Can You Legally Conduct Background Checks on Employees in Nigeria?

By YourChecka on ยท 1 min read

Background checks are legal in Nigeria when done responsibly and with consent. Here is how to stay compliant with the NDPA while protecting your business.

A growing company wanted to check a job applicant's previous employment and home address but hesitated. The HR manager worried that a background check might violate the applicant's privacy. Like many employers in Nigeria, they were unsure where the law draws the line between business protection and individual privacy.

The short answer

The short answer is that yes, background checks are legal in Nigeria as long as they are carried out in a responsible, ethical manner and with the person's informed consent. It is reasonable for employers to check the information given by prospective employees, particularly in cases where the role involves finance, access to sensitive information, the care of children or the elderly, or the management of valuable assets. Nevertheless, background screening must always adhere to the relevant laws, such as the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) and other applicable privacy requirements. Companies should limit themselves to collecting only the information that is necessary, secure consent, protect personal data, and avoid any discriminatory actions.

Privacy at the centre

At YourChecka, privacy is central to everything we do. Before collecting any information, we get the candidate's consent and have them sign an Affidavit of Undertaking. Our experienced team then lawfully verifies information in the field, contacts guarantors, checks addresses, gathers character references, and prepares a detailed report.

We help businesses and families make informed decisions, drawing on 20 years of intelligence experience. Our methods help spot malicious intent, encourage accountability through biometrics and affidavits, and give investigators a valuable head start if an incident occurs.

Make sure to conduct background checks legally, ethically, and professionally. Visit YourChecka to see how we can help you hire with confidence while respecting privacy and the law.

All articles