus on having meaningful discussions with a few individuals.
If you are introverted, this approach can feel more natural. For example, inviting someone for coffee or scheduling a short virtual chat allows for deeper conversations without the pressure of a crowd.
2. Leverage Online Communities and Social Media
Social media platforms like LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and industry-specific WhatsApp or Facebook groups have become essential tools for Nigerian professionals. These platforms let you connect with industry peers, share insights, and showcase expertise.
For entrepreneurs who may not enjoy constant physical meetups, online networking provides a comfortable and effective alternative. By consistently contributing value, posting useful content, commenting thoughtfully, or joining discussions you build visibility and trust over time.
3. Attend Targeted Business Events
From the Lagos International Trade Fair to the GTCO Fashion Weekend, Nigeria is full of events that bring entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors together. Instead of attending every event, choose those that align with your industry or goals.
For example:
- Tech founders can attend the Omniverse Summit or Lagos Startup Week.
- Agribusiness entrepreneurs may benefit from agricultural expos.
- SMEs seeking funding can engage with Development Bank of Nigeria or SMEDAN programs.
Set a clear goal before attending: meet three potential partners, speak to one investor, or introduce yourself to a mentor. This keeps you focused and reduces the pressure of large crowds. Introverts, in particular, may find this approach helpful.
4. Prepare Conversation Starters
Many entrepreneurs struggle with what to say when networking. Preparing simple conversation starters can ease the tension. In Nigeria, hot topics such as government policies affecting SMEs, fintech innovations, and even football are common entry points for dialogue.
Examples include:
- “I read about how the new CBN policy is affecting SMEs. How has it impacted your business?”
- “I noticed you’re in the renewable energy sector. What changes are you seeing in terms of financing?”
This preparation benefits everyone, but for introverts, it helps reduce social anxiety and keeps conversations flowing.
5. Join Professional Associations and Volunteer
Professional associations like NASME, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and women-focused groups often provide excellent networking opportunities. Volunteering for roles, even small ones, puts you in positions where people notice your contributions without you needing to “sell yourself” aggressively.
Over time, these associations become a source of trusted referrals and opportunities.
6. Offer Value First
Networking works best when it is not transactional. Instead of reaching out only when you need something, start by creating value for others. Share a helpful resource, connect someone to a contact, or provide feedback on an idea.
In Nigeria’s business culture, where relationships are often built on mutual benefit, this approach goes a long way. Introverts are naturally thoughtful, which makes them particularly good at offering genuine value in relationships.
7. Follow Up Thoughtfully
Many entrepreneurs meet people at events but fail to follow up, leaving potential opportunities on the table. Send a LinkedIn request, WhatsApp message, or short email within a few days. Personalize the message by referencing your conversation.
For example:
“Hello Jason, I enjoyed our chat about SME financing at the forum. Here’s an article you might find interesting. Looking forward to staying connected.”
This kind of thoughtful follow-up strengthens trust and keeps you memorable.
8. Seek Mentorship and Build a Small Trusted Circle
Networking is not only about meeting as many people as possible. A small, trusted circle often provides more value than hundreds of weak connections. Look for mentors, industry peers, and advisors who can guide you and open doors to other contacts.
Platforms like , MSMEAFRICA Community, the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Grooming Endowment Trust, often provide mentorship opportunities. Introverts especially benefit from this approach, as it emphasizes deeper, long-term relationships instead of surface-level interactions.
9. Use Networking to Access Financing and Partnerships
For Nigerian entrepreneurs, strong networks are often the gateway to financial opportunities. Banks, angel investors, and grant providers prefer to work with businesses they trust, and trust often grows through referrals.
Similarly, partnerships between SMEs often emerge from strong networking. For example, a fashion designer might meet a logistics provider at a local event, creating a win-win collaboration.
10. Manage Your Energy and Time
Networking does not mean attending every event or staying active on every social media platform. Be strategic with your time and focus on activities that truly matter for your goals.
For introverts, pacing is important to avoid burnout. For extroverts, balance ensures you do not spread yourself too thin.
Building a strong business network in Nigeria is both an art and a discipline. It requires authenticity, patience, and a willingness to give as much as you receive. While extroverts may enjoy the energy of large gatherings, introverts can excel through one-on-one interactions, thoughtful follow-ups, and online engagement.
No matter your personality type, the key is to focus on quality relationships, clear goals, and consistent effort. Over time, your network will become one of your most valuable assets, opening doors to opportunities, partnerships, and growth that would be difficult to achieve alone.
