How to Buy a Domain Name in Nigeria (Step by Step)
- Simon Zaku
- Apr 19
- 6 min read
The first domain name I ever bought was called Zakxloaded.com.
Crazy name, I know — but back then, I was just getting started. This was over 10 years ago, and the process wasn’t as smooth as it is today.
Back then, I had no idea what a domain name registrar was, or even how to make an international payment online from Nigeria.
I’ll never forget struggling to use my Zenith MasterCard only to get denied by most foreign websites. But fast forward to today?
It’s way easier now, especially if you know where to look and what to use.
So in this article, I’ll walk you step-by-step through the entire process — how to buy a domain name in Nigeria, how to pay internationally (even with all the Nigerian bank wahala), and what tools make it easier.
Ready?
Table of Contents
What Is a Domain Name?
What Is a Domain Name Registrar?
How to Buy Domain Name on Namecheap (Step-by-step)
How to Buy Domain Name on GoDaddy (Step-by-step)
How to Buy Domain Name on Bluehost (Step-by-step)
How to Buy Domain Name on Hostinger (Step-by-step)
How to Buy a Domain from Nigeria
How to Buy a Domain with Crypto
How to Buy .com.ng and .ng Domain Names
Top Domain Registrars for .NG Domains
Final Verdict
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Domain Name?
A domain name is your unique address on the internet — just like a house address in real life.
For example, Google’s domain name is google.com. If you wanted to visit your own site, you’d need a unique domain like yourbrand.com or ibifoundry.ng.
Think of it as the name people will type into their browser to find your blog, portfolio, business or idea.
What Is a Domain Name Registrar?
A domain registrar is a company that helps you register and manage your domain name.
They are the middlemen between you and the global domain name database. Once you buy a domain name from them, it becomes yours (as long as you keep renewing it every year).
Popular registrars include Namecheap, GoDaddy, and local Nigerian options like Whogohost.
How to Buy Domain Name on Namecheap (Step-by-step)
Namecheap is one of the most popular domain registrars globally, and for good reason.
They’re affordable, easy to use, and they even throw in free privacy protection.
If you’re in Nigeria, you’ll also love that they accept multiple international cards (and crypto too).
Here’s how to get your domain name on Namecheap:
Visit www.namecheap.com
Use the search bar to check if your desired domain is available
Click “Add to Cart”
Create an account or sign in
Select your registration period (1–10 years)
Proceed to checkout
Pay using your e-dollar card, crypto or PayPal
How to Buy Domain Name on GoDaddy (Step-by-step)
GoDaddy is another giant in the domain and web hosting world.
They’ve been around for decades, and while they’re a bit pricier than Namecheap, many Nigerians prefer them due to their interface and additional services like email hosting.
Before jumping into the steps, make sure you have an international card or e-dollar card ready.
Here’s how to buy your domain name on GoDaddy:
Go to www.godaddy.com
Use the search tool to find a domain name
Add your domain to the cart
Skip the add-ons if you don’t need them
Sign in or create an account
Enter your payment details
Complete your purchase
How to Buy Domain Name on Bluehost (Step-by-step)
Bluehost is especially great if you’re planning to build a blog or website right after buying your domain.
Why?
They bundle domain + hosting + WordPress installation all in one.
This makes the process fast and beginner-friendly.
Here’s how to do it:
Visit www.bluehost.com
Click “Get Started”
Choose a hosting plan (you get a free domain included)
Search for your desired domain
Fill in your personal and payment info
Complete checkout
How to Buy Domain Name on Hostinger (Step-by-step)
Hostinger is another solid and budget-friendly option.
Their interface is modern and very beginner-friendly. They also offer free domains when you purchase hosting.
Personally, I’ve used Hostinger multiple times for clients and side projects.
Let’s go through the steps:
Go to www.hostinger.com
Select a hosting plan (with free domain included)
Search for your preferred domain
Enter your personal info
Choose payment method (including e-dollar cards)
Complete purchase
How to Buy a Domain from Nigeria
Let’s not pretend — buying anything internationally from Nigeria comes with its fair share of wahala.
