Search Results

Meet Ishema Danjuma - a young, brilliant Nigerian artist and ceramicist who is taking bold steps to revive and revolutionize the art scene from Wukari, Taraba state, Nigeria. Currently studying art at Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa state, Nigeria. Ishema’s passion and talent shine through her intricate works. I first heard about Ishema through a mutual connection, Collins Danjuma, and was immediately intrigued by her creativity and drive. It struck me: *How can someone so talented not yet be widely recognized? This feature is not just a celebration of her work but a call to action to support emerging artists like her and promote the value of Nigerian and African art on the global stage. From her fine paintings to innovative ceramic pieces, she has already begun carving a niche for herself. She’s also gaining practical experience at a ceramics company in Abuja, Nigeria’s bustling capital city. The Art Landscape in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities Art in Nigeria is as diverse as the country itself, yet many artists face significant hurdles. Despite the rich cultural history and talent, art often takes a backseat in societal priorities, overshadowed by industries like entertainment and technology. Ishema believes that a shift in perception is necessary to unlock the true potential of Nigerian art and amplify its global impact. Exclusive Q&A with Ishema Danjuma To delve deeper into her artistic journey and the state of Nigerian art, I had the privilege of posing a few thought-provoking questions to Ishema. Here’s a sneak peek into her responses: Q1: What inspired you to pursue art, and how did ceramics become a part of your journey? Ishema: First of all, I am from Wukari, Taraba state, Nigeria. Art has always been a part of me. Growing up, I was fascinated by how colors and forms could tell stories. Ceramics, specifically, became an interest during a university project where I discovered the versatility of clay _ how it could transform from raw earth into something meaningful and functional. Q2: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an artist in Nigeria? Ishema: One of the main challenges is the lack of awareness and appreciation for art. People often see art as a luxury rather than a necessity, which limits its market potential. Access to quality materials and funding is another hurdle that many young artists face. Q3: Why do you think Nigerians, in general, don’t value art as much as they should? Ishema: I think it stems from a lack of education about the importance of art. Historically, art was integral to our culture—from storytelling to rituals. Over time, colonial influences and economic priorities shifted focus away from traditional art forms. Today, people view art more as decoration than a tool for cultural expression or societal change. Q4: How do you think we can change this narrative and make art more appreciated in Nigeria? Ishema: Education AND Hands-On are key - both in schools and through public campaigns. We need to reintroduce art as an essential aspect of our identity. Additionally, platforms that promote local artists and showcase their work globally can help shift perspectives. Q5: Do you think African art can change the negative narratives about the continent? If so, how? Ishema: Absolutely. Art has the power to tell our stories authentically. By showcasing our struggles, victories, and aspirations, we can counter stereotypes and present a more nuanced image of Africa to the world. Art is a universal language, and through it, we can inspire global connections and change perceptions. Q6: What’s your dream for Nigerian art and your personal art career? Ishema: My dream is for Nigerian art to be globally recognized for its depth and diversity. Personally, I want to create works that resonate with people across cultures while preserving the essence of African heritage. Q7: What role do you think technology plays in advancing art in Nigeria? Ishema: Technology is a game-changer. From digital art tools to online platforms that connect artists with buyers, it’s making art more accessible and breaking down geographical barriers. Social media, in particular, has been instrumental in giving visibility to artists like me. Q8: Which Nigerian or African artists inspire you the most? Ishema: I’m inspired by pioneers like Bruce Onobrakpeya and contemporary artists like Njideka Akunyili Crosby. Their works reflect a blend of tradition and innovation, which is something I aspire to in my art. Q9: What advice would you give to young Nigerians aspiring to pursue art? Ishema: Stay true to your vision and don’t be discouraged by societal pressures. Seek out mentors, network with other creatives, and leverage digital platforms to showcase your work. Q10: What’s one thing you wish everyone understood about art? Ishema: Art is not just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of society, culture, and history. Supporting art means investing in the soul of a people. Promoting Nigerian and African Art To truly elevate Nigerian and African art, we need to: - Support Local Artists: Attend exhibitions, buy art pieces, and commission custom works. - Integrate Art into Education: Teach art history and appreciation from primary school levels. - Leverage Technology: Create online galleries and platforms where Nigerian artists can reach global audiences. - Government and Corporate Support: Policies and sponsorships can provide the necessary infrastructure and funding for the arts to thrive. Conclusion - Nigeria is Our Art Ishema Danjuma represents the boundless potential of Nigerian art. Her journey is a reminder of the talent that exists in our country, waiting to be nurtured and celebrated. Let’s support artists like Ishema and work together to redefine the narrative around Nigerian and African art. The world is watching, and our stories deserve to be told. FAQs Around Arts in Nigeria Who are some famous Nigerian artists? Artists like Ben Enwonwu, Bruce Onobrakpeya, and Njideka Akunyili Crosby have made significant contributions to Nigerian art. How can I support Nigerian art? You can support them by buying local artworks, attending exhibitions, and promoting artists on social media. What makes African art unique? African art is deeply rooted in culture, history, and storytelling, often featuring bold colors, patterns, and symbolism. How can Nigerian art gain global recognition? Through education, digital platforms, international collaborations, and consistent quality production. What is the future of art in Nigeria? With the rise of technology and a growing appreciation for culture, the future is bright for Nigerian art. Increased investment and awareness will further solidify its place on the global stage. Thank you for your time, Ishema. What are your thoughts on Arts in Taraba, Nigeria? Best, Simon Taki Zaku Founder, IbiFoundry.com.ng Mail: simonzakucom@gmail.com

Have you ever wondered how some towns are not only steeped in culture but also brimming with untapped opportunities? Wukari is one such place. Nestled in Taraba State, Nigeria, Wukari holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, traveling to Wukari during school holidays created some of my fondest childhood memories. The journey, the scenery, and the vibrant atmosphere made every visit unforgettable. But Wukari is more than a nostalgic destination for me - it’s a land of immense potential. Let’s dive into what makes Wukari unique and why it deserves more attention. Table of Contents (click to navigate): Overview of Wukari; Our London The History of Wukari (the Kwararafa Kingdom) The People of Wukari Tribes in Wukari Local Government, Taraba State, Nigeria Climate and Weather Patterns in Wukari Educational Landscape Restaurants in Wukari: Hotels in Wukari Federal University Wukari (FUW) Kwararafa University Investment Opportunities in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria Overview of Wukari; Our London Wukari is a Local Government Area in Taraba State, Nigeria, covering an area of 4,308 square kilometers. Its headquarters, located in the town of Wukari, lies along the A4 highway, making it a critical link for commerce and transportation. With a population of 241,546 as of the 2006 census, the town is rich in diversity and cultural heritage. Key Highlights of Wukari: - Coordinates: 7°51′N 9°47′E - Postal Code Prefix: 670 - ISO 3166 Code: NG.TA.WU The History of Wukari Town and Its People The History of Wukari (the Kwararafa Kingdom) Wukari, a town steeped in history, has been a significant cultural and political center for centuries. Its roots trace back to the Kwararafa Kingdom, a powerful West African empire that flourished between the 14th and 19th centuries. The Jukun people, the dominant ethnic group in the region, established Wukari as one of their major settlements. The town's strategic location on the Benue River made it a vital trade hub, connecting it to various parts of West Africa. Caravans carrying goods like salt, ivory, and slaves traversed the region, contributing to Wukari's economic prosperity. The Jukun people, known for their skilled artisans and ironworkers, also played a significant role in the regional trade network. In the 19th century, Wukari came under the influence of the Sokoto Caliphate, a powerful Islamic state that emerged in the 18th century. However, the Jukun people resisted full subjugation and maintained a degree of autonomy. With the advent of British colonial rule in Nigeria in the late 19th century, Wukari became part of the Northern Protectorate. The colonial period brought significant changes to the region, including the introduction of Western education and infrastructure. Wukari, as a major town, benefited from these developments, although its traditional social and political structures were also impacted. After Nigeria's independence in 1960, Wukari became part of the newly created Benue-Plateau State. In 1976, it was included in the newly formed Gongola State. Finally, in 1991, Wukari became part of Taraba State. Despite facing challenges such as ethnic and religious tensions, Wukari remains a culturally vibrant and historically significant town. Its rich heritage, diverse