Introduction
In today’s globalized economy, talent outsourcing has become a strategic move for companies striving to remain competitive. Particularly for Canadian companies, Nigeria presents an attractive location for outsourcing due to its burgeoning talent pool and strategic economic positioning in Africa. However, one critical decision that Canadian companies must navigate is whether to hire local employees or dispatch foreign employees to Nigeria. This article delves into the costs, risks, and strategic benefits of both approaches and why partnering with a trusted payroll/EOR (Employer of Record) provider like Gonex can be the optimal solution.
Cost Analysis: Local Employees vs. Foreign Employees
Salary Expectations
When comparing the salary expectations of local Nigerian employees versus foreign employees, the differences are stark. Local employees typically command lower salaries due to the local cost of living and market standards. For instance, the average salary for a skilled professional in Nigeria can range between NGN 2.5 million and NGN 5 million annually (approximately CAD 7,500 to CAD 15,000), depending on the industry and level of expertise.
On the other hand, dispatching foreign employees comes with significantly higher salary demands. Canadian expatriates may expect salaries aligned with Canadian standards, which can be substantially higher. For example, a mid-level professional in Canada might earn between CAD 60,000 to CAD 80,000 annually. This disparity highlights the cost savings potential of hiring locally in Nigeria.