Delayed pay, then no pay, is one of the most common ways young Nigerians get robbed of their work. The law is on your side, but your records are what win. Here is both.
1Agree it in writing before you start: scope, rate, and the exact payment date.
2Keep a timesheet. Log every task with the date, hours, and what you delivered.
3Invoice clearly, with the work, the amount, and a due date.
4If payment is late, send a dated written demand naming the agreement and the amount owed.
5Keep every message, file, and approval. The paper trail is your case.
These protections cover ‘workers’ (employees). If you are an independent freelancer or contractor, the Labour Act may not cover you: your written agreement is your protection, and unpaid work is a breach of contract you can pursue. Either way, the records below are what win.