population, and strategic location continue to shape its identity and influence the region. The People of Wukari The town is the seat of the Wukari Federation a traditional state that reflects the historical significance of the Jukun people Local languages include Jukun dialects such as Wapan Jibu and Nyifon, as well as Ichen and Tiv. The diversity in culture and language is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of its residents. Wukari’s location along the Benue and Donga Rivers not only enhances its natural beauty but also provides vital resources for fishing, agriculture, and trade. These rivers also form boundaries with neighboring Nasarawa State, underscoring Wukari’s strategic importance. Tribes in Wukari Local Government, Taraba State, Nigeria Wukari is home to a diverse population of tribes that enrich its cultural landscape: Jukun : The dominant ethnic group, known for their vibrant festivals and historical significance. Tiv : A significant community contributing to agriculture and trade. Ichen : Smaller but influential in local traditions and craftsmanship. Climate and Weather Patterns in Wukari Wukari’s climate can be classified as “Aw” under the Köppen climate classification, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The region is hot year-round, with temperatures ranging from 62°F to 93°F, rarely falling below 55°F or exceeding 98°F. Key Climate Insights: - Hottest Period : February to April, with daily highs above 91°F. March is the hottest month. - Cool Season : June to October, with highs below 84°F. December is the coldest month, averaging 63°F at night. - Clear Season : November to March, with December being the clearest month (48% clear skies). - Cloudiest Period : March to November, with May being the cloudiest month (83% cloud cover). Educational Landscape Wukari is not only rich in history but also in education. It hosts prominent institutions such as: - Kwararafa University : A private university offering diverse academic programs. - Federal University Wukari: A federal institution contributing significantly to human capital development in the region. These institutions make Wukari a hub for learning and innovation, attracting students and researchers from across Nigeria. Here’s the updated article structure, incorporating sections on restaurants, hotels, tribes, educational institutions, and an investor invitation for Wukari Local Government: Restaurants in Wukari: Wukari boasts a growing culinary scene with several local and modern eateries that reflect the vibrant culture of the area. Popular spots include: 1. Croc City Café – Known for its delicious jollof rice, grilled fish, and other Nigerian staples. 2. Wukari Treats Restaurant – A favorite for both locals and visitors, serving everything from pounded yam to suya. 3. Riverside Eatery – Situated near the Benue River, offering fresh fish delicacies and scenic views. Dining in Wukari is not just about the food but the cultural experience of sharing meals rooted in Jukun traditions. "You go chop fish tire" Hotels in Wukari For visitors and investors exploring Wukari, there are several comfortable accommodations: 1. Wukari Royal Hotel – A top choice with modern amenities and proximity to the town center. 2. Benue Breeze Resort – Located by the river, offering a tranquil stay for tourists. 3. Croc Town Lodge – Ideal for budget travelers seeking clean and simple lodgings. This cultural diversity makes Wukari a hub of rich heritage and intertribal harmony. Federal University Wukari (FUW) Courses Offered Federal University Wukari provides a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including: Agriculture Engineering Medicine and Surgery Business Administration Computer Science Sociology Post-UTME Information: Applicants seeking admission must participate in the post-UTME screening, which evaluates academic readiness. Updates on cut-off marks and registration dates are published annually on the university’s website. Kwararafa University Courses Offered: Kwararafa University, a private institution in Wukari, offers courses such as: Political Science Mass Communication Accounting Criminology and Security Studies Biochemistry Post-UTME Information: Admission requirements include a minimum score in UTME, completion of online forms, and attendance at the university’s screening exercise. Invitation to Investors - "Wukari is Nigeria's Next London" - Cimon Wukari holds immense potential for economic transformation. With the Wukari Bridge planned to improve connectivity and facilitate trade, the area is set to become a gateway between Taraba State, Abuja, and Plateau State. Investment Opportunities in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria 1. Agriculture and Agro-Processing: Wukari’s fertile lands are ideal for cultivating crops like yam, cassava, and rice. The Benue and Donga Rivers provide irrigation potential, making the area a prime location for large-scale farming and agro-processing industries. 2. Fishing Industry: With rivers flowing through the region, fishing is already a major activity. However, investments in modern fish farming techniques, processing facilities, and export logistics can significantly boost the local economy. 3. Infrastructure Development: The town’s strategic location along the A4 highway calls for improved roads, housing, and markets. Investments in transportation and urban planning can make Wukari a major commercial hub. 4. Tourism and Cultural Events: The rich cultural heritage of the Jukun people, combined with natural attractions like the Benue and Donga Rivers, makes Wukari a potential tourist destination. Events celebrating local traditions and the establishment of resorts and recreational facilities could attract both local and international tourists. 5. Renewable Energy: Given its year-round sunshine, Wukari is a prime candidate for solar energy projects. Investments in renewable energy can not only power the town but also support its growing industries. A Call to Action to Investors for Development in Wukari Wukari’s potential is undeniable, but realizing it requires collective effort. We call on the government, private investors, and development organizations to explore opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure, and education. By investing in Wukari, you are not just supporting a town - you are contributing to the growth of an entire region. Let’s transform Wukari into a beacon of progress, preserving its rich history while paving the way for a brighter future.

Welcome to Jalingo! This is Simon from Jalingo, Taraba state, Nigeria. Jalingo is not just the capital city of Taraba State; it’s the place where I was born and raised. Growing up here was a blend of joy, culture, and discovery. I have fond memories of running around the bustling streets of Magami, enjoying roasted corn by the roadside, and watching the hills in the distance as the sun set. Jalingo shaped my childhood and continues to be a vibrant center of Taraba’s rich culture and growth. In this blog, we’ll explore everything from the city’s history to its economy, popular spots, and why it’s a goldmine for investors. History of Jalingo, Taraba state, Nigeria. Jalingo’s history dates back to the early 19th century when it served as an administrative hub for colonial powers. Its name, Jalingo, translates to "The Confluence of Peace" in the local Fulfulde dialect, reflecting the unity of the diverse tribes in the region. The city officially became the capital of Taraba State in 1991 when the state was created from the defunct Gongola State. Over the years, Jalingo has transformed from a quiet administrative town to a bustling capital with growing infrastructure, modern amenities, and a blend of traditional and urban lifestyles. The Kings of Jalingo: Custodians of Tradition Jalingo’s traditional rulership is a cornerstone of its cultural heritage. The city is under the rulership of the Emir of Muri, a highly respected leader who oversees the Muri Emirate. The Emirate plays a significant role in maintaining peace and cultural preservation. The current Emir, Alhaji Abbas Tafida, continues to uphold the traditions of the Jalingo people while supporting modern governance efforts. Tribes in Jalingo, Taraba state Jalingo is a melting pot of cultures, home to a variety of tribes, including: - Jukun: The dominant group, known for their rich history and traditions. - Fulani: Renowned for their pastoral lifestyle and Fulfulde language. - Hausa: A significant presence, contributing to trade and commerce. - Tiv: Known for their farming and cultural dances. - Mumuye: Recognized for their unique art and cultural festivals. The diversity in Jalingo fosters unity and offers visitors a chance to experience different cultures in one location. Universities in Jalingo, Taraba state Jalingo is a hub for education in Taraba State, with institutions that attract students nationwide. These include: Taraba State University (TSU) Founded in 2008, TSU offers a wide range of courses, including: - Law - Medicine - Engineering - Computer Science - Agricultural Sciences College of Nursing and Midwifery, Jalingo This institution is well-regarded for its healthcare training programs and has produced many of the state’s top healthcare professionals. Federal University, Wukari (Nearby) Though not directly in Jalingo, many students commute from the capital to attend this prestigious institution. Secondary and Primary Schools in Jalingo Education is a priority in Jalingo, and the city boasts numerous schools: Popular Secondary Schools: - Ruby Secondary School - Government Day Secondary School, Jalingo - Noble Crest Academy - Winners Comprehensive - Jalingo International School - Excel Comprehensive High School Notable Primary Schools: - New Era Nursery & Primary School - Early Years Academy - Royal Seed International School - Magami Primary School - Hope Rising Academy Popular Areas in Jalingo Jalingo is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its unique charm: - Road Block: The heart of Jalingo town (the capital of Taraba state). - Magami: A bustling area with markets and schools. - Nukkai: Known for its serene environment and residential areas. - Mayo Dassa: Home to many government