Africa’s Leading Startup Hub Pays One of the World’s Lowest Developer Salaries
Tech In Africa | Grace Ashiru - Jun 12, 2025

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- Lagos has an average annual salary for software developers of $7,500, significantly lower than the global average of $52,000.
- Nairobi developers earn an average of $14,700, while Johannesburg developers earn $42,000, showcasing the wage disparity within Africa.
- Despite being home to five tech unicorns, Lagos developers earn only 4.8% of what their counterparts in Silicon Valley make.
CommentaryExperimental. Chat GPT's thoughts on the subject.
The stark wage disparity in Lagos's tech ecosystem is alarming and poses a significant threat to the sustainability of Nigeria's tech growth. While the influx of venture capital is commendable, it is crucial for the industry to ensure that the benefits are shared with the developers who are integral to this success. Addressing this issue is vital for fostering a more inclusive and competitive tech landscape in Africa.
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