Many writers imagine networking as something formal or intimidating. They picture conferences, business cards, and carefully rehearsed introductions.
But networking for writers is often much simpler. It means placing yourself in spaces where other writers, editors, filmmakers, and readers already gather.
In cities like Lagos and Ibadan, those spaces exist everywhere. They include literary festivals, writing communities, book clubs, WhatsApp groups, and digital platforms where writers publish their work.
Below are twenty practical ways Nigerian writers can build strong networks and find opportunities.
1. Attend Literary Festivals and Book Events
Literary festivals remain one of the strongest networking environments for writers.
Events like the Aké Arts and Book Festival gather writers, publishers, journalists, and readers from across Nigeria and beyond. At these events, writers meet potential collaborators and learn about publishing opportunities.
Before attending, it helps to understand how these festivals work. For example, you can read this guide on Writertain:
All You Need to Know About Aké Arts and Book Festival
Preparing a short introduction about your writing can make networking easier.
2. Join Online Writing Communities
Many emerging writers grow faster when they join writing communities.
On Writertain Creatives, writers can publish stories, interact with other authors, and participate in writing contests and themed challenges.
These communities help writers grow together instead of struggling alone.
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3. Participate in Book Clubs
Book clubs are underrated networking spaces.
Writers who join book clubs meet readers, critics, and other writers. Conversations about books often lead to deeper discussions about storytelling and publishing.
Writertain has compiled a list of book clubs across Nigeria that writers can join.
4. Publish Your Work on Community Platforms
Networking becomes easier when people can read your work.
Platforms like Writertain allow writers to publish short stories, essays, and creative pieces. Once your work is public, people can discover you and start conversations around your writing.
Explore Stories and Articles on Writertain
5. Join WhatsApp Writing Communities
Many Nigerian writing opportunities circulate through WhatsApp groups.
These groups often share:
- writing competitions
- freelance writing jobs
- publishing opportunities
- scriptwriting calls
You can join the Writertain Writers Community here:
Join the Writertain Writers WhatsApp Community
6. Attend Open Mic Events
Open mic nights are common in Lagos and Ibadan. Writers read poetry, perform spoken word, or share short stories.
These events bring together poets, musicians, filmmakers, and other creatives.
Performing or attending regularly helps people remember you.
7. Comment on Other Writers’ Work
Networking sometimes begins with appreciation.
If you read a thoughtful article or story online, leave a meaningful comment. Writers notice readers who engage thoughtfully with their work.
Over time, conversations begin forming naturally.
8. Follow Nigerian Writing Newsletters
Newsletters have become powerful hubs for Nigerian creative communities.
They highlight opportunities, cultural discussions, and writing careers.
Top Nigerian Newsletters of 2025
9. Volunteer at Literary Events
If you cannot afford to attend every literary event, volunteering can help.
Volunteers often work closely with organizers and speakers, which allows them to build stronger connections.
Many volunteers later become event organizers themselves.
10. Join Writing Challenges
Writing challenges bring writers together around shared goals.
These challenges encourage writers to publish regularly and interact with other participants.
11. Collaborate With Other Creatives
Writers should not only network with other writers.
Filmmakers, musicians, designers, and marketers all need writers.
- Filmmakers need scriptwriters
- Brands need copywriters
- Musicians need lyricists
Creative collaboration often opens unexpected opportunities.
12. Attend Writing Workshops
Workshops create deeper connections than large conferences.
Participants discuss their writing, exchange feedback, and develop relationships that can last for years.
13. Build a Public Portfolio
Networking becomes easier when people can easily see your work.
Writers should build digital portfolios that contain their articles, stories, or essays.
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14. Participate in Literary Discussions Online
Platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and writing forums host daily discussions about storytelling, publishing, and writing craft.
Joining these discussions helps writers become visible within literary communities.
15. Share Opportunities With Other Writers
One of the fastest ways to become valuable in a community is by sharing useful opportunities.
These include:
- writing grants
- fellowships
- competitions
- calls for submissions
People remember those who help others find opportunities.
16. Reach Out to Writers You Admire
Many emerging writers hesitate to contact established writers.
A short message expressing appreciation for their work can start meaningful conversations.
17. Organize Small Writing Meetups
You do not need a large audience to build a community.
Even five writers meeting once a month in a café or library can create a powerful support network.
18. Turn Social Media Into a Writing Portfolio
Social media can function as a public writing portfolio.
Writers can share:
- short essays
- story excerpts
- writing tips
- book reflections
Over time, readers begin associating your profile with writing.
19. Participate in Writing Forums
Forums allow deeper discussions than typical social media posts.
Writers exchange ideas about storytelling techniques, publishing strategies, and writing challenges.
20. Stay Consistent and Visible
Networking rarely produces instant results.
Relationships develop gradually over time.
The writer you meet today may become a publisher, editor, or producer tomorrow.
Consistency matters. Attend events regularly, publish your work often, and stay active in writing communities.
Final Thoughts
The Nigerian literary scene is larger and more active than many people realize.
Writers are organizing festivals, launching newsletters, building book clubs, and creating digital platforms that support storytelling.
Platforms like Writertain Creatives already host stories, writing guides, and opportunities that help writers connect with readers and other creatives.
The more visible your work becomes, the easier it is for the right people to find you.