offices and businesses. - Sarkin Dawaki: A hub for local trade. - Sabon Gari: Popular for its vibrant nightlife and eateries. Hotels in Jalingo Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Jalingo has several accommodations: - Suntai Suites : A luxurious option for high-end visitors. - Barade Hotel : Known for its excellent services and amenities. - Jalingo Resort : Ideal for family vacations. - Royal Spring Hotel : A budget-friendly choice. Chilling Spots in Jalingo If you’re looking to unwind, Jalingo has plenty of options: - ATC Garden: Perfect for a quiet evening. - Magami Viewpoint: Offers a stunning view of the city. - Dandalin Sallah: A local favorite for social gatherings. - Wesley Brethren Amusement Park: Great for family outings. Churches and Religious Institutions Jalingo’s religious diversity is reflected in its numerous places of worship: - Catholic Cathedral of Jalingo: A historic site for the Catholic faithful. - ECWA Church, Nukkai: One of the oldest churches in the city. - Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG): Popular among Pentecostal Christians. - Central Mosque, Jalingo: A hub for the Muslim community. Economy of Jalingo The economy of Jalingo is driven by agriculture, trade, and services. The city is known for producing crops like maize, millet, and rice. The bustling Jalingo Main Market attracts traders from across the region, dealing in everything from textiles to electronics. The government’s investment in infrastructure has also spurred growth in real estate and small-scale industries. Climate of Jalingo Jalingo experiences a tropical savanna climate: - Dry Season: Runs from November to April, with temperatures peaking around March. - Rainy Season: From May to October, characterized by heavy rains and cooler temperatures. - Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 35°C (95°F). Call to Action: Invest in Jalingo, Taraba state, Nigeria. Jalingo is ripe with investment opportunities. From real estate to agriculture, the city’s growing infrastructure and proximity to other key regions make it a strategic location for businesses. With more investments in education, healthcare, and tourism, Jalingo can become the next big thing in Northern Nigeria. So, whether you’re a business owner, tourist, or potential resident, Jalingo welcomes you with open arms. Let’s work together to make this city shine even brighter! Final Thoughts on Jalingo City Writing this article brought back so many memories of my childhood in Jalingo. It’s not just a city; it’s home. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out on a truly unique experience. And if you’re from Jalingo like me, let’s celebrate our city and all it has to offer. See you in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. Best, Simon Taki Zaku Founder, IbiFoundry.com.ng

Ever passed through a place so captivating that you couldn’t help but admire it from the car window? That was me every time I journeyed to Concordia College in Adamawa State, passing through Zing Local Government Area. Although I never stopped, Zing’s serene beauty and charm always left a mark on me. The iconic Bizarre Hotel and the rolling landscapes? Unforgettable! I’m Simon Zaku, born and raised in Taraba State, and I’m here to shine a spotlight on Zing. This town isn’t just a stopover - it’s a place rich in history, culture, and untapped potential. Let me take you on a tour of one of Taraba’s most fascinating LGAs. Where Lions Once Roamed: The History of Zing Zing, fondly known as Zingang in the past, derives its name from the lion (zingang in the Mumuye language), which once roamed its lands. The Mumuye people, the area’s predominant tribe, conquered the lions and claimed this land as their own. To this day, the lion remains a proud symbol of Zing, with a statue at the Kpanti's Palace to commemorate its legacy. Historically, Zing has served as a cultural and administrative hub for the Mumuye people, who comprise 12 clans with deeply rooted traditions. Its headquarters are in Zing town, a place that has grown into a vibrant center of culture and governance. Quick Facts About Zing Local Government, Taraba State, Nigeria Coordinates: 9°N, 11.7°E Area: 1,030 square kilometers Population: 127,363 (as of the 2006 census) Postal Code: 661 Local Government Chairman: Hon. Luka Zanya Geography and Climate: A Land of Contrasts Zing’s geography is a mix of forest reserves, rolling hills, and open plains. The climate features distinct rainy and dry seasons. Here’s a quick breakdown: Hot Season: February to April, with highs averaging 95°F (35°C). Cool Season: June to October, with temperatures dropping below 83°F (28°C). Coldest Month: December, averaging 86°F (30°C) during the day and 59°F (15°C) at night. Zing enjoys 151 rainy days annually, making it fertile ground for agriculture and forestry. The Mumuye People: Guardians of Culture The Mumuye, Zing’s dominant tribe, are known for their vibrant traditions, colorful festivals, and strong sense of community. They have preserved their ancient practices through generations, and their contributions to Zing’s culture are invaluable. Education: A Strong Foundation in Zing, Taraba State Zing is not just a cultural hub; it’s also home to key educational institutions: 1. Federal College of Education, Zing: This prestigious institution trains educators who serve communities across Nigeria. 2. Numerous primary and secondary schools that provide a solid educational foundation for the younger generation. These schools ensure that Zing’s children have access to quality education without needing to travel far. Economy: From Agriculture to Tourism Agriculture is the backbone of Zing’s economy. The area’s fertile soil supports crops like yam, maize, cassava, and groundnuts. The Fulani population adds to the economy with cattle rearing, a key livelihood in the region. Tourism is an untapped goldmine in Zing. Landmarks like the Bizarre Hotel and the lion statue at the Kpanti’s Palace have the potential to attract visitors. With the right investment, Zing could become a tourist hotspot. Places of Interest (where to flex Haha!) 1. Bizarre Hotel: A landmark for travelers passing through Zing. 2. Kpanti’s Palace: Featuring the lion statue, it’s a symbol of Zing’s rich history. 3. Forest Reserves: Perfect for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts. Religious Harmony within the Mumuye People Christianity and Islam are the two main religions in Zing. Churches and mosques are scattered across the LGA, serving as centers of worship and social cohesion. The peaceful coexistence of these religions is a testament to Zing’s unity and inclusivity. Why Zing Local Government, Taraba State, Deserves Attention Zing is more than just a dot on the map; it’s a land of potential. With its fertile lands, rich culture, and educational institutions, it’s primed for growth. Whether it’s agriculture, tourism, or education, Zing is a goldmine waiting to be tapped. So next time you pass through Zing, don’t just admire it from your car window - stop, explore, and experience the hidden gem of Taraba State. Have a blessed day, and hope to see you in Zing someday. Book a Zing tour with IbiFoundry. I'm Simon Taki Zaku Founder, Ibifoundry.com.ng

Which social media is best for Nigerian entrepreneurs? What social media platforms are best for your business here In Nigeria? Follow Me on X (Twitter) Follow Me on Pinterest Follow me on LinkedIn. I'm Simon Zaku and this post contains the necessary steps you can follow to ensure you select only the best social media platforms for your business.  Over the years, I've tried dozens of social media networks, communities, and forums for my clients and my brand. A lot of businesses may jump to any social media platform without a plan.   I’ve tried dozens of social media networks for businesses over the years and I will share my unique experience here. How to Choose the Right Social Media Channel for Your Business - Step-by-Step How do you choose a social media platform to market on? What are 3 major factors that need to be considered when selecting the social media networks for your business? App statistics and usage. Content type. How many social media accounts should your business have? What is the first step for selecting the right social media platforms for business? The first step is to know and understand the demographics of each social network on your radar. Social media is a powerful marketing channel today. With Facebook’s 3 billion users, X's (formerly Twitter's) 500 million, LinkedIn’s 900 million, and Instagram and TikTok's 1 billion active users, social media is a goldmine for business and marketing.  According to research, users spent an average of two hours and 151 minutes per day on social media platforms (in 2022) which rose from 147 minutes in 2021. That’s powerful, especially for businesses. Let’s look at some of the top social media networks according to user demographics, usage, age, and other useful statistics. And at the end of this post, I researched and included the 12 best social media channels for business today. 1: Understand Social Media Usage Statistics to Inform your Approach Let’s look at the usage statistics from some of the top social media platforms for businesses; X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok. Facebook Usage: Facebook Demographics 2023: 44% of the population uses Facebook daily in the United Kingdom. The daily average user spends 23 minutes on Facebook. The age range is 25 to 34 is the most active on Facebook in the UK. The number of users aged 65+ has increased from 2019 to 2020 went up by 9%. 52% of Facebook users in the UK are women and 48% are men. Largest age group by usage: 25-34 (26.3%). Gender: 56% male, 44% female. Time spent per day on the platform: 38 minutes. Facebook Marketing Statistics for Businesses: Over 200 million small businesses are on Facebook 75% of high-income earners are on Facebook The average Facebook Page posts 1.68 times daily More than 1 billion users message a business on Facebook weekly Instagram Usage: Instagram has 1 billion monthly active users and 500+ million daily. Largest age group by usage: 25-34 (33.1%).  