Sweat equity has become an essential strategy for startups in Nigeria to attract and retain top talent while aligning team contributions with long-term business goals. However, navigating the tax implications of sweat equity arrangements can be challenging for founders and contributors.

In this publication, TEMPLARS Partner, Sesan Sulaiman, and Associate, Nafisa Haliru, outline practical steps for structuring sweat equity to comply with Nigerian tax laws, address valuation and timing challenges, and manage cross-border tax issues.

This guide offers founders a clear path to minimize tax exposure while staying compliant.