INTRODUCTION
Cover letter forms an important document required for seeking employment or jobs, applying for scholarships.
Many Nigerians ignore this particular document, for some, they just do not know how to write one.
In Nigeria’s competitive job and scholarship space, a well-written cover letter can make a big difference. While your CV shows your qualifications, a cover letter explains why you are applying and why you are a good fit for the role.
Unfortunately, many Nigerians either ignore cover letters or write generic ones that hurt their chances. Some simply repeat their CV, while others use copied templates that recruiters have seen hundreds of times.
This guide explains how to write a winning cover letter in Nigeria, step by step, in a simple and practical way.
What Is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a short document sent alongside your CV. It introduces you to the employer or selection panel and explains your interest in the role.
A good cover letter should:
- Be clear and professional
- Show genuine interest
- Highlight relevant skills or experience
- Encourage the reader to check your CV
Why a Cover Letter Matters in Nigeria
Many recruiters in Nigeria use cover letters to:
- Filter serious applicants
- Assess communication skills
- Understand motivation
- Shortlist candidates for interviews
For scholarships, a cover letter often replaces or supports a motivation statement.
When You Should Write a Cover Letter
You should write a cover letter when:
- A job application requests one
- Applying via email
- Applying for internships or volunteer roles
- Applying for scholarships or training programmes
If a job advert does not say “cover letter required,” sending one can still give you an advantage.
Structure of a Good Cover Letter in Nigeria
A professional cover letter should follow a simple structure.
1. Header and Greeting
Include:
- Your name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Date
Use a polite greeting such as:
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear Sir/Madam,
Avoid informal greetings like “Good day boss.”
2. Opening Paragraph (Introduction)
This paragraph should state:
- The position you are applying for
- Where you found the opportunity
Example:
I am writing to apply for the Administrative Assistant position advertised on your website.
3. Middle Paragraph (Why You Are a Good Fit)
This is the most important part.
Here, you should:
- Highlight relevant skills or experience
- Mention achievements related to the role
- Show how you can add value
- Avoid repeating your CV word for word.
Tip: Focus on skills, not just qualifications.
4. Closing Paragraph
Use this section to:
- Reaffirm your interest
- Mention that your CV is attached
- Thank the reader
Example:
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills can contribute to your organization. Thank you for your time and consideration.
5. Professional Sign-Off
End with:
- Yours sincerely,
- Yours faithfully,
Then your full name.
Simple Cover Letter Example (Nigeria-Friendly)
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Graduate Trainee position advertised on your company website. I am a recent graduate of Business Administration with strong communication and organizational skills.
During my internship, I assisted with administrative tasks, data entry, and customer support, which helped me develop teamwork and problem-solving skills. I am eager to contribute positively and grow within your organization.
I have attached my CV for your review. Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
Jane Sunday
CommonCover Letter Mistakes Nigerians Make
Avoid these mistakes:
- Copying templates without editing
- Writing very long letters
- Repeating your CV exactly
- Using informal language
- Submitting a cover letter with spelling errors
A short, clear letter is better than a long one.
Cover Letter Tips That Work in Nigeria
- Keep it one page or less
- Tailor it to each role
- Use clear and simple English
- Save as PDF unless instructed otherwise
- Proofread before sending
Cover Letter for Scholarships
When writing a cover letter for scholarships:
- Emphasize academic goals
- Mention leadership or volunteer experience
- Show how the scholarship aligns with your future plans
Scholarship panels value clarity and motivation.
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Final Thoughts
A winning cover letter does not need to be complex. What matters most is clarity, relevance, and sincerity. When written well, a cover letter can significantly improve your chances of being shortlisted for jobs, internships, and scholarships in Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is a cover letter compulsory in Nigeria?
Not always, but it is strongly recommended for professional applications to give you an edge over other candidates.
Q2: How long should a cover letter be?
One page or less is ideal. Recruiters often spend less than 30 seconds scanning your application.
Q3: Can I use the same cover letter for all jobs?
You can use the same general structure, but you must tailor the content for each specific role to show relevance.
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