Gender: 51.4% females and 48.6% males While 36% of men and 44% of women use Instagram in the United States Average time spent: 29 minutes per day on the app Instagram Marketing Statistics for Businesses: 35% of users surveyed will purchase Instagram Users aged 16 to 24 prefer Instagram to any other social media platforms India has more Instagram users than any other country Instagram business accounts grow their followers by 0.98% each month on average Instagram business accounts post 1.71 feed posts daily X (formerly Twitter) Usage: Twitter has 187 million daily active users Largest age group by usage: 30-49 (44%) Gender: 62.9% of Twitter users are male while around 37% are female Average time spent per session: 3.53 minutes Twitter's Marketing Statistics for Businesses: According to X, a 10% increase in Twitter Spaces discussion rooms has resulted in a 3% increase in overall sales. 40% of users purchase after coming across it on Twitter. The United States amounts to 25.47% of Twitter’s traffic 79% of marketers use Twitter Spaces Using 1-2 hashtags can attract 21% more engagement on your tweets LinkedIn Usage: LinkedIn has 738 million users as of 2021 Largest age group by usage: 46-55 Gender: 49% female, 51% male 63% of LinkedIn users access the platform monthly, and 22% weekly 70% of LinkedIn users live outside of the U.S LinkedIn Marketing Statistics for Businesses: LinkedIn Ads attract a 33% increase in purchase intent for brands 89% of marketers use the platform to generate leads 62% of B2B marketers said LinkedIn generates leads for them Videos get 5 times more engagement on LinkedIn Live videos on LinkedIn get 24 times more engagements Pinterest Usage: Pinterest has a total of 450 million monthly active users.  Largest age group by usage: 18 to 44 Gender: 76.2% are female and 17.2% are male The platform has 23 million Gen Z users Time spent daily: 14.2 minutes 46% of adult women in the United States use Pinterest Pinterest Marketing Statistics for Businesses: 50% of users in the United States shop on Pinterest Businesses can reach 8 million users through Pinterest Ads 45% of users in the U.S. have an income of over $100k annually 85% of users have purchased on Pinterest Pin Ads have a 32% higher ROAS (return on ad spend) than other social networks YouTube Usage: YouTube has 2.70 billion active users 80 million users use YouTube's premium 52% of internet users use the platform at least once every month India accounts for 467 million YouTube users The United States follows with over 240 million users YouTube is banned in China, Eritrea, Iran, North Korea, Turkmenistan, and South Sudan YouTube Marketing Statistics for Businesses: YouTube Ad revenue is $14 billion in 2023 YouTube Shorts gets over 50 billion views daily Mr. Beast earned $54 million on YouTube in 2022. The platform is the second most popular in Influencer Marketing Need to target a female audience? Try Pinterest; over 76% are females! Need the male audience? Think LinkedIn; 51% are males. Need to target marketers or the B2B space? Try Twitter and LinkedIn. Gen Z audience? TikTok and Pinterest would be great. You should carefully examine the usage, demographics, and business tools each platform offers. And how it can help your business grow. 2: Examining Platform's Content-Type Moving to the next step, what type of content do you want to publish? What type of content works in your industry? What content type does my target audience resonate with the most? Different Social Media Content According to Top Social Media Networks Here are the content types most businesses publish on major social networks: Stories Polls Shorts Reels IGTV Articles  Infographics Podcasts Quotes Live streams Text images Short & Long Videos Tutorials Challenge or Giveaways Memes Behind the scenes (BTS) User-generated content Recipes Select 5 content types your business should be publishing; or rather, your target customers consume daily.  Here's how to figure out the best social media content type for your business... Simply stalk your competition to see what they are doing.  Find and list your top 10 competitors. These could include huge brands, personal brands, or startup businesses. The next thing to do is to check and see what they’re doing on various social networks. What social media networks are they publishing on? What networks generate the most engagements for them? Are they on TikTok? LinkedIn? Or in Facebook Groups? Locate their social media pages and see what they’re publishing. You can then see what works in your industry.  Are your competitors posting videos, articles, infographics, IG content, or snap stories? These could also be live content, LinkedIn posts, or Twitter content.  Notice which are frequently posted, and reposted and which attract engagements.  This will also help you know which social media platforms to use. Get the idea? At this point, you have a list of your competitors and also have a list of the types of social media content that work for them. What's next? One question I often see in online forums is; How many social media platforms should my business be on? How Many Social Media Networks Should Your Business Start With? (2, 5 or 10?) How many social media platforms should my business join?  Should you create 1, 2, or 5 social media accounts for your business? The last social media report by SocialMediaExaminer reveals that marketers spend an average of 6 hours weekly on X alone.  Now think about having 3 or 5 social media networks! You’d have to go on each platform daily to keep it up and get the results that you want but that’s wrong! You may be considering automation but you can not automate every aspect of social media. “I can just automate my posts on these platforms and won’t have to spend any much time on these networks” CAN YOU AUTOMATE SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENTS? Yes, some A-I tools promise this but I haven’t seen one that does engagements like a human. Imagine sending the same replies to 10 different comments on your Instagram. People might think your account is a bot! I’ve seen brands go out of business this way. Having to run multiple social media accounts isn’t a great idea especially when starting. Rather, select 2-3 social media accounts and harness. Ideally, 2 to 4 accounts on social networks are perfect for a start depending on the type and size of your business. Finally, which social media platforms are best for marketing business? 12 Best Social Media Platforms for Marketing & Businesses Facebook - 3 billion Monthly Active Users (MAU) Instagram - 2 billion MAU X (formerly Twitter) - 500 MAU WhatsApp - 2 billion MAU SnapChat - 500 million MAU Reddit - 400 million MAU TikTok - 1 billion MAU YouTube - 2.5 billion MAU Pinterest - 400 billion MAU LinkedIn - 400 million MAU Quora - 300 million MAU Threads (Instagram's Twitter Alternative) - 23 million MAU Download this list as a PDF file by clicking here. Have any questions for me? Best, Simon Taki Zaku Owner: https://simonzaku.com

Have you ever heard about Ibi Local Government in Taraba State? For me, Ibi holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its rich history but because of the personal memories I associate with it. Growing up in Jalingo, the state capital, my family ensured that every holiday, we made the journey back to our roots in Ibi. If you’ve ever wondered where the name IBI Foundry  came from, you’re about to find out! Ibi Local Government Area (LGA) in Taraba State, Nigeria, is not just a geographical location but a fascinating blend of history, culture, and opportunities. (make I gist una better my IbiFounders!!!) The journey itself was an adventure: traveling from Jalingo (the state capital) through Wukari, then hours through the bush before reaching the Ibi riverbank. The most thrilling part was crossing the river - sometimes on rather shaky boats—to finally reach the village. Though the route seemed intimidating, especially for a young child, it quickly became a beloved part of the experience. We all Loved the experience! These are some of the best moments of my life! These trips weren’t just journeys through geography; they were journeys into the heart of who we are, reconnecting with family, culture, and tradition. This article dives into everything you need to know about Ibi Local Government. From its history to its economy, geography, and governance, let’s explore this fascinating area together. Where is Ibi Local Government? Ibi Local Government Area lies in the heart of Taraba State, on the southern bank of the Benue River. This central location makes it a key player in Nigeria’s cultural and economic landscape. The area is bordered by parts of Nasarawa and Plateau states and includes several towns and villages, such as: Kogwase Gindin-Waya Moti Tepga Sarkin Kudu Dooshima Dampara Mavo The headquarters of the LGA is in Ibi Town, a place rich in history and tradition. What Tribe is Ibi Local Government? Ibi is home to diverse ethnic groups, primarily the Jukun, Hausa, and Fulani people. This cultural melting pot thrives on harmony, with Hausa serving as the lingua franca. Predominantly, Islam is the practiced religion, but the area also celebrates various traditional and cultural festivals, such as the vibrant Nwonyo Fishing Festival , which brings people together in celebration of their rich heritage. A Glimpse into Ibi’s History Ibi’s history is deeply intertwined with trade, governance, and culture. Historically, Ibi's location was significant for trade. It was where the traditional land trade routes of Eastern Igboland intersected with the river trade routes of the Benue River. By 1899, the Niger Company established a trading station here, and in 1901, telegraph services to Lokoja were introduced. In 1900, the British took administrative control and made Ibi the headquarters of Western Muri. Cotton farming and steam-powered cotton gins became pivotal to the area’s economy in the early 20th century. Located at the crossroads of traditional land trade routes and the Benue River, Ibi has been a hub of activity for centuries. Here are some historical highlights: Colonial Trading Post:  In 1899, the Niger Company established a trading station in Ibi. By 1901, telegraph services linked Ibi to Lokoja, enhancing communication and