If you’ve been posted to Lagos for your NYSC service year, congratulations! You’re heading to Nigeria’s business capital, where opportunities are endless. But here’s the thing: not all PPAs (Places of Primary Assignment) are created equal.
Some companies will pay you well, offer training, and even provide accommodation. Others? Not so much. The key is knowing where to look and how to position yourself for the best placements.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top companies accepting corps members in Lagos, what they pay, which ones offer accommodation, and exactly how to land these coveted spots. Whether you’re into tech, finance, oil and gas, or consulting, there’s something here for you.
Ready to make your service year count? Let’s dive in.
Why Your PPA Choice Matters
Your PPA isn’t just where you’ll spend the next 12 months. It’s where you’ll gain real work experience, build your professional network, and possibly land your first job after NYSC. In Lagos especially, where the cost of living is high, choosing a PPA that pays well can make the difference between struggling and thriving during your service year.
Here’s what a good PPA in Lagos offers:
Better stipends. While the federal government pays corps members ₦77,000 monthly (as of 2024), many Lagos companies add their own allowances ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦200,000 per month.
Career exposure. Working at top firms like Shell, Deloitte, or MTN gives you hands-on experience and impressive credentials for your CV.
Networking opportunities. Lagos is where business happens. The professionals you meet during NYSC could become mentors, colleagues, or business partners down the line.
Possible retention. Many companies use NYSC as a recruitment pipeline. Perform well, and you might get offered a permanent role after service.
Top Companies for NYSC PPA in Lagos (With Stipend Ranges)
Let me break down the best companies that regularly accept corps members in Lagos, what they pay, where they’re located, and what roles are typically available.
1. Deloitte Nigeria
What they do: One of the Big Four consulting firms, offering audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services.
Estimated stipend: ₦60,000 to ₦200,000 per month (varies by department and role)
Location: Civic Towers, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island
Common roles: Audit support, tax assistance, consulting projects, data handling, client support
Why it’s great: Deloitte offers structured training programs, exposure to real client work, and strong CV value. Many corps members who perform well get considered for their graduate trainee program.
Accommodation: Not typically provided, but the stipend helps cover Lagos rent.
How to apply: Visit Deloitte Nigeria Careers, apply through their graduate programs section, and indicate your NYSC status.
2. Shell Nigeria
What they do: Global energy company focused on oil, gas, and sustainable energy solutions.
Estimated stipend: ₦80,000 to ₦200,000 per month
Location: Freeman House, 21/22 Marina, Lagos Island
Common roles: HSE (Health, Safety, Environment) support, admin, technical assistance, communications, project coordination
Why it’s great: Shell is known for world-class training, structured onboarding, and impressive brand value. You’ll work on environmental and energy projects that look amazing on your resume.
Accommodation: Some reports indicate accommodation allowances for certain roles. Always ask during your interview.
How to apply: Check Shell Careers for graduate programs and NYSC opportunities. Strong CGPA in engineering, geology, or environmental sciences helps.
3. Dangote Group
What they do: Nigeria’s largest conglomerate with interests in cement, sugar, salt, flour, and more.
Estimated stipend: ₦50,000 to ₦170,000 per month (varies across units)
Location: Victoria Island and Lekki offices, plus manufacturing sites around Lagos
Common roles: Admin support, production assistance, sales, logistics, quality control
Why it’s great: You get exposure to large-scale industrial operations and possible pathways to their graduate trainee program. Some units offer training programs and accommodation support.
Accommodation: Some Dangote facilities provide accommodation or housing allowances, especially for manufacturing roles. Confirm during application.
How to apply: Visit Dangote Careers and look for internship or NYSC opportunities.
4. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
What they do: Another Big Four firm specializing in audit, tax, and consulting services.
Estimated stipend: ₦50,000 to ₦120,000 per month
Location: Victoria Island, Lagos
Common roles: Audit support, tax assistance, business advisory support
Why it’s great: PwC offers excellent training, mentorship, and career development opportunities. It’s one of the highest-paying PPAs in Lagos.
Accommodation: Not typically provided.
How to apply: Apply through PwC Nigeria Careers. A second-class upper (2:1) degree or better increases your chances.
5. KPMG Nigeria
What they do: Global audit, tax, and advisory services firm.
