Shopify Review for Nigerians: Is It the Best eCommerce Platform for You?

Starting an online business in Nigeria? You’ve probably come across Shopify—one of the world’s most popular eCommerce platforms.

But here’s the big question:

Is Shopify the best choice for Nigerian entrepreneurs?

Let’s break it all down in this detailed Shopify review tailored specifically for Nigerians.

Is Shopify the best choice for Nigerian entrepreneurs?

Table of Contents

• What is Shopify?

• How Shopify Works

• Shopify Pricing in Nigeria

• Payment Gateways and Local Payment Support

• Shopify Features for Nigerian Businesses

• Pros and Cons of Using Shopify in Nigeria

• Shopify vs Local Alternatives

• FAQs About Shopify in Nigeria

• Final Verdict

What is Shopify?

Shopify is a cloud-based eCommerce platform that allows you to create an online store, list products, accept payments, and manage orders—all from one dashboard.

Unlike platforms like WooCommerce (which require hosting and manual setup), Shopify provides an all-in-one solution that’s easy to use even for beginners.

How Shopify Works

Using Shopify is straightforward:

1. Sign Up – Create an account on Shopify.com.

2. Choose a Template – Select from hundreds of pre-designed store themes.

3. Add Products – Upload your product images, descriptions, and pricing.

4. Set Up Payments – Integrate payment methods suitable for Nigerian customers.

5. Launch Your Store – Publish and start selling!

   
   

Shopify Pricing in Nigeria

One of the biggest concerns for Nigerians is pricing. Shopify offers different plans:

• Basic Shopify – $39/month

• Shopify Standard – $105/month

• Advanced Shopify – $399/month

Pro Tip: If you’re just starting out, go with the Basic plan. You can always upgrade as your business grows.

Payment Gateways and Local Payment Support

Since Shopify doesn’t support Paystack or Flutterwave directly, Nigerian sellers often use third-party integrations.

Here’s how you can accept payments in Nigeria:

1. PayPal – Works but has limitations for receiving funds in Nigeria.

2. Flutterwave – Can be integrated using third-party apps.

3. Paystack – Works with Shopify via a workaround.

4. Cryptocurrency Payments – Some sellers enable this for international buyers.

   
   

Workaround: Many Nigerian Shopify sellers use Paystack or Flutterwave with Shopify Payments by routing transactions through supported countries (e.g., the UK or US).

Shopify Features for Nigerian Businesses

1. Mobile-Optimized Stores

Since most Nigerians shop using mobile phones, Shopify ensures your store looks great on all devices.

2. Inventory and Order Management

Track your stock levels, manage deliveries, and automate order processing.

3. Marketing Tools

Shopify provides SEO tools, email marketing, and Facebook/Instagram integrations.

4. Multiple Currency Support

Sell in Naira while accepting international payments in USD, GBP, or EUR.

5. Shipping & Fulfillment

Shopify partners with DHL, FedEx, and other shipping companies, but you’ll need to arrange local deliveries with GIG Logistics, Kwik Delivery, or Sendbox.

Pros and Cons of Using Shopify in Nigeria

Pros

1. Easy to set up and manage.

2. Professionally designed themes.

3. Global reach – Sell to customers worldwide.

4. SEO and marketing tools included.

5. Secure payment processing.

   
   

Cons

1. Expensive compared to local options.

2. No built-in Paystack or Flutterwave support.

3. Transaction fees unless using Shopify Payments.

   
   

Shopify vs Local Alternatives

Wondering if Shopify is better than local options like Flutterwave Store, Paystack Store, or Konga Mall?

Here’s a comparison:

Feature	Shopify	Paystack Store	Flutterwave Store	Konga Mall
Customization	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
International Sales	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐
Payment Options	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Marketing Tools	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐
Shipping Support	⭐⭐⭐	⭐	⭐	⭐⭐⭐

FAQs About Shopify in Nigeria

Can I use Shopify in Nigeria?

Yes, Shopify works in Nigeria, but you may need to use third-party payment integrations like Paystack or Flutterwave.

How do I receive payments in Naira?

You can integrate Paystack or Flutterwave via a workaround or receive PayPal payments if you have a verified business account.

Is Shopify better than WooCommerce?

If you need an easy-to-use, all-in-one platform, Shopify is better. If you want more flexibility and lower costs, WooCommerce is a good alternative.

Does Shopify charge transaction fees?

Yes, Shopify charges transaction fees if you don’t use Shopify Payments (which isn’t available in Nigeria). Fees range from 2.0% to 2.9% per sale.

Can I sell on Shopify without a registered business?

Yes, you don’t need a registered business to start selling on Shopify, but it’s recommended for long-term operations.

Final Verdict

So, should you use Shopify in Nigeria?

If you want a scalable, easy-to-use, and globally recognized eCommerce platform, Shopify is a great choice.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or need seamless Paystack/Flutterwave support, consider local alternatives.

Choose Shopify if you want a professional store with global reach.

Use local platforms if you’re selling mainly to Nigerian customers.

Whichever option you choose, the most important thing is to start selling!

Simon Taki Zaku,

Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng

For Ibifoundry.com.ng/blog