trade. British Control:  The British made Ibi the administrative headquarters of western Muri in 1900, signifying its importance in governance. Economic Activities:  Cotton was a significant crop in the region, and steam-powered cotton gins emerged in the 1920s. The Nwonyo Fishing Festival, one of the most famous cultural events in Taraba, also traces its roots to Ibi. This festival attracts people from all over Nigeria and beyond, celebrating the area's rich fishing culture. Ibi’s strategic location and role as a trade hub shaped its development and contributed to its rich cultural tapestry. Ibi Bridge: A Landmark of Connection One of the most notable infrastructures in Ibi is the Ibi Bridge. This vital connection spans the Benue River, linking communities and facilitating trade and travel. It’s a testament to the town’s importance as a transportation and economic center in Taraba State. Geography and Climate Ibi LGA covers approximately 2,672 square kilometers, with the Benue River and tributaries like the Shemankar, Donga, and Taraba Rivers weaving through its terrain. The climate here is warm, with an average temperature of about 30°C. Rainfall averages around 1,600 mm annually, supporting agriculture and fishing. Economy of Ibi: Agriculture, Trade, and More Agriculture is the backbone of Ibi’s economy. Key activities include: Farming:  Crops like cotton thrive here, contributing to local and regional economies. Fishing:  The rivers are abundant with seafood, making fishing a vital occupation. Trade:  The bustling Ibi Fish Market attracts traders and buyers from far and wide, making it an economic hotspot. Craftsmanship:  Locals are skilled in making fishing nets, canoes, and other essential tools. Cattle Rearing:  Livestock farming also plays a significant role in the community’s livelihood. Who Governs Ibi Local Government? Ibi LGA is administered by a Local Government Chairman, currently Iliya Muhammad Ajibu . The chairman leads the council to oversee development, governance, and community welfare. Ibi Bridge (under construction) A prominent landmark in Ibi is the Ibi Bridge, which symbolizes connectivity and progress in the region. While the bridge plays a crucial role in transportation and trade, it also serves as a reminder of the community's resilience and unity. The Significance of Ibi to IBIFoundry The name IBI Foundry  is deeply personal and symbolic. It reflects the area’s rich history, resilience, and untapped potential. Just like Ibi town has been a hub for trade and culture, IBI Foundry  aims to become a hub for creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation in Nigeria and Africa. Investment Opportunities in Ibi: Building the Future Ibi is a goldmine of untapped opportunities, with the potential to become a thriving economic hub if given the attention and investments it deserves. One of the most promising developments is the Ibi Bridge , which, upon completion, will be among the longest in Nigeria. This bridge isn't just an infrastructure project - it’s a game-changer. Connecting Ibi to key regions like Abuja and Plateau State has the potential to facilitate seamless trade, boost tourism, and attract investors. Imagine Ibi as a vibrant crossroads of commerce, much like London, a place where industries flourish and opportunities abound. Fishing: A Hidden Economic Powerhouse Fishing is already a major activity in Ibi, thanks to its strategic location along the Benue River and its tributaries. The abundance of aquatic life makes it an ideal place for investments in fish farming, processing plants, and export-oriented businesses. With the right infrastructure, like cold storage facilities and modern fishing equipment, Ibi could become a leading supplier of seafood across Nigeria and beyond. Tourism: A Sleeping Giant: The natural beauty of Ibi and its cultural heritage offer immense tourism potential. Events like the Nwonyo Fishing Festival already draw visitors, but with investments in hospitality, tour guides, and marketing, Ibi could become a must-visit destination. The scenic Benue River and the upcoming Ibi Bridge could serve as iconic attractions. Agriculture and Trade: Ibi’s fertile land supports farming activities, with crops like cotton, yams, and rice thriving. Investments in modern agricultural techniques and agro-processing facilities could transform the local economy, creating jobs and boosting exports. Additionally, Ibi’s markets, especially the bustling fish market, could benefit from better infrastructure, drawing traders across the country. A Call to Action for Investors and the Nigerian Government With its proximity to major cities and abundant resources, Ibi is poised for greatness. However, this vision requires collective effort. The Ibi Bridge symbolizes progress, but more needs to be done. Local and international investors are invited to explore the endless possibilities in Ibi. The government must prioritize infrastructure, education, and policies that attract and protect investments. If harnessed correctly, Ibi could rise from a modest local government area to a beacon of development—a London in its own right. Let’s work together to make this dream a reality. What Can We Learn from Ibi? Ibi Local Government is more than just a location on the map; it’s a treasure trove of history, culture, and potential. Whether it’s the vibrant festivals, the thriving markets, or the serene landscapes, Ibi has so much to offer. If you ever get a chance to visit, take it - it might just be the adventure of a lifetime. Ibi reminds us of the power of community and the importance of preserving history while embracing growth. Its rivers, markets, and festivals are more than just economic activities; they are lifelines connecting generations and cultures. FAQs About Ibi Local Government 1. What tribe is Ibi Local Government? Ibi is home to the Jukun, Hausa, and Fulani tribes. 2. What is the history of Ibi? Ibi has a rich history as a trade hub, administrative center, and cultural melting pot. It played significant roles during the colonial era and remains an economic powerhouse. 3. What is the significance of the Ibi Bridge? The Ibi Bridge spans the Benue River, enhancing trade, travel, and connectivity in Taraba State. 4. What festivals are celebrated in Ibi? The Nwonyo Fishing Festival  is a major cultural event in Ibi, celebrating tradition and community. 5. What languages are spoken in Ibi? Hausa is widely spoken, along with the local dialects of the Jukun and Fulani tribes. Let’s celebrate and support Ibi’s legacy, ensuring its stories inspire the next generation of Nigerians and Africans. What are your thoughts on this hidden gem? Share them below!

Hi, Simon Zaku here. And one of my domains ( simonzaku.com ) has over 600 backlinks at the time of writing this blog piece and about 200 of those are DO-FOLLOW backlinks. And I have never done any backlink outreach campaign for this website! Domain profile for simonzaku.com march 2024. Follow my blog to watch me grow this site to 10,000 organic clicks. At the time of writing, I have NEVER sent or done any email outreach for backlinks for my website, simonzaku.com . Not to cancel backlink outreach (actually effective), I'd rather use this hidden-in-plain-sight-backlink-secret. I do ONE SIMPLE thing and my backlinks and backlink profile grow automatically by attracting natural backlinks without having to send 100s of outreach emails for backlinks or paying spammy websites for backlinks. Recommended Blog: Writing Cold Outreach Emails That Convert: the 'VCR' Strategy This is your favorite SEO and content marketing guy, Simon Zaku and this week I want to talk about an important and popular topic, backlinks. Every website owner wants backlinks. Every startup, agency, every organization, every company wants more backlinks. But how do you get backlinks? How do the top guys get backlinks to their websites? This is a known approach yet many SEOs shy from it. I say this because lots of website owners pay huge sums for backlinks. Why I Don't Pay for Backlinks (my horrible story buying backlinks) Here is my Google penalty story. Sometime in 2020, I came across an ad on Facebook. This application promised website owners could buy cheap backlinks to any website. You can create different backlink campaigns for different pages with this backlink software. I bought the software and started campaigns. This sent a few (horrible) backlinks. None of the backlinks were from trusted sites. Most of these backlinks were from bots, AI, and spam websites. They were mostly hurtful black-hat SEO backlinks. After some time, Google hit my website and I lost my search traffic, I lost my organic traffic, and my traffic went low and for that reason, I had to shut down this very website. I relaunched this website sometime in July 2023. For this reason, my website's SPAM score was affected (still working to get it back low). UPDATE: After strategic work, my site's Spam Score is now 1%. I published a detailed guide to teach you how I did it (from 47% to a 1% SPAM SCORE). My updated website SEO Spam Score How about paid guest posts for backlinks? I still get emails from people offering paid backlinks at different rates from different websites in niches. Search engines like Google are strict on paying for backlinks from harmful sites. Google frowns at purchasing backlinks, especially when they're spammy. So what is this hidden-in-plain-sight backlink-attracting strategy? How to Get Backlinks for Free to Your Website without Sending Outreach Mails Blogging (or Vlog) Content! And YES, every brand should keep and run a blog. Think about it; rather than pay thousands of dollars for a backlink, this is a natural approach to attract backlinks. The easiest way to attract backlinks is by creating exceptional SEO content. I know you've probably heard this countless times, but for the umpteenth time, yes, create blogs or video content. Invest in content marketing. create content, create blog content, create a company blog, create an educational blog, create a startup blog. Create content for your company, brand, and business, so that search engines (with billions of Users) will crawl your website with fresh and useful content. Not just any content, exceptional