Estimated stipend: ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 per month
Location: Victoria Island, Lagos
Common roles: Audit, tax support, client services, data analysis
Why it’s great: Strong professional training and exposure to multinational clients.
Accommodation: Not provided.
How to apply: Check KPMG Nigeria Careers and apply directly.
6. MTN Nigeria
What they do: Leading telecommunications company providing mobile services across Nigeria.
Estimated stipend: ₦40,000 to ₦130,000 per month
Location: Falomo, Victoria Island, and other corporate sites
Common roles: Customer support, network operations, marketing support, IT assistance
Why it’s great: You get telecom industry exposure, brand experience, and training. MTN also offers career advancement opportunities for standout corps members.
Accommodation: Some roles may include accommodation support. Ask during your interview.
How to apply: Visit MTN Nigeria Careers and check for NYSC or internship programs.
7. Interswitch
What they do: Nigeria’s leading fintech and payment platform company.
Estimated stipend: ₦40,000 to ₦83,000 per month
Location: Victoria Island and Lekki tech hubs
Common roles: Tech support, operations, product administration, QA assistance
Why it’s great: You’ll get valuable fintech exposure and insight into Nigeria’s digital payment ecosystem.
Accommodation: Not typically provided.
How to apply: Check Interswitch Careers for openings.
8. APM Terminals
What they do: Global port and terminal operations company.
Estimated stipend: ₦80,000 to ₦100,000 per month
Location: Apapa Port area (Apapa, Tin Can Island)
Common roles: Logistics, supply chain, admin, operations support
Why it’s great: Hands-on logistics and port operations experience, plus competitive pay.
Accommodation: Not typically provided, but some roles may include transport support given the Apapa location.
How to apply: Apply through APM Terminals Careers.
9. Banks (GTBank, Access, First Bank, Zenith, UBA)
What they do: Retail and commercial banking services.
Estimated stipend: ₦40,000 to ₦150,000 per month (GTBank and Zenith are known to pay higher)
Location: Victoria Island, Marina, Lekki, Ikeja branches and corporate headquarters
Common roles: Teller support, customer service, operations, admin
Why it’s great: Banking operations exposure and possible fast-track graduate programs. Banks like GTBank and First Bank are known for converting strong performers into full-time employees.
Accommodation: Rarely provided.
How to apply: Visit individual bank career pages: GTBank Careers, Access Bank Careers, First Bank Careers.
10. Nestlé Nigeria
What they do: Food and beverage manufacturing company.
Estimated stipend: ₦40,000 to ₦65,000 per month
Location: Ilupeju factory and corporate locations
Common roles: Production support, logistics, admin, supply chain, quality control
Why it’s great: FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) industry experience, possible meal/transport arrangements, and structured training.
Accommodation: Some reports indicate meal support and transport allowances. Confirm during application.
How to apply: Check Nestlé Nigeria Careers.
11. Unilever Nigeria
What they do: Global FMCG company producing household brands like Knorr, Lipton, Lux, and Close-Up.
Estimated stipend: ₦140,000 to ₦170,000 per month
Location: 1 Billings Way, Oregun, Ikeja
Common roles: Marketing support, production, sales, supply chain
Why it’s great: Excellent brand exposure, career growth programs, and employee benefits.
Accommodation: Not typically provided.
How to apply: Apply via Unilever Careers.
12. Guinness Nigeria / Nigerian Breweries
What they do: Brewing and beverage companies.
Estimated stipend: ₦40,000 to ₦120,000 per month
Location: Various (Ilupeju, Oregun, Ikorodu)
Common roles: Marketing support, production, sales, quality control, distribution
Why it’s great: Brand exposure, product training, and distribution experience.
Accommodation: Not typically provided.
How to apply: Visit Guinness Nigeria Careers and Nigerian Breweries Careers.
Companies That Provide Accommodation in Lagos
Finding accommodation in Lagos can be challenging and expensive. Here are companies and organizations known to provide accommodation or housing allowances for corps members:
1. Some Boarding Schools
Private boarding schools in Lagos often provide free accommodation for corps members serving as teachers. Schools in areas like Ikorodu, Epe, and Badagry are more likely to offer this.
How to find them: Search for “boarding schools in Lagos” and contact them directly to ask about NYSC accommodation.
2. International Organizations and NGOs
Organizations like UNICEF partners, ActionAid, and Save the Children sometimes offer shared housing or housing allowances for corps members working on community development projects.
