Top 10 Questions Asked in Nigerian Job Interviews and How to Answer Them

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Discover the most common Nigerian job interview questions and learn how to answer them with confidence. Practical examples for job seekers.

Introduction

Preparing for a job interview in Nigeria can be nerve-racking, especially when you’re unsure of the questions that may come up. While every employer is different, there are certain questions that almost always appear during interviews across industries. In this article, we’ll go through the top 10 most common job interview questions in Nigeria and show you how to answer them effectively.

1. Tell Me About Yourself

This is usually the first question. Employers want to know if you can confidently summarize who you are and why you fit the role.

How to Answer:

• Give a brief background (education and relevant work).

• Highlight your skills and achievements.

• Conclude with why you’re excited about the role.

Example:

“I am a Marketing graduate with three years of experience in digital campaigns. At XYZ company, I helped grow online sales by 40% in one year. I’m excited about this role because it aligns with my passion for brand growth and digital innovation.”

2. Why Do You Want to Work Here?

Employers want to see if you understand the company and if your goals align with theirs.

How to Answer:

• Show that you researched the company.

• Mention how your skills can contribute.

• Avoid generic answers like “Because I need a job.”

Example:

“I admire your company’s focus on renewable energy in Nigeria. With my background in engineering and project management, I believe I can contribute to building more sustainable energy solutions.”

3. What Are Your Strengths?

This helps employers understand what makes you stand out.

How to Answer:

• Pick 2–3 strengths that relate to the job.

• Back them with examples.

Example:

“One of my strengths is problem-solving. For example, I developed a reporting system that reduced data errors by 30%. I’m also skilled in teamwork, as shown when I led a group project that delivered results ahead of schedule.”

4. What Are Your Weaknesses?

A tricky question—employers want honesty and self-awareness.

How to Answer:

• Mention a real weakness, but not one critical to the role.

• Show how you’re improving.

Example:

“In the past, I sometimes struggled with public speaking, but I’ve been taking training sessions and volunteering to present during team meetings. It’s helping me grow more confident.”

5. Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

This tests your ambition and whether you plan to stay long-term.

How to Answer:

• Show growth ambitions that align with the company.

• Avoid unrealistic goals.

Example:

“In five years, I see myself growing into a senior project management role, where I can lead larger teams and contribute to expanding the company’s operations in Nigeria.”

6. Why Should We Hire You?

This is your chance to sell yourself.

How to Answer:

• Summarize your key skills and achievements.

• Show how they meet the company’s needs.

Example:

“You should hire me because I bring five years of experience in sales, with a proven record of exceeding targets by 20%. I also have strong communication skills that will help in building long-term client relationships.”

7. What Salary Are You Expecting?

This is common in Nigeria and can be tricky.

How to Answer:

• Research average salaries for the role.

• Give a reasonable range, not a fixed figure.

Example:

“Based on my research and experience level, I believe a fair range for this role is between ₦150,000 and ₦180,000 monthly, but I’m open to discussion.”

8. Can You Work Under Pressure?

Employers want to know how you handle stress.

How to Answer:

• Give an example where you met deadlines under pressure.

Example:

“Yes, I can. At my last job, I managed multiple deadlines during peak season. I stayed organized, prioritized tasks, and delivered quality work on time.”

9. Tell Me About a Challenge You Faced and How You Overcame It

This tests problem-solving skills.

How to Answer:

• Briefly describe the challenge.

• Explain the action you took and the result.

Example:

“During a project, our team faced data errors that delayed progress. I took the initiative to create an error-tracking sheet, which reduced mistakes and got us back on schedule.”

10. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?

This shows interest and preparation.

How to Answer:

• Always ask at least one thoughtful question.

Examples:

• “What are the biggest challenges your team is currently facing?”

• “What does success in this role look like within the first 6 months?”