content. Recommended Blog: The Perfect Blog Post: How to Write Blog Articles for Your Clients & Customers Tell your brand stories in blogs or vlogs. "Exceptional content" may not necessarily mean the best content but it does stand out from the crowd. It is unique and different from other content. When you publish good content consistently, people see it. If you want to attract quality backlinks without emailing people or paying for backlinks, you should be able to create content that deserves to be linked to. 10 Content Types that Attract Quality Backlinks FAST! There are specific content types known to perform well. For example; Reels Shorts Infographics Statistics Let's look at some. Research and studies are linked to a lot of times. What is one industry research you can do and then publish in the form of a blog? Infographics are backlink magnets too. Create something industry experts want to link to. People want to be affiliated with good stuff; good content. People naturally link to good content. These are natural backlinks from people who think they should link to your website. I've gotten thousands of emails from people linking to me without knowing them. So blogging is a free and effective backlink strategy. You should create content as a SaaS, agency, or NGO. This will help you attract natural backlinks without paying or sending outreach emails. Craft out a blogging strategy to publish content that attracts backlinks naturally. Here is a list of the top ten content types that attract backlinks: Infographics. Expert roundups. A List of Tools (Complete) Case studies YouTube research videos Cheat sheets Statistics and reports Controversial blogs How-to Guides Surveys Spend time creating content on your website that attracts backlinks without paying for spam websites or sending outreach emails for backlinks. What do you think about blogging as a backlink strategy? You can contact me anytime and I'll get back to you. Thank you and have a productive day. Simon Taki Zaku brand, Owner; simonzaku.com SEO Consultant and Specialist in Business Blogging Please share this to your Pinterest boards and let your followers know what you are reading :)

My Naija Pidgin Journey "I no fit lie for you aje, I too gbadu pidgin, and Oyibo sef come dey like am die" Hey there! My name is Simon Zaku, and I’m here to guide you on a journey through the fascinating world of Nigerian Pidgin, also fondly called “Broken” or “Naija.” I was born and raised in Jalingo, Taraba State, a melting pot of cultures. Over the years, my travels across Nigeria - from the North to the West - exposed me to a rich tapestry of languages and dialects, including Pidgin, English, and Hausa. From Ibi to Wukari, Dampar to Bauchi, and even down to Lagos and Osun States, I’ve encountered diverse flavors of Pidgin. "You get the jeck" Each region adds its spice to the language. And yes, having friends who went to military school added an exciting twist to my understanding of Pidgin slang like “Amof rubbish” (military lingo for “nonsense”). This guide isn’t just for Nigerians; it’s for actors, artists, and anyone who wants to master this vibrant language authentically. Let’s dive in. A Brief History of Nigerian Pidgin Nigerian Pidgin is more than just a dialect—it’s a culture. Born out of necessity during the Atlantic slave trade in the late 17th century, it served as a bridge between British colonists and African communities. Today, it thrives as a lingua franca, spoken by over 120 million Nigerians as a first or second language. While variations exist across West Africa (Benin, Ghana, Cameroon), Pidgin has evolved into a uniquely Nigerian identity. Google recognized its cultural significance with a Pidgin search interface in 2011, and in 2017, BBC News launched its Pidgin service to connect with global audiences. Popular Pidgin Slangs and Their Meanings Let’s explore some everyday Pidgin words and phrases you’ll love: Abeg – Please. Example: Abeg free me! (Please leave me alone!) Oga – Boss or mentor. Example: Na my oga wey send me come. (My boss sent me here.) Una – You all. Example: Una don chop? (Have you all eaten?) Wetin – What. Example: Wetin dey happen? (What’s happening?) Sabi – Know. Example: I sabi the guy. (I know the guy.) Pidgin Dialects Across Nigeria Pidgin isn’t a one-size-fits-all language. It transforms depending on where you are: Niger Delta (Warri, Sapele, Port Harcourt): Known for its rhythmic and vibrant tones. Example: How far now? (What’s up?) Lagos/Ajegunle: Influenced by Yoruba with slangs like Ṣebi (right?). Onitsha/Benin City: Borrowed words from Igbo and Bini languages. North (Kano, Kaduna): Limited Pidgin, but Hausa phrases often mix in. Each region brings its unique twist, making Pidgin a dynamic and evolving language. Why You Should Learn Pidgin Actors, artists, and even podcasters—this is for you. Remember the Lagos scene in Black Panther? It lacked authentic Pidgin flair. To truly represent Nigerian culture, you need the real deal. Learning Pidgin: 1. Connects You to 120+ Million Nigerians. 2. Adds Authenticity to Creative Projects. 3. Breaks Language Barriers Across Ethnic Groups. Join My $1 Naija Pidgin Club Want to speak like a true Naija person? I’ve got something special for you. For just $1, you can join my exclusive Pidgin Language Club. We’ll have daily video classes where I’ll teach you the slangs, tones, and secrets you won’t find anywhere else. Growing up in Jalingo, I thought Pidgin was just casual fun. But with time, I realized its depth and value, especially for outsiders trying to connect with Nigerians. Whether you’re an actor preparing for a role or a musician working on your next Afrobeat hit, I’ll help you nail the lingo. Conclusion - Drop Your Favorite Pidgin English Sentence in the Comment Pidgin isn’t just a language - it’s a vibe, a culture, and a unifying tool for millions of Nigerians. From “Abeg” to “Sabi,” learning it will unlock new experiences and connections. Join me, Simon Zaku, on this journey and let’s make you a pro in Nigerian Pidgin! Simon Taki Zaku Founder, IBIFoundry simonzakucom@gmail.com ibifoundry@gmail.com

My Journey from a Hostel Bunk to a Global Content Marketing Career: Did you know that 90% of Nigerian internet users consume online content daily? This staggering statistic underscores the immense potential of going into content marketing in Nigeria. From budding bloggers to seasoned social media influencers, content creators are reshaping the digital landscape. Let me tell you my story; During my university days, I spent countless hours writing and blogging from the confines of my hostel bunk. Armed with an old laptop and patchy internet access, I turned what seemed like a mere hobby into a career. I started countless websites, blogs, and businesses and all failed. But I didn't stop. Fast forward to today, I've worked with over 20 startups, grown my brand, and carved out a niche as a content marketing expert with over a decade of experience in blogging and SEO. Let me explain the idea of content creation, content creators, and earning from the content you create. What is Content? Content is simply any kind of information or media that can be consumed. This includes blog posts, videos, podcasts, social media posts, infographics, and more. What is Content Marketing? Content marketing is not just about creating content - it’s about delivering valuable and relevant information to a targeted audience to attract and retain them. Content marketing is the strategic creation and distribution of valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience - and, ultimately, to drive profitable customer action. In simpler terms, it's about creating great content that people love, so they'll keep coming back for more. Think of it as telling stories that inspire action, whether it's purchasing a product, signing up for a service, or engaging with a brand. The Rise of Content in Nigeria Nigeria has experienced a meteoric rise in content consumption and creation. With a burgeoning youth population and increasing internet penetration, the demand for engaging content has skyrocketed. Top Content Creators in Nigeria Nigeria boasts a vibrant community of talented content creators. Some of the top names include: - MrMacaroni: A comedian known for his satirical skits. - Broda Shaggi: Another popular comedian with a unique style. - Tunde Ednut: A social media influencer with a massive following. - Fisayo Fosudo: A tech and lifestyle vlogger. I have a complete guide on the top influencers on social media in Nigeria. You can read it here: Influencer Marketing in Nigeria: + Top 50 Influencers to Work Within Nigeria The Role of Content in the Nigerian Context Nigeria is experiencing a digital renaissance, with creators making waves across various platforms. From YouTube to TikTok, Nigerians are utilizing content to not only entertain but also educate, influence, and grow brands. Yet, content marketing in Nigeria is not exclusive to influencers or entertainers. Businesses, NGOs, and even individuals can leverage it to achieve their goals. It’s an industry ripe with opportunities for anyone willing to learn and put in the work. Why Content Marketing is Important for Nigerians Here are a few key reasons why content marketing holds immense potential for Nigerians: 1. Creativity Meets Opportunity: Nigerians are inherently creative, and platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are proving fertile grounds for growth. 2. Affordable Access to Tools: With mobile phones and affordable data plans, creating and sharing content is easier than ever. 3. Global Visibility: The internet breaks geographical barriers, allowing Nigerian content creators to reach audiences worldwide. Getting Started in Content Marketing Here’s a practical guide to help you kickstart your content marketing journey: 1. Identify Your Niche: Focus on a specific area you're passionate about or knowledgeable in. Your niche could be anything from fashion and technology to food or education. 2. Set Clear Goals: What do you aim to achieve with your content? Is it to build an audience, sell products, or establish authority in a field? 