The global work environment has changed permanently since the pandemic. Today, remote-first companies, which are designed to operate entirely online, are shaping the future of employment. For Nigerians, this change marks one of the most inclusive work revolutions in history.
As internet access improves across Africa and employers worldwide seek diverse, tech-savvy, and English-speaking talent, Nigerians are being hired by companies in North America, Europe, and Asia without needing to relocate.
Whether you are a software developer in Lagos, a graphic designer in Abuja, or a marketing strategist in Port Harcourt, remote-first organizations now provide access to global jobs, international salaries, and limitless career growth.
This article highlights the top global remote-first companies hiring Nigerians, what they do, how to apply, and how to succeed as a Nigerian remote worker.
1. GitLab – Global Collaboration Without Borders
GitLab is a pioneer of remote-first work. With over 2,000 employees in more than 60 countries, GitLab operates entirely online with no physical headquarters. The company has roles in software engineering, product design, technical writing, DevOps, and project management, all available to Nigerians.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- GitLab values diversity and has employees from all over Africa.
- Pay is set globally in USD, not locally.
- The company offers opportunities for professional growth through mentorship, open-source collaboration, and global exposure.
Typical Roles:
- Backend Engineer (Python, Go, or Ruby)
- Technical Writer
- Product Manager
- Security Engineer
Application Process:
- Visit GitLab’s Careers page and look for remote roles.
- Apply directly with your CV, portfolio, and GitLab username if you contribute to open source.
- Expect 2 to 3 rounds of virtual interviews.
Official Careers Link: https://about.gitlab.com/jobs
2. Zapier – Automate Your Career Growth
Zapier is a completely remote tech company that helps users automate workflows without code. The company employs people in over 35 countries and is known for its inclusive hiring policies that actively welcome applicants from Africa.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Focus on work-life balance and asynchronous work, allowing you to work at your own pace.
- Great pay for support, marketing, and technical roles.
- Known for providing equipment stipends and funding for professional development.
In-Demand Roles:
- Customer Support Specialist
- Automation Expert
- Product Marketing Manager
- Backend Engineer
Application Process:
Apply directly through Zapier’s portal, complete a skills test, and take part in virtual interviews. Remote onboarding is fully supported with global team integration.
Official Careers Link: https://zapier.com/jobs
3. Andela – Connecting African Talent to Global Companies
Founded in Nigeria, Andela has become one of the largest global marketplaces for remote African tech talent. It connects skilled Nigerian developers, designers, and engineers with companies in the US, Europe, and Asia.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Direct access to global companies like GitHub, Viacom, and Coursera.
- Salaries are internationally competitive.
- Nigerian tech professionals already make up a large portion of Andela’s workforce.
Available Roles:
- Full-Stack Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- UI/UX Designer
- Technical Recruiter
Application Process:
- Create a developer profile on Andela’s platform.
- Complete coding or design tests.
- If approved, you will be matched with companies looking for your skills.
Official Link: https://andela.com/for-engineers
4. Toptal – Remote Work for Top Freelancers
Toptal connects elite freelancers with clients worldwide. It is one of the highest-paying platforms for software developers, designers, finance experts, and project managers. Nigerians with top-tier skills and experience can earn international rates while working remotely.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Completely remote and location-independent.
- Work on projects with leading brands and startups.
- High pay, ranging from $40 to $150 per hour, for verified professionals.
How to Join:
- Apply on Toptal’s website.
- Pass skill tests and an interview.
- Once approved, get matched with global clients.
Official Link: https://www.toptal.com/talent/apply
5. Deel – Remote Work Meets Global Payroll
Deel is not just hiring, it is a remote-first company that helps other firms hire globally. With Nigerian clients and staff already on its payroll, Deel recruits remote professionals for roles in HR tech, customer experience, compliance, and accounting.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Completely distributed company with African representation.
- Offers opportunities in global HR and finance technology.
- Transparent salary bands and benefits in USD.
Open Roles Include:
- Customer Experience Associate
- Global Payroll Analyst
- Business Operations Coordinator
Official Link: https://www.deel.com/careers
6. Wikimedia Foundation – Knowledge Without Borders
The Wikimedia Foundation, which operates Wikipedia, works fully remotely and is known for hiring globally, including candidates from Africa.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Mission-driven organization promoting open access to knowledge.
- Remote contracts offer USD salaries and benefits.
- Great for writers, editors, developers, and communication specialists.
Popular Roles:
- Software Engineer (MediaWiki)
- Communications Associate
- Data Analyst
- Community Manager
Official Link: https://wikimediafoundation.org/careers
7. Remote.com – Building the Infrastructure for Global Work
Remote.com assists companies in hiring and paying employees anywhere in the world. They also have a large distributed team with many opportunities in engineering, design, customer success, and payroll operations.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Fully remote global workforce.
- Known for diversity and inclusion.
- Salaries are paid in USD or Euro with full benefits.
Typical Positions:
- Payroll Analyst
- Customer Success Manager
- Product Designer
- Global Compliance Specialist
Official Link: https://remote.com/careers
8. Hotjar – Remote UX and Product Analytics Company
Hotjar offers analytics tools that help businesses understand user behavior. It is a remote-first European company employing people from over 45 countries and is hiring Nigerians in product, data, and marketing roles.
Reasons Nigerians Should Apply:
- Strong culture of flexibility and remote well-being.
- Offers “working abroad” stipends and home office support.
- Great pay in euros with full benefits.
Open Positions Include:
- Product Manager
- Data Analyst
- Marketing Specialist
- Front-End Engineer
Official Link: https://www.hotjar.com/careers
9. Deel Partner Firms and Remote Marketplaces
Several global marketplaces and startups now use Deel to hire directly from Nigeria. Platforms like Remote OK, We Work Remotely, and LinkedIn Remote Jobs list numerous openings tagged “remote, Africa time zone preferred.”
Examples of Current Employers Hiring Nigerians via Deel:
- Shopify (Customer Support)
- Canva (Design Operations)
- HubSpot (Marketing & Sales)
Search Tools:
Tips for Nigerians Applying to Remote-First Companies
- Build a Global CV: Use international formatting with clear summaries, quantifiable results, and portfolio links such as GitHub, Behance, or LinkedIn.
- Strengthen Your Internet Setup: Most companies need a stable, high-speed connection for video interviews and daily communication.
- Use Dollar-Based Payment Platforms: Open verified accounts on Payoneer, Deel, or Wise to receive international salaries.
- Learn Time-Zone Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust work hours since some companies run on US or European schedules.
- Upskill Constantly: Take courses on Coursera, Google Career Certificates, or Udemy to compete globally.
- Join African Remote Communities: Groups like Tech Remote Africa and Remote OK Africa share verified jobs for Nigerians.
In 2025, the global job market is no longer defined by borders but by skill. From Lagos to London and Abuja to Amsterdam, talented Nigerians can now work for international employers without needing a visa.
Companies like GitLab, Zapier, Andela, Toptal, Deel, and Hotjar are leading this change, showing that where you live no longer limits what you can earn or achieve.
For Nigerians seeking freedom, financial growth, and global experiences, remote-first work is not just a trend; it is the new reality.
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