Co-working spaces are growing fast in Nigeria. More people now work remotely, run startups, freelance, or manage small businesses. They need flexible office spaces that are affordable, comfortable, and professional. This is why many entrepreneurs want to run a successful co-working space business in a Nigerian city.
However, opening a co-working space is not just about renting a building and adding tables. You need planning, good management, the right location, strong marketing, and excellent customer service. This guide explains everything you need to know in very simple words.
If you want to run a successful co-working space business in a Nigerian city, this article will help you from start to growth.
What Is a Coworking Space
A co-working space is a shared office where different people work independently but in the same environment. Users pay daily, weekly, or monthly fees to use desks, offices, internet, and other facilities.
People who use co working spaces include:
• Remote workers
• Startups
• Small businesses
• Consultants
• Tech founders
Co-working spaces offer flexibility and lower costs compared to traditional offices.
Why Coworking Spaces Are Popular in Nigerian Cities
Many Nigerian cities are seeing high demand for co-working spaces.
Reasons include:
• Increase in remote work
• Growth of tech startups
• Power and internet challenges at home
• Need for professional workspaces
Cities like Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Abeokuta are good locations to run a successful co-working space business in a Nigerian city.
Steps to Run a Successful Co-working Space Business in a Nigerian City
Step 1: Research Your Target City
Before you start, study the city you want to operate in.
Ask these questions:
• Are there universities nearby
• What is the average rent cost
• Are there existing co working spaces
• What do people complain about current spaces
Research helps you avoid mistakes and identify opportunities.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
Location is one of the most important factors.
A good location should have:
• Safety and security
• Stable power supply
• Good internet coverage
• Parking space
If your location is difficult to reach, people will not come, no matter how good your space is.
Step 3: Decide Your Coworking Space Model
There are different types of co-working spaces.
Common models include:
• Private offices
• Meeting rooms
• Virtual office services
• Event spaces
You can combine different options to increase income. Choosing the right model helps you run a successful co-working space business in a Nigerian city.
Step 4: Create a Simple Business Plan
You do not need a complex plan. Keep it simple.
Your plan should include:
• Monthly expenses
• Pricing structure
• Target customers
• Marketing strategy
• Expected profit
A clear plan helps you manage money and grow sustainably.
Step 5: Register Your Business Properly
Register your co-working space with CAC.
You may need:
• Tax identification number
• Local permits
• Fire and safety approval
Proper registration builds trust and avoids future problems.
Step 6: Set Up the Space Comfortably
Comfort is very important.
Your space should have:
• Reliable internet
• Power backup
• Clean restrooms
• Good lighting
• Quiet areas
People stay longer and renew subscriptions when they feel comfortable.
Step 7: Provide Reliable Internet and Power
In Nigeria, power and the internet are critical.
Ensure you have:
• Backup internet provider
• Generator or inverter
• Fuel management plan
Reliable utilities help you run a successful co-working space business in a Nigerian city without complaints.
Step 8: Price Your Services Wisely
Pricing must be fair and competitive.
Consider:
• Weekly plans
• Monthly subscriptions
• Student discounts
• Startup packages
Avoid pricing too high at the beginning. Focus on building a loyal customer base.
Step 9: Create Clear Rules and Policies
Rules keep the space organized.
Set rules for:
• Booking systems
• Internet usage
• Payment terms
• Access hours
Clear rules prevent conflicts and improve user experience.
Step 10: Hire the Right Staff
You may not need many staff at first.
Important roles include:
• Cleaner
• IT support
Friendly and professional staff improve customer satisfaction.
Step 11: Market Your Coworking Space Effectively
Marketing is very important.
Use these channels:
• Google My Business
• Website with SEO
• Local partnerships
• Referral programs
If people do not know your space exists, they cannot use it.
Step 12: Use Social Media Smartly
Social media helps attract young professionals.
Post content like:
• Member testimonials
• Events and workshops
• Discounts and offers
Social media builds trust and visibility.
Step 13: Partner With Local Communities
Partnerships help growth.
Collaborate with:
• Startup hubs
• Universities
• Business groups
Partnerships bring steady users and credibility.
Step 14: Offer Value Added Services
Extra services increase income.
Examples include:
• Networking events
• Mentorship sessions
• Printing services
• Mail handling
Value added services help you run a successful co working space business in a Nigerian city more profitably.
Step 15: Focus on Customer Experience
Happy customers stay longer.
Improve experience by:
• Fixing issues quickly
• Maintaining cleanliness
• Upgrading facilities
Customer satisfaction drives word of mouth marketing.
Step 16: Track Expenses and Income
Always track your finances.
Monitor:
• Power costs
• Internet costs
• Staff salaries
• Maintenance
Good financial control prevents losses.
Step 17: Use Technology for Management
Use simple tools to manage operations.
Examples include:
• Payment systems
• Access control
• CRM tools
Technology saves time and reduces errors.
Step 18: Handle Security Properly
Security builds trust.
Ensure:
• Secure entry points
• Locker systems
• Visitor tracking
People want to feel safe while working.
Step 19: Adapt to Market Changes
The market changes often.
Stay flexible by:
• Adding new services
• Improving internet speed
• Expanding space
Adaptation helps long term success.
Step 20: Scale Gradually
Do not rush expansion.
Scale by:
• Opening new locations
• Offering virtual services
Growth should be steady and planned.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes:
• Ignoring power issues
• Overpricing services
• Weak marketing
• Poor customer service
Avoiding mistakes helps you run a successful co working space business in a Nigerian city with less stress.
Benefits of Running a Coworking Space
Benefits include:
• Growing demand
• Community building
• Business networking
• Long term growth
It is a profitable business when managed well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is co working space business profitable in Nigeria
Yes, especially in cities with young professionals
How much capital is needed
It depends on location and size
Is internet more important than design
Yes, internet is critical
Can small spaces succeed
Yes, if well managed
Conclusion
Learning how to run a successful co-working space business in a Nigerian city requires planning, patience, and smart management. Focus on location, comfort, reliable internet, power, pricing, marketing, and customer experience.
Start small, learn from feedback, and grow steadily. Nigerian cities offer huge opportunities for co working spaces. With the right strategy, your space can become profitable and sustainable.
Also Read:How to Start a Professional Cleaning and Fumigation Services Company