3. Learn the Basics: Study essential skills like SEO, copywriting, and analytics. There are plenty of free and paid resources available to get you started. 4. Create and Publish Content: Start small, create consistently, and share your work across various platforms to build a portfolio. 5. Engage Your Audience: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and engage in meaningful conversations to build a loyal community. FAQ on Content Creators, Content Marketing, and Content Creation. How Much Do Content Creators Charge in Nigeria? The fees for content creators in Nigeria vary widely depending on their experience, niche, and the specific project. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from N50,000 to N500,000 for a sponsored post or video. How Content Creators Make Money in Nigeria? Content creators in Nigeria make money through a variety of channels: Brand Partnerships: Collaborating with brands to promote their products or services. Social Media Ads: Running ads on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Merchandise: Selling branded merchandise like t-shirts and hats. Affiliate Marketing: Promoting products and earning a commission on sales. YouTube Ad Revenue: Monetizing YouTube videos through ads. Who is the Highest-Paid Content Creator in Nigeria? It's difficult to pinpoint the exact highest-paid content creator in Nigeria, as income can fluctuate. However, popular influencers like MrMacaroni, Broda Shaggi, and Tunde Ednut are undoubtedly among the top earners. How Much Does Facebook Pay Nigerian Content Creators? Facebook pays Nigerian content creators through its monetization programs, such as Facebook Ads and Facebook Stars. The exact amount a creator can earn depends on factors like the number of views, likes, and shares their content receives. How Do I Price Myself as a Content Creator? When pricing your services as a content creator, consider factors like your experience, the complexity of the project, and the value you bring to the table. You can charge hourly rates, project-based fees, or a combination of both. Who Pays a Content Creator? Content creators can be paid by various sources, including: Brands: Companies that hire content creators for sponsored posts, product reviews, or campaigns. Agencies: Advertising and marketing agencies that hire content creators for their clients. Platforms: Social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok pay creators through ad revenue and other monetization programs. Direct clients: Individuals or businesses who hire content creators for specific projects. What Platforms Pay Content Creators in Nigeria? Several platforms pay content creators in Nigeria, including:  YouTube  TikTok  Instagram  Facebook  Twitter  Medium  Patreon How Much Do Content Writers Charge Per Word in Nigeria? The rate for content writers in Nigeria can vary depending on their experience, the complexity of the project, and the specific niche. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from N10 to N100 per word. Which Content Creator Platform Pays the Most? The platform that pays the most depends on various factors, including the niche, the content format, and the creator's audience. However, YouTube and TikTok are generally considered to be among the highest-paying platforms. Does TikTok Pay Content Creators in Nigeria? Yes, TikTok pays content creators in Nigeria through its Creator Fund, which rewards creators based on their video views, likes, and shares. How Do Small Content Creators Make Money? Small content creators can make money through various strategies, including:   Affiliate marketing Brand partnerships Selling digital products Offering consulting services Crowdfunding Affiliate Marketing You Are Not Too Late to Create Content Are you ready to transform your passion for writing, storytelling, or creative work into a lucrative career? At IBIFoundry, we’re empowering Nigerians to harness the power of content marketing to tell their stories and create impactful brands. Let’s discuss your thoughts or challenges in the comments, or reach out directly for personalized advice. Best, Simon Taki Zaku Founder, IbiFoundry.com.ng

Did you know? Your favorite brands might just owe their success to your favorite influencer. Yes! That’s the magic of influencer marketing - it’s changing the way Nigerian businesses connect with their audience. Hi, I’m Simon Zaku, and today, I’ll take you on a journey through Nigeria’s influencer scene, dissecting how brands can tap into the power of our vibrant creators to push their marketing game to the next level. Grab a chilled Zobo, relax, and let’s dive in! Why Influencer Marketing Works Wonders in Naija You see, Nigerians love people they can relate to. Whether it’s Davido sharing his latest tracks or Mr. Macaroni cracking us up with “You’re doing well,” influencers have the trust of the people. That trust is gold for brands looking to grow. Think about it: who would you trust more to recommend a product? A boring ad or your fave skit maker giving it a thumbs up? Exactly. Influencer marketing has redefined how brands connect with their audience in Nigeria. From comedy skits to tech reviews, influencers in various niches have transformed online spaces into thriving hubs for brand promotion. This guide’ll explore 40 top Nigerian influencers across Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Plus, I'll share tips on choosing the right influencer for your brand and answer FAQs about influencer marketing in Nigeria. Meet the Titans: Top 50 Nigerian Influencers by Platform Instagram Influencers 1. @iamdavido - Music superstar with a global appeal. 2. @wizkidayo - Internationally acclaimed musician and fashion icon. 3. @officialmrmacaroni - Comedian and activist connecting with the youth. 4. @brodashaggi - Comedy and entertainment powerhouse. 5. @symplysimi - Singer and female audience magnet for beauty and lifestyle brands. 6. @kie_kie__ - Stylish content creator merging humor with fashion. 7. @taaooma - Comedy queen with relatable skits perfect for fast-moving consumer goods. 8. @houseofajebo - Animated skits that resonate with family audiences. 9. @brainjotter - Known for satirical and witty humor. 10. @ericokafor - Tech expert ideal for gadget and tech service promotions. X (formerly Twitter) Influencers 1. @daddymo1 - Political commentator and lifestyle enthusiast. 2. @DrOlufunmilayo - Public health advocate promoting wellness. 3. @SavvyRinu - Social activist and voice for Gen Z. 4. @FisayoFosudo - Expert tech and finance content creator. 5. @Omojuwa - Digital strategist reaching professionals. 6. @MarkAngelComedy - Viral comedy hits with wide appeal. 7. @mrfunny_ - Hilarious comedian engaging millions. 8. @TheLazyWrita - Pop culture and entertainment analyst. 9. @brymOlawale - Musician sharing deep personal insights. 10. @Roviel_ - Influencer connecting youth to fashion and lifestyle brands. TikTok Influencers 1. @nons_miraculous - Dancer with creative, viral routines. 2. @sketchcomedy - Hilarious duo perfect for brand storytelling. 3. @official_mercy - Actress and beauty influencer. 4. @AmarachiDance - Young, vibrant dancer for sports brands. 5. @Josh2Funny - Comedian blending music and humor. 6. @markangelcomedy - Family-oriented skits with universal humor. 7. @brainjotter - Skits delivering humor with a twist. 8. @mrfunny - Comedy genius entertaining millions. 9. @realmaraji - Pioneering female comedic content creator. 10. @kie_kie__ - Fun, stylish creator making waves across platforms. YouTube Influencers 1. Fisayo Fosudo - Known for clean and professional tech reviews. 2. Eric Okafor - Tech expert diving deep into gadgets and apps. 3. Taaooma - Comedy skits that captivate young and old. 4. Maraji - Creative storytelling with a humorous edge. 5. MarkAngel Comedy - Viral content that resonates globally. 6. Mr Macaroni - Engaging social commentary through comedy. 7. Brain Jotter - Witty sketches and storytelling. 8. Sisi Yemmie - Nigerian food and lifestyle vlogger. 9. Tayo Aina - Travel and lifestyle content capturing Africa's beauty. 10. Dimma Umeh - Beauty and lifestyle influencer. Facebook Influencers 1. Linda Ikeji - Trailblazing blogger and media mogul. 2. Toke Makinwa - Entrepreneur and media personality. 3. Mark Angel - Comedy skits with massive reach. 4. House of Ajebo - Animated content capturing family audiences. 5. Taaooma - Popular comedy series perfect for all ages. 6. Brain Jotter - Relatable humor with a twist. 7. Kie Kie - Stylish influencer merging entertainment with lifestyle. 8. Yomi Casual - Fashion-focused creator. 9. Tunde Ednut - Entertainment influencer with a loyal following. 10. Sisi Yemmie - Food, lifestyle, and family content expert. Choosing the Right Influencer To get the best results, consider: Relevance: Does their audience match your target market? Engagement: High likes, shares, and comments matter more than follower count. Authenticity: Influencers who genuinely love your brand are key. Budget: Align your marketing budget with their rates. FAQs on Top Content Creators in Nigeria 1. Who is the most followed content creator in Nigeria? As of now, Davido and Wizkid lead the pack with millions of followers. 2. Who are the most popular content creators? Top names include Mark Angel, Taaooma, Mr Funny, and Linda Ikeji across various platforms. 3. Who is the best TikTok influencer in Nigeria? Creators like Taaooma, Josh2Funny, and Nons Miraculous dominate TikTok with viral content. 4. How much do content creators charge in Nigeria? Rates vary based on follower count, platform, and engagement, ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦10 million per campaign. 5. Who is the most famous YouTuber in Nigeria? Mark Angel Comedy holds the crown for viral content, followed by Fisayo Fosudo for tech reviews. 6. Who is the highest-paid Instagram influencer in Nigeria? Davido and Wizkid command some of the highest fees on Instagram due to their global reach. 7. Who is the youngest blogger in Nigeria? Young bloggers like Success Adegor have emerged, inspiring a new generation. Take Your Nigerian Brand to New Heights Partner with experts who know the Nigerian digital space. From strategy to execution, we’ll connect you with the right influencers to drive results. Let’s build your brand’s success story together.

