Updated 2026-06-17

How to check a company before accepting a job in Nigeria

Before accepting a job, verify the employer, offer terms and work conditions. A real company can still have bad employment practices.

Quick answer

Check a company by verifying its name, website, office, CAC presence where relevant, recruiter identity, offer letter, salary terms, staff reviews and contract clauses. Be careful with fees, vague duties and pressure to resume without written terms.

This guide is written for Nigerians who need a practical next step. It gives the direct answer first, then shows what to verify, what to prepare, what mistakes to avoid and which related Explainer.NG pages can help.

What to verify

Start with identity: company name, address, website, recruiter email and whether the role appears on an official channel. Then check the offer itself: salary, benefits, work mode, probation and notice.

CAC public search can help confirm a registered entity, but it does not prove the employer is fair or financially stable.

  • Company name
  • Office address
  • Recruiter email
  • Offer letter
  • Salary and benefits
  • Probation terms
  • Notice period

Red flags

Be careful with employers asking for training fees, medical fees or equipment deposits before employment. Also watch for unclear job descriptions, unpaid trial work and refusal to issue written terms.

If reviews mention repeated salary delays, unrealistic targets or staff mistreatment, ask careful questions before accepting.

Before signing

Read non-compete, bond, repayment, confidentiality and termination clauses. Ask for clarification in writing.

Keep a copy of the offer and contract. If salary, remote work or benefits were promised verbally, ask for them to be added to the offer letter.

Checklist

  • Verify recruiter
  • Check company identity
  • Read offer letter
  • Ask about benefits
  • Check red flags
  • Keep written terms

People also ask

Does CAC registration prove the job is safe?

No. It only confirms registry information.

Should I pay a training fee?

Be very cautious; legitimate employers usually do not charge candidates to hire them.

Can I ask for contract before resuming?

Yes, written terms protect both sides.

Should I check employee reviews?

Yes, but read patterns rather than one comment.

What if salary is verbal?

Ask for written confirmation before accepting.