Most Nigerians accept the first number they are offered because negotiating feels rude or risky. It is neither. Employers expect a conversation, and the few minutes you spend here can be worth hundreds of thousands of naira a year.
Do your homework first
Know the going rate for your role, your years of experience and your city before you name any number. Salaries in Lagos and Abuja run higher than in smaller towns, and remote roles for foreign companies are a different market entirely. Ask people in similar roles and check the salary ranges on job posts.
Let them go first if you can
When asked your expectation early, it is fine to say "I would like to understand the full role and responsibilities first, but I am flexible and open." If pushed, give a range, not a single number, and make your target the bottom of that range.
Think total package, not just basic
Base salary is one part. Ask about the structure, because Nigerian pay is often split into basic, housing, transport and allowances that affect your pension and tax. Also weigh HMO, transport, data, bonus, pension and learning support. A slightly lower base with strong benefits can be the better deal.
Make the ask cleanly
Once you have an offer, if it is below your range, respond warmly and specifically: "Thank you, I am excited about this. Based on my experience with X and the market for this role, could we get the base to N___?" Give a reason, name a number, then stop talking and let them respond.
Know your floor and stay polite
Decide the lowest number you will accept before the call so you are not deciding under pressure. If they cannot meet it, ask about a salary review after six months in writing. Never accept a job you resent, and never burn the bridge if you decline.
Get the final offer in writing before you resign from anything. A verbal "we will sort it out" is not an offer.