Nigerian tech professionals face a unique set of challenges that can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. The demands of the tech industry often mean working under tight deadlines with intense pressure to deliver projects at rapid speeds, leaving little room for error. These high expectations are driven by stakeholders who push for results that match or exceed global standards but often without providing the necessary resources to achieve them. Professionals frequently find themselves racing against the clock to meet impossible deadlines, a situation that can lead to burnout and feelings of inadequacy when goals are not met.
Isolation compounds these pressures, as tech roles—especially in remote or freelance settings—can be inherently lonely. While working from home offers flexibility, it often eliminates the camaraderie and social support of a physical workplace. This sense of loneliness can be exacerbated in environments where open communication and team bonding are not prioritized. Worse still, some companies foster a toxic work culture where criticism is constant and praise is rare. This lack of encouragement can erode morale and create a cycle of negativity that affects mental well-being. Without a supportive environment, tech professionals are more susceptible to feelings of isolation, frustration, and a diminished sense of purpose.
In addition to challenging work conditions, the financial rewards in the Nigerian tech sector often do not reflect the hard work and skill that professionals bring to the table. Many tech workers are underpaid, especially considering the high cost of living in Nigeria and the financial responsibilities they bear. For some, the frustration comes not just from low salaries but also from delayed or inconsistent payments. This financial instability makes it hard for tech professionals to plan their lives, further increasing stress levels. They may also feel an overwhelming pressure to keep up with the fast-paced evolution of technology. The tech world is constantly changing, with new frameworks, languages, and tools emerging at a dizzying pace. Keeping up requires constant learning, but the demand to master new skills quickly can be daunting, particularly without guidance or financial support for upskilling.
Government policies add another layer of complexity. In Nigeria, tech regulations can be unpredictable, and policies often lack the clarity or stability that businesses need to thrive. Tech professionals are sometimes caught off-guard by sudden policy changes that affect their projects or business models. These shifts can make the industry feel unreliable, with long-term planning rendered almost impossible. Nigerian tech workers must also contend with the pressures of a global job market. Competing against international peers for roles often means working twice as hard for recognition, adding an extra layer of stress. Meanwhile, companies expect their teams to keep up with global standards, further pressuring professionals to constantly upskill and improve.
The career paths available to Nigerian tech workers are not always clear, which can leave professionals feeling trapped or uncertain about their futures. Unlike in more established tech markets, where career growth paths are structured, in Nigeria, professionals may find themselves stagnating in roles with limited upward mobility. This lack of direction can make them question their career choices and prospects. Adding to this, cultural attitudes in Nigeria sometimes stigmatise mental health struggles, discouraging individuals from seeking help or openly discussing their challenges. Traditional societal expectations may place additional burdens, with success measured heavily by financial achievements, particularly for men.
This societal pressure can make tech professionals feel like they are constantly failing, even when they are doing well by global standards.
Then there are the ever-present power issues in Nigeria, which are a daily source of frustration. Frequent power outages mean that tech workers often have to invest in costly generators or alternative power sources just to keep working. These interruptions can slow down productivity, creating a sense of helplessness and making it challenging to meet already tight deadlines. The emotional toll is significant, as unforeseen circumstances constantly interfere with workflow, making the job far more difficult than it should be.
Balancing work and family life is another struggle for many tech professionals, as the demands of the industry often intrude on personal time. Long hours can mean missing family events, neglecting personal relationships, and feeling guilty about not spending enough time with loved ones. This balancing act is difficult, as the job’s demands rarely allow for genuine rest or quality family time. Compounding this, there is a lingering fear of job insecurity, especially as layoffs are common in the tech world. This fear creates constant anxiety, with professionals feeling pressured to prove their worth and worried about how they would manage financially if they lost their jobs. Job hunting in a competitive market, even for experienced professionals, can be a gruelling process with no guarantees.
All these factors collectively create a high-stress environment where Nigerian tech professionals struggle with mental health challenges. The tech industry in Nigeria must acknowledge these issues and actively work towards creating a more supportive, balanced, and sustainable working environment.
•Qazeem Oladejo writes from Lagos