Consulting Agreement Template for Nigeria

The Consulting Agreement is a vital legal instrument used in Nigerian business practice to establish and govern professional consulting relationships. It is essential for organizations engaging external expertise while maintaining compliance with Nigerian legal requirements, including the Labour Act and CAMA 2020. This document clearly distinguishes consulting relationships from employment, addresses intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and payment terms, and includes necessary provisions for anti-corruption compliance. The agreement is adaptable for various consulting arrangements, from individual consultants to large professional services firms, and can be customized for specific industry requirements while maintaining its core legal framework under Nigerian law.

1. Parties: Identification of the consulting party and the client, including registration details for companies or identification for individuals

2. Background: Context of the consulting arrangement and brief description of the client's business and consulting needs

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement, including 'Services', 'Deliverables', 'Confidential Information', etc.

4. Appointment and Scope of Services: Clear designation of consultant's appointment and detailed description of services to be provided

5. Term and Termination: Duration of the agreement and circumstances under which either party may terminate

6. Consultant's Obligations: Key responsibilities, performance standards, and commitments of the consultant

7. Client's Obligations: Client's responsibilities including provision of information, access, and cooperation

8. Fees and Payment Terms: Compensation structure, payment schedule, expenses, and invoicing procedures

9. Confidentiality: Protection of confidential information and trade secrets

10. Intellectual Property Rights: Ownership and rights to work product, pre-existing IP, and licenses

11. Independent Contractor Status: Clear statement of consultant's independent status and not an employee

12. Anti-Corruption Compliance: Compliance with Nigerian anti-corruption laws and international standards

13. Limitation of Liability: Extent and limitations of consultant's liability

14. General Provisions: Standard clauses including notices, amendments, governing law, and dispute resolution