- The daily hustle and bustle in Nigeria can be quite stressful, coupled with the high cost of transportation due to the constant fuel scarcity or hike in fuel price
- The idea of working from home is quite appealing when these issues are put into consideration
- Here are 10 reasons why working from home could be the best decision for you
In recent years, working from home has become increasingly popular, especially after the global pandemic of the year 2020. While it might not work for every profession, many Nigerians are now enjoying the perks of remote work.
Here are 10 benefits of working from home in Nigeria.
Benefits of working from home
1. Saves time and money on commute
In major Nigerian cities like Lagos, traffic can be a nightmare. Commuting can take hours, and transport costs can take up a huge chunk of your salary as a result of fuel scarcity or a hike in fuel price, which happens quite often. Working from home eliminates these stress factors. You get to save money you would have spent on transportation and use that time for more productive activities.
2. Increased flexibility
One of the biggest perks of working from home is flexibility. You can set your schedule, for work that is not urgent, which means you can work when you feel most productive. Whether you're an early riser or a night owl, you have the freedom to adjust your work hours to suit your lifestyle. You can also handle personal tasks without asking for permission or rushing out.
3. Better work-life balance
Working from home allows you to strike a healthier balance between your personal life and career. You can spend more time with family and friends, have hobbies, or even rest more. This balance can help reduce stress and prevent burnout, which is common in fast-paced work environments.
4. Reduced stress
Office environments in Nigeria can be stressful due to high expectations, workplace politics, or even noise. At home, you can create a peaceful working environment that suits your needs. This will help you stay focused and reduce the anxiety often associated with traditional work settings. Additionally, when you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, you can easily take a break and do something as refreshing as taking a quick shower to cool off. It’s a small but effective way to reset your mind and return to work feeling refreshed.
5. Cost savings
Working from home cuts down on a lot of expenses. No need to buy fancy work clothes, no daily transport costs, and less money spent on eating out. You can cook your meals, dress comfortably, and enjoy savings that you can put towards other things.
6. Increased productivity
Many people are more productive at home. Without the distractions of colleagues stopping by your desk or endless office meetings, you can focus better on your tasks. You can also take breaks whenever necessary to recharge and return to work with a clearer mind.
7. More control over your environment
When you work from home, you have complete control over your workspace. You can set up your home office just the way you like it. Whether you want a quiet corner with plants, good lighting, or your favourite music playing softly in the background, you get to decide.
8. Opportunities for self-development
Working from home gives you time to explore self-development opportunities. With the extra hours saved from commuting, you can take online courses, read books, or practice skills that can help you grow both personally and professionally.
9. Healthier lifestyle
When you work from home, you can make healthier lifestyle choices. You have time to prepare nutritious meals instead of relying on fast food, and you can easily fit in quick workout routines or stretches during the day. This is especially important given the busy schedules most Nigerians face daily.
10. Better work opportunities
With remote work, you're not limited to jobs within your local area or country. You can apply for international jobs, freelance gigs, or work with companies from around the world. This broadens your job prospects and allows you to earn in foreign currency, which can be especially valuable given the current exchange rates.
Unemployment rate in Nigeria reached 5.4% in 2023 – NBS
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said the national unemployment rate reached 5.4 per cent with 4,792,296 Nigerians under the working-age population unemployed in 2023.
According to the NBS, there are 116.6 million, representing 53.8 per cent of the total population, in the working age group with women accounting for 52 per cent while the population of men was 48 per cent.