CV Format in Nigeria that Gets You That Job
When preparing a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in Nigeria, it’s important to follow a format that is professional, concise, and tailored to the job you are applying for. Your CV should highlight your qualifications, skills, work experience, and accomplishments in a structured and easy-to-read format.
Here’s a recommended CV format in Nigeria:
1. Personal Information
This section should be at the top of your CV and should include your basic contact details. Keep it brief and to the point.
Example:
- Full Name: Adebola James Akinwale
- Phone Number: +234 812 345 6789
- Email Address: adebolaakinwale@gmail.com
- Address: 12, Oluwole Street, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
- LinkedIn Profile (optional): www.linkedin.com/in/adebolaakinwale
- Date of Birth (optional): March 15, 1990
- Marital Status (optional): Single/Married
- Nationality: Nigerian
2. Personal Statement/Objective
This is a 2–3 sentence summary of your career goals and what you bring to the table. It should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for and should emphasize your strengths, skills, and experience.
Example:
“A dedicated and results-oriented Project Manager with over 5 years of experience in managing complex projects in the construction industry. Skilled in team leadership, resource management, and meeting project deadlines. Seeking to leverage my expertise to contribute to innovative projects at [Company Name].”
3. Professional Experience
List your work experience in reverse chronological order (starting with the most recent). Include relevant roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments.
Example:
Project Manager
XYZ Construction Limited, Lagos
April 2020 – Present
- Led a team of 20 in completing construction projects valued at ₦50 million.
- Managed project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure completion within deadlines.
- Improved operational efficiency by 15% through process improvements.
- Regularly liaised with clients, architects, and suppliers to meet project specifications.
Assistant Project Manager
ABC Real Estate, Abuja
January 2017 – March 2020
- Assisted in overseeing 10+ residential construction projects.
- Monitored project progress and coordinated with vendors for timely delivery of materials.
- Implemented a new tracking system that reduced project delays by 10%.
4. Education
List your educational qualifications, starting with the most recent degree. Include the name of the institution, degree, and the date of graduation.
Example:
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Civil Engineering
University of Lagos, Lagos
2012 – 2016
- Graduated with a Second Class Upper Division (2:1)
West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE)
King’s College, Lagos
2006 – 2012
5. Certifications & Training
List any certifications or professional courses relevant to the job you are applying for. This helps to show continuous learning and skill development.
Example:
- Project Management Professional (PMP) – Project Management Institute (PMI), 2019
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP) – Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals, 2020
- Construction Management Course – Lagos Business School, 2021
6. Skills
Highlight the key skills that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. This section can be divided into technical skills and soft skills.
Example:
Technical Skills:
- Project Management
- AutoCAD & Revit (Construction Software)
- Budgeting and Cost Control
- Risk Assessment & Safety Management
Soft Skills:
- Leadership & Team Management
- Excellent Communication
- Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking
- Time Management
7. Volunteer Experience (Optional)
If you have relevant volunteer experience, you can add this section to demonstrate your involvement in community or professional development activities.
Example:
Volunteer Coordinator
Habitat for Humanity, Lagos
July 2019 – December 2019
- Organized and supervised a team of 50 volunteers in constructing homes for low-income families.
- Coordinated with local authorities and sponsors for funding and materials.
8. Hobbies & Interests (Optional)
This section is optional but can be included to give employers insight into your personality. Make sure that your hobbies align with the role or highlight soft skills like teamwork, creativity, or leadership.
Example:
- Reading business and technology journals
- Traveling and cultural exploration
- Volunteering for community development projects
9. Referees
Most employers in Nigeria will ask for two or three referees who can vouch for your character and qualifications. Make sure you ask permission before listing someone as a referee.
Example:
Dr. John Olumide
Professor, University of Lagos
Email: johnolumide@unilag.edu.ng
Phone: +234 812 345 6789
Mrs. Funke Adeyemi
Manager, XYZ Construction Ltd
Email: funkeadeyemi@xyz.com
Phone: +234 812 987 6543
CV Formatting Tips:
- Length: Keep your CV to 2 pages at most, unless you have extensive experience.
- Font Style: Use a professional font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, size 10-12.
- Bullet Points: Use bullet points to list responsibilities and achievements clearly.
- Consistency: Maintain consistent formatting (font size, spacing, and bolding) throughout the CV.
- Tailor for Each Job: Customize your CV for each job application by emphasizing the most relevant skills and experience for that particular role.
By following this format, you’ll have a professional and well-organized CV that meets the expectations of employers in Nigeria. Always remember to proofread your CV carefully to avoid errors and present your best self to potential employers!