Estimated stipend: ₦10,000 to ₦90,000 per month (depending on donor funding)
How to apply: Search ReliefWeb for NGO opportunities in Nigeria.
3. Dangote Group (Selected Roles)
Some Dangote manufacturing facilities and sites provide accommodation for corps members, especially those in production or technical roles.
How to find out: Ask specifically about accommodation during your interview or application process.
4. Some Hotels and Hospitality Companies
Hotels like Transcorp Hilton and other hospitality businesses occasionally provide lodging support for corps members in housekeeping, front desk, or operations roles.
How to apply: Contact hotel HR departments directly.
Pro Tip on Accommodation
Always ask about accommodation during your interview, even if it’s not advertised. Many companies are open to negotiating housing support or allowances, especially if you’re serving far from your home base. Don’t be shy, it could save you hundreds of thousands in rent!
How to Land the Best PPAs in Lagos: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting a top PPA in Lagos isn’t just about luck. It’s about strategy, preparation, and timing. Here’s exactly how to do it:
Step 1: Start Early (2 to 3 Months Before Posting)
Don’t wait until you get to camp. Top companies fill their NYSC slots fast, sometimes even before orientation camp starts. Begin your search and applications at least two to three months before your expected posting date.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready
You’ll need these documents for most PPA applications:
- NYSC call-up letter
- University degree certificate (or statement of result)
- Updated CV/resume
- Passport photographs
- Valid ID (national ID, voter’s card, or driver’s license)
- Academic transcripts (for competitive firms)
Keep digital and physical copies ready.
Step 3: Build a Strong CV
Your CV should highlight:
- Your degree and CGPA (especially if you have 2:1 or first-class)
- Relevant skills (IT, communication, data analysis, project management)
- SIWES experience or previous internships
- Volunteer work and extracurricular activities
- Certifications (Microsoft Office, digital marketing, coding, etc.)
Tailor your CV to match each company’s needs. For example, if you’re applying to a tech company like Interswitch, emphasize your tech skills and projects.
Step 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Most top-paying companies don’t rely solely on NYSC posting. They ask corps members to apply directly through their careers portals. Visit company websites, look for “Graduate Programs,” “Internships,” or “NYSC Opportunities,” and submit your application.
Pro tip: Many companies use aptitude tests and interviews as part of their selection process. Be ready to take tests in areas like numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and general knowledge.
Step 5: Network Like Crazy
Use LinkedIn, Twitter, and NYSC Facebook/WhatsApp groups to connect with:
- HR personnel at your target companies
- Former corps members who served at those companies
- Alumni from your school working in Lagos
Ask for advice, referrals, and insider tips. Networking can get your application noticed faster.
Step 6: Join NYSC Community Groups
Join these online communities where corps members share PPA leads:
- NYSC Lagos Batch WhatsApp groups
- TalentAmigo community for vetted job leads
- Facebook groups like “NYSC 2025 Batch A/B/C”
- LinkedIn NYSC groups
These groups often share inside information on companies accepting corps members, application deadlines, and interview tips.
Step 7: Follow Up Politely
After submitting your application, follow up with a polite email or phone call to HR a week later. It shows you’re serious and keeps your name on their radar.
Step 8: Be Open to Opportunities
While you should aim high, don’t dismiss smaller companies or NGOs. They often provide better mentorship, hands-on training, and might even pay decently. Balance your stipend needs with learning opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Service Year Count
Landing a great PPA in Lagos can transform your NYSC experience from just another mandatory year into a career launchpad. The companies I’ve listed here offer competitive stipends, valuable training, and real career opportunities.
But here’s the truth: the best PPAs won’t come looking for you. You need to be proactive, apply early, network strategically, and follow up persistently.
Start by picking 5 to 10 companies from this list that align with your skills and career goals. Visit their websites, tailor your CV, and submit applications today. Don’t wait until you get to camp.
And remember, your NYSC year is what you make of it. Work hard, build relationships, learn as much as you can, and before you know it, you’ll have that discharge certificate in hand plus a network and experience that will serve you for years to come.
Ready to find your perfect PPA? Explore job opportunities on TalentAmigo and connect with other corps members who can help you navigate your service year in Lagos. Let’s make it count!
Good luck, and welcome to Lagos!
