How to write an application letter in Nigeria (with structure)

A clear application letter structure for Nigerian jobs — private sector and civil service — plus what to avoid.

By Cephas Tope

What this is

An application letter (cover letter) introduces you before the CV. In Nigeria it is still requested for many private roles, teaching posts, and some government or NGO processes. Use a formal layout: your address and date at the top, then the hiring manager or “The Human Resources Manager”, company name, and city. Open with the exact role title and where you saw it (for example, “the Accountant role on Handmework”). Paragraph two should connect your strongest results to the job requirements. Paragraph three can cover availability, location (Lagos, Abuja, willingness to relocate), and any licence or language edge. Close politely with a request to interview and your phone number. Keep it to half a page or one page max. Match the tone of the employer: banks and oil & gas stay formal; startups can be slightly warmer but still professional. Never attach a letter that asks the employer to “help you” without stating value, and never pay anyone to “submit” a letter on your behalf. Pair the letter with a tailored CV from the Handmework CV builder, then apply through the verified listing or official portal only.

What to do first

Use a real vacancy with a company name. Write only dates, titles, and results you can defend in an interview. Apply through the method on the listing. Never pay a processing fee or share an OTP. Save the PDF and the date you sent it. If the employer did not post pay, leave money off the document.

Common mistakes

Use a real vacancy with a company name. Write only dates, titles, and results you can defend in an interview. Apply through the method on the listing. Never pay a processing fee or share an OTP. Save the PDF and the date you sent it. If the employer did not post pay, leave money off the document.

How Handmework fits

Use a real vacancy with a company name. Write only dates, titles, and results you can defend in an interview. Apply through the method on the listing. Never pay a processing fee or share an OTP. Save the PDF and the date you sent it. If the employer did not post pay, leave money off the document.

After you apply

Use a real vacancy with a company name. Write only dates, titles, and results you can defend in an interview. Apply through the method on the listing. Never pay a processing fee or share an OTP. Save the PDF and the date you sent it. If the employer did not post pay, leave money off the document.

Frequently asked questions

How long should an application letter be in Nigeria?

Half a page to one page. Three short paragraphs plus a formal greeting and closing is enough.

Do I still need an application letter if I apply online?

If the portal has a cover-letter field or asks for one PDF pack, yes. Otherwise a strong CV and tailored answers may be enough — follow the vacancy instructions.

Can I use the same letter for every job?

No. Change the role title, company name, and two bullets of proof so it matches each vacancy.

Should I invent numbers or survey stats?

No. Only use figures the employer posted or results you can defend in an interview.