Introduction

One of the toughest parts of being a screenwriter in Nigeria—or anywhere—is knowing how to price your work. Many new writers undervalue themselves, while others price too high and scare away buyers.

So how do you strike the right balance? On Write Worth, pricing is transparent, but it’s up to the writer to set fair terms. Here’s how to negotiate like a pro.

Mistake: Undervaluing Your Work

Many Nigerian writers sell scripts for as little as ₦50,000–₦100,000, far below industry value.
Fix: Research market rates. A strong Nollywood-ready feature-length script often ranges from ₦500,000 to ₦2,000,000, depending on quality and genre.

Mistake: Overpricing Without Proof

Asking for too much without experience or proven credits can push producers away.
Fix: Start with fair pricing and build your reputation. As your scripts sell and reviews build up, you can raise your rates.

Pro Tips for Negotiating

1. Know Your Minimum Price – Before entering talks, know the lowest you’re willing to accept.

2. Justify Your Price – Highlight script length, uniqueness, and genre demand.

3. Be Open to Bidding – Auctions on Write Worth can drive your script’s value higher.

4. Leverage Escrow – Remind producers that escrow protects both sides, building confidence in the deal.

5. Think Long-Term – Sometimes a fair first deal opens doors to multiple future opportunities.

Why This Matters in Nigeria

The Nigerian film industry is competitive, but it is also profitable and growing. Writers who price fairly and negotiate well position themselves as professionals producers can trust.

Conclusion

Negotiation is a skill every writer must master. By avoiding undervaluing, justifying your worth, and using tools like Write Worth’s escrow and auctions, you can sell your screenplay with confidence.