Most Nigerian Naira cards don’t work on foreign websites. Even when they do, you’re often limited to $20 or less per month.
I can’t count how many times I lost clients because I couldn’t pay for simple tools like domains, hosting or email software.
In fact, when I started freelancing, I tried using PayPal (which doesn't work here), Payoneer (had issues), and even Flutterwave.
Eventually, I discovered Paystack, which suited my brand better.
But when it comes to online international payments today, the game has changed.
Thanks to e-dollar card providers, you can now fund a virtual dollar card in seconds and make payments easily from Nigeria.
Top 10 E-dollar Card Services Nigerians Can Use:
Geegpay (My top recommendation)
Chipper Cash
Payday
Changera
Barter by Flutterwave
ALAT Virtual Dollar Card
Grey Finance
Wallets Africa
Sudo Africa
Klasha
Need to pay for a domain, hosting or Netflix? These platforms make it seamless.
How to Buy a Domain with Crypto
Cryptocurrency is becoming an alternative way to pay for services — including domains.
Many registrars like Namecheap now accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
To buy a domain with crypto:
Register an account with Namecheap or a crypto-friendly registrar
Search and select your domain
Proceed to checkout and choose "Crypto" as your payment method
Complete the payment via your crypto wallet (e.g., Trust Wallet, Binance, etc.)
How to Buy .com.ng and .ng Domain Names
If you want a domain that screams Nigerian identity, you’ll want a .ng or .com.ng domain.
These domains are great for Nigerian businesses, NGOs, and brands targeting a local audience.
To buy a .ng domain:
Visit a Nigerian-based registrar like Whogohost, DomainKing, Smartweb, or QServers
Search for your domain name (e.g., yourbrand.com.ng)
Add to cart and checkout using local payment options (bank transfer, card, etc.)
Top Domain Registrars for .ng Domains
Whogohost – One of the biggest in Nigeria
DomainKing.ng – Great for .ng domains
Smartweb.com.ng – Nigerian web host and domain provider
QServers.net – Affordable local registrar
Final Verdict
Here’s the truth:
No one-size-fits-all when it comes to buying domain names. Your choice depends on what you need, your budget, and whether you're focused on local or international audiences.
If you’re just getting started and want an affordable, smooth experience — go with Namecheap for .com domains or Whogohost for .ng domains. They’re trusted, beginner-friendly, and offer flexible payment options.
Got crypto? Use Namecheap and enjoy a no-card-needed transaction.
Need everything bundled (domain, hosting, WordPress)? Try Bluehost or Hostinger.
And if your only headache is the Nigerian card wahala, platforms like Geegpay, Chipper Cash, or Payday are your best bet.
At the end of the day, you have options.
Just pick what fits your goal — personal blog, client work, business site, or future empire — and go for it.
The important thing is to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I permanently buy a domain name?
You can’t buy a domain permanently. Domains are rented yearly or for up to 10 years at a time.
How much is a domain in Naira?
It depends on the extension. A .com might cost ₦7,000–₦15,000. A .com.ng might cost ₦1,500–₦5,000.
Which site is best to buy a domain name?
For international domains: Namecheap. For Nigerian domains: Whogohost.
How do I buy a legit domain?
Use trusted registrars like Namecheap, GoDaddy, or Whogohost. Always verify before purchasing.
Can I get a domain for free?
Some hosting platforms offer free domains with hosting plans. But for serious use, paid domains are better.
Can I make my own domain?
Yes — if it's available and you register it via a registrar.
How much does a domain cost?
Anywhere from ₦1,500 to ₦20,000+ depending on the domain and registrar.
Can I get a domain name for free forever?
No. All domains need to be renewed after a certain period.
How long can a domain name last?
You can register it for 1–10 years, then renew when it expires.
Who owns the domain?
You do — once you register it in your name/email.
Can I have a domain without hosting?
Yes, you can own a domain name without attaching hosting to it. It just won’t show anything online until you host it.
Simon Taki Zaku,
Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng
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