Project management is one of the fastest-growing professions globally, and Nigeria is no exception. With industries like construction, IT, banking, and oil & gas requiring structured project execution, there is a rising demand for certified project managers.
A project management certification is a globally recognized qualification that proves you have the knowledge, experience, and skills to manage projects efficiently. This article will guide you through the best project management certification in Nigeria, where to get training, how much it costs, and tips to pass your exam.
What is a project management certification?
A project management certification is a professional credential that validates your ability to plan, execute, monitor, and complete projects effectively. It is typically awarded by internationally recognized organizations like:
- Project Management Institute (PMI) – Offers PMP & CAPM certifications
- AXELOS – Offers PRINCE2 certifications
- Scrum Alliance & PMI – Offers Agile and Scrum certifications
Having a project management certification can significantly boost your job prospects, earning potential, and career growth in Nigeria.
Why get a project management certification in Nigeria?
- Higher earning potential: Certified project managers earn up to 44% more than non-certified managers.
- Increased job opportunities: Many companies require project managers to have recognized credentials.
- Industry recognition: A globally recognized certification gives you an edge over competitors.
- Networking & career growth: Certifications provide access to exclusive PMI, PRINCE2, and Agile communities where you can connect with professionals worldwide.
Types of project management certifications in Nigeria
PMP (Project Management Professional) – PMI
- Globally recognized certification.
- Best for experienced professionals managing complex projects.
- Covers project planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) – AXELOS
- Popular in Nigeria, UK, and Europe.
- Process-based certification, great for structured project management.
CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) – PMI
- Entry-level certification for those new to project management.
- Covers fundamental project management principles.
Agile & Scrum Certifications
- Best for IT and tech industries.
- Covers Agile frameworks, Scrum methodology, and iterative project execution.
- Examples: PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner), Certified Scrum Master (CSM).
Exam details for project management certifications in Nigeria
| Certification | Exam Format | No. of Questions | Passing Score | Duration | Open/Closed Book | Source |
| PMP (Project Management Professional) | Multiple Choice, Multiple Responses, Drag & Drop, Matching | 180 | Determined by psychometric analysis | 230 minutes (with two 10-minute breaks) | Closed Book | PMI Official Website |
| PRINCE2® 7 Foundation | Multiple Choice | 60 | 36 out of 60 (60%) | 60 minutes | Closed Book | AXELOS Official Website |
| PRINCE2® 7 Practitioner | Objective Testing | 70 | 42 out of 70 (60%) | 150 minutes | Open Book (Only Official PRINCE2® 7 Manual Allowed) | AXELOS Official Website |
| CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) | Multiple Choice, Hot Spot, Drag & Drop, Animations, Comic Strips | 150 | PMI does not disclose the exact passing score | 180 minutes | Closed Book | PMI CAPM Certification |
| Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) | Multiple Choice | 50 | 37 out of 50 (74%) | 60 minutes | Closed Book | Scrum Alliance CSM |
| Professional Scrum Master™ I (PSM I) | Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer, True/False | 80 | 68 out of 80 (85%) | 60 minutes | Closed Book | Scrum.org PSM I |
| Disciplined Agile Scrum Master (DASM) | Multiple Choice | 50 | PMI does not disclose the exact passing score | 90 minutes | Closed Book | PMI DASM Certification |
| SAFe® Scrum Master (SSM) | Multiple Choice | 45 | 33 out of 45 (73%) | 90 minutes | Closed Book | Scaled Agile SSM |
NOTE: The exam details for the above certifications are subject to change, so be sure to check out their respective sites to get the most up to date information.
Best accredited training providers in Nigeria
Here are some of the best project management training providers in Nigeria offering PMP, PRINCE2, and Agile courses:
Piston & Fusion
- Offers PMP training, CAPM, and PRINCE2 certification.
- Provides mock exams and study resources.
PMI Nigeria
- Official chapter of PMI in Nigeria.
- Provides PMP training, networking events, and study materials.
ClarionGR
- Specializes in PMP & PRINCE2 training.
- Offers both in-person and online classes.
Harrybaker Training
- Offers high-quality PMP and Agile training.
- Provides online and classroom options.
Simplilearn & Unichrone
- Global e-learning platforms offering self-paced PMP courses.
How to get a project management certification in Nigeria
- Meet the specific project management certification requirements.
- Enrol in training program: Choose an accredited provider.
- Apply for the certification exam through the medium provided by the body.
- Pay the exam fee.
- Schedule your exam.
- Pass & get certified!
Cost of project management certification in Nigeria
PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification – PMI
- PMI membership fee: $139 per year
- Exam fees:
- For PMI members: $405
- For non-members: $555
- Training costs in Nigeria:(Varies by provider)
- Harrybaker Training: ₦100,000 (Self-paced) / ₦220,000 (Virtual live) (Exam fees not included)
- Clarion College: ₦130,000 (Training only)
PRINCE2 Certification – AXELOS
- Exam fees:(Varies by exam provider)
- PRINCE2 Foundation exam: ~$235
- PRINCE2 Practitioner exam: ~$235
- Combined Foundation & Practitioner Exams: ~$395
- Training costs in Nigeria:(Varies by provider)
- Harrybaker Training: ₦100,000 (Self-paced) / ₦220,000 (Virtual live) (Exam fees not included)
- Phillips Consulting: ₦420,000 (Includes training + Foundation & Practitioner exam fees)
CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) – PMI
- Exam fees:
- For PMI members: $225
- For non-members: $300
- Training costs: (Varies by provider, but typically between ₦90,000 – ₦200,000)
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) – Scrum Alliance
- Exam fee (Included in course price): ~$995 – $1,500 (Varies by provider)
- Training costs: (Varies by provider, usually between ₦250,000 – ₦500,000 in Nigeria)
SAFe® Scrum Master (SSM) – Scaled Agile, Inc.
- Exam fee (Included in course price): $674 (First attempt is free with training; retakes cost $50)
- Training costs in Nigeria: (Varies by provider, usually between ₦300,000 – ₦600,000)
Final thoughts
Getting a project management certification in Nigeria is a game-changer for career growth. Whether you choose PMP, PRINCE2, CAPM, or Agile, investing in training and certification will set you apart from the competition.