Hello everyone and welcome to the IbiFoundry blog. In this article I'm going to show you exactly what it takes to start, run and manage a blog that makes you $1,000, even as we approach 2025. Here's my story in Taraba State, Nigeria; For the past 10 years I've started countless blogs and I've been able to squeeze out a living from it from my hostel bunk here in NIgeria (Yes, I’m from a beautiful part of Nigeria. You see, most of these blogs I started have failed before even making a dollar, but through trial and error I was able to start a blog making me $1,000 a month and $2,500 one time. Unlike you, I've never had a guide or a walk through just like this article when I was starting out. I was forced to try things on my own. I blogged my way through trial and error. Blogging has evolved over the decade. A lot of strategies that used to work no longer work anymore. A lot of new content and SEO policies, strategies and newer and more advanced tools (like A.I systems and bots) have been created and are now being used to help bloggers run successful blogs. I decided to take the time to create this indispensable blogging guide that will help you go from starting a new blog that generates $0.00 and growing to $1,000 monthly even as a Nigerian. (These days, we should not just depend on the government) This is me sharing my personal story and experience on how I went from zero to making $1,000 and even at some point I was making $2,500 a month from my blog. Unlike the millions of blogging guides on how to start a successful blog, I'll be asking and answering some of the most disturbing questions beginner bloggers ask before getting into blogging. I'll be answering them from my own perspective. The burning questions I asked before starting my first blog are what I'm going to answer here. How I Started and Run a $1,000/Month Blog Starting with the first question; BLOGGING QUESTION #1: How did I get started blogging 10 years ago? Let me tell you a short story. It was on a beautiful Friday evening here in Taraba, Nigeria. I stepped out and decided to take a walk around the neighborhood. I was barely 13 years old and while walking I came across an old friend and someone I regard as a mentor, Job Benedict. He looked so excited and I couldn't wait to ask the reason behind his excitement. He replied; “I just cashed out $60.00 from Google Adsense!”. Now I can still recall the shocking feeling I felt realizing this is someone in Taraba state, Nigeria getting paid in USD just by using his computer. And guess what? At the point I never knew what a blog was so I replied; “What is a blog?” He said. “A blog is a platform where you could make money from Google Adsense”. “What is Google Adsense and how can I get started too?” He said; “A platform you connect with your blog to display adverts and make money”. “How do I get started?” He said go Google search it out. I said to myself, I definitely have to learn about this to make money on my own and at the time $60.00 was a huge amount of money converted to Nigeria Naira. That got me excited and I really wanted to go into blogging from that moment. Guess what happened next? The next day I immediately went back home and I created a pretty scrappy (and free) blog running on Blogger Blogspot. Now if you don't know what Blogger Blogspot is, it is a free blogging platform where you could start a blog for free hosted by Google. So the next day I came back to Benedict and said I now have a blog; what's next? How can I begin earning $60.00 just like you did? I was already geared up to start earning even though my blog was just a day old. If you think about it, the mindset was the first thing I had gotten right. Which was to start a blog AND make money. Most beginner bloggers I see today just go into blogging to write, send a few tweets, write anything and all of that or even steal content on the internet. But the first thing is you need to get the mindset right. The mindset is to start a blogging business, not to start a writing blog where you can just write what you want to write. I had the mindset that I wanted to create something that would turn to a side income, so I was focused on generating revenue. Now Fast forward to five to seven years, I had a blog running and earning $1000 monthly. And what got me even more fulfilled was that Benedict (my old time friend) turned out to be a student in one of my blogging coaching programs. I felt fulfilled because I was determined and I never gave up. Even though it took a long, long time for me to start earning, I never stopped. If you look again, it took me six to seven years before I earned my first dollar as a Blogger. I made so many mistakes and I failed countless times, but that never stopped me. I was determined to build a side income, just like my friend Ben. Now don't get discouraged seeing it took me this long to make a dime from my blog and this was because I never had a coach. I never had a guide, mentor or a comprehensive walkthrough just like this. So I basically did this all on my own which caused my blogs to fail several times. I simply didn't know what to do. I didn't know what products to create and sell on my blog. (I ended up selling e-books) - I’ll be publishing an entire blog article on how I was able to write and sell ebooks on this blog that generated good money in a few days so be sure to subscribe to my blog. Unlike the millions and billions of such results on how to start a successful blog, I'll be answering the top questions around blogging and then helping you with each and every step. And if you have any more questions that I haven't answered in this blog post, you can feel free to use the comments section and I will reply to every single one of your questions. Like I've mentioned, I'll be covering both the technical and mindset aspect of running a successful blog through some of the most disturbing blogging questions on the Internet. QUESTION 2: What type of blog did I start that failed and why? The second question here is; “What type of blog did I start that never made a dollar in six years?” When I started blogging I was not fortunate to have a tutor, mentor or a guide to help my journey. Throughout my blogging journey I depended on my (mediocre) knowledge as a beginner and it turned out to be a huge mistake that took me years because I knew nothing about blogging. Here’s the story of the first ever blog I started; Earlier on I started an entertainment blog which was funny because I basically stole other people's content and published on my blog. This is what bloggers call the Copy and Paste Blog. Now the first blog I started was zakxloaded.com (pretty funny name). What did I publish? At the time, there was a famous Nigerian Blogger Linda Ikeji (Lindaikejiblog dot com) who made billions of Naira from blogging. On zakxloaded.com, what I did was I basically went to Linda's entertainment/celebrity blog and copied every single thing she posted and reposted on my blog expecting to get as much traffic and revenue as she was making, which was the biggest mistake I made. And as a result, I never got any leads, traffic and I was barely getting 5 to 10 clicks from my shares on Twitter and Facebook. Even though I put in so much content, I was also never accepted to Google Adsense because I was simply doing ‘copy and paste’. Google Adsense says every one of your content must be unique for you to be accepted to the Google monetization program. This made me frustrated for years and I almost gave up blogging. My traffic never scaled above 10 clicks per month so I couldn't convert any traffic to sales or leads at all. I basically stole content from other websites and pasted on my blog which also negatively affected my SEO. During my first blogging year, I sent more than 50 Google Adsense applications from different emails and all were disapproved. So if you want to go through the Google Adsense monetization program, you must create your own unique content. SIDE NOTE: This very blog got approved just a day after applying for a Google Adsense account. This was because I created unique content and had only about 10 blog posts yet it was approved 24 hours after applying for my Google Adsense account. Now here's the thing; I didn't grow this blog to $1,000 monthly through Google Adsense. We'll be discussing this later in the post. But if you're looking to make some money from your new blog as a beginner, you can try the Adsense program and can try other much more lucrative blog monetization methods just like I did. “I am ready to start a blog but what are the technical aspects of creating a blog from scratch?” Now the next most disturbing question new bloggers ask is; “what are the technical aspects of starting a blog today?” You see, unlike when I started blogging, there were a ton of technical things to do before you could get your blog online. Today you can have your blog up and running in less than 5 minutes. Yes, I repeat, in less than 5 minutes your blog would be up and running. Now there are few things you just need to put in place. There are three basic technical aspects of starting a blog today. The 3 Technical Aspects of a New Blog: Domain Name (or blog name/url) Web Hosting Blog Host (WordPress, Wix, etc) 1) BLOG DOMAIN NAME: The first is a domain name, the second is your hosting and the third is the blogging platform or blogging host. What is a blog domain name? Your domain name is what your audience types in the browser search browser to land on your blog. For example, this very blog's domain name is SIMONZAKU.COM. This is what you, my target audience or clients type in a web browser to land on this very blog. Other examples of domain names include are blogginwizard.com, Wix.com, Ryrob.com, Neilpatel.com, Wordpress.com, Google.com and so many more. How do I choose a domain name for my new blog? When choosing a domain name for your blog, try to keep in mind that the easier your audience or customers can remember your domain name and easily type it in a browser, the better for your blog brand in general. I try to avoid things like hyphens (-), special characters, numbers or any long difficult names that aren't easy to remember. For me, I wanted to build a personