Investing in Nigerian Startups: A Guide for the Diaspora

As a young Nigerian who has navigated both the London and Lagos investment scenes, I am often asked: "How do I actually invest in startups back home?"

Know your investment thesis

Are you betting on fintech, agritech, healthtech, or B2B SaaS? Each has different risk profiles and exit timelines.

Understand the instruments

Get comfortable with SAFE notes and convertible instruments. They dominate pre-seed deals here, unlike the priced equity rounds common in Europe.

Network intentionally

The best deals in Lagos rarely appear on formal platforms. Join WhatsApp groups, attend Demo Africa, and find a trusted lead investor to co-invest with.