How to Use SEO to Promote Your Nigerian Businesses Globally

Have you ever wondered why some Nigerian businesses are thriving globally while others struggle to break out of their local communities?

The answer is simple: visibility. And one of the most powerful tools to gain that visibility is SEO (Search Engine Optimization).

When I started my journey in SEO over a decade ago, I had no idea it would become the tool that could turn small ideas into global sensations.

Back then, it was just me, a laptop, and endless curiosity about how the internet worked.

Fast forward to today, I’ve helped startups, online stores, agencies, and busy entrepreneurs across industries create SEO content and growth-hack their traffic like pros.

One story still gives me goosebumps: A struggling business reached out to me with virtually zero online presence.

We put in the work - optimizing their website, creating killer content, and fine-tuning their SEO strategy. Within months, they grew from 0 to over 40,000 organic clicks from Google alone!

This isn’t magic - it’s the power of SEO. And guess what?

Nigerian businesses can tap into this same power to take their brands from local to global.

With over 122 million internet users in Nigeria, SEO is no longer optional - it’s a necessity if you want to be seen, heard, and patronized.

But where do you begin?

Let me break it down for you.

What is SEO?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the practice of improving your website’s visibility on search engines like Google.

It involves optimizing your site’s content, structure, and technical aspects to ensure it ranks higher for relevant keywords.

Think of Google as a massive library. SEO helps your website show up as the recommended book for readers searching for your specific topic.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of what SEO is and how it works, check out my guide on What SEO Is and How It Works.

SEO in Nigeria

Over the past few years, SEO has been on the rise in Nigeria as businesses realize its immense potential.

According to data, over 81% of people research products or services online before making purchasing decisions. 

This means if your business isn’t visible online, you’re leaving money on the table.

Here’s why SEO is a game-changer for Nigerian businesses:

• It helps you stand out in a competitive market by ranking higher than your competitors.

• It’s a cost-effective way to attract quality traffic without spending a fortune on ads.

• It positions your business as a trusted brand, which is crucial for gaining customer trust.

Whether you’re a local tailor in Lagos or a tech startup in Abuja, SEO can help you reach your audience globally.

Getting Started with SEO for Your Nigerian Business

Now that you know what SEO is and why it’s essential, let’s talk about how to get started. Follow these steps to build a strong SEO foundation for your business:

Create a Business Profile

Start by defining who your business is and what it stands for. Here are key questions to answer:

• Who is your target audience?

• What problems does your business solve?

• What are your short-term and long-term goals?

This step is critical because a clear business profile will guide your entire SEO strategy.

Sign Up for Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile is a free tool that helps your business show up in local search results. To sign up:

• Go to Google Business Profile.

• Provide your business details, such as name, address, and phone number.

• Verify your business to ensure it appears on Google Maps and local searches.

This step alone can significantly increase your visibility to local customers.

Set Up Your Website

Your website is the foundation of your online presence. Here’s what to do:

• Choose a memorable domain name that reflects your business.

• Use a reliable hosting provider. My top 5 recommendations include:

  • Bluehost: Great uptime and excellent customer support.

  • Namecheap: Affordable with robust security features.

  • SiteGround: Fast speeds and advanced tools.

  • HostGator: Perfect for scalability.

  • Whogohost: A local Nigerian hosting provider tailored for your needs.

Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, fast, and easy to navigate.

Create Diversified Content

Content is king in SEO. You need to create valuable, engaging content that speaks to your audience.

Here are a few ideas:

• Write blog posts answering your customers’ most common questions.

• Create videos showcasing your products or services.

• Share tips and updates on social media.

Diversifying your content helps you connect with your audience across multiple platforms, boosting your reach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is SEO and how does it work?

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of improving your website to rank higher on search engines like Google. It works by optimizing your site’s content, structure, and technical aspects to make it more appealing to search engines.

Why is SEO important for Nigerian businesses?

With over 122 million internet users in Nigeria, SEO helps businesses gain visibility online, attract quality traffic, and convert leads into customers.

How can I start implementing SEO for my Nigerian business?

You can start by creating a business profile, setting up a Google Business Profile, building a website, and creating diverse content.

How long does it take to see results from SEO?

SEO is a long-term strategy. Depending on your efforts and competition, it may take several months to see significant results.

What’s the difference between local SEO and general SEO?

Local SEO focuses on improving your visibility in a specific geographic area, while general SEO targets a broader audience.

Let Us Help You Kickstart & Run Your SEO for Your Nigerian Business

SEO can transform your business from a local gem to a global success story—but it all starts with the right strategy.

At IBI Foundry, we offer:

• Free SEO Audits: Know where your website stands and how to improve.

• Custom SEO Services: Tailored to your specific business needs.

• Exclusive Tips via Our Newsletter: Sign up to stay ahead in the game.

Let’s work together to make your business a global brand!

Simon Taki Zaku,

Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng

For Ibifoundry.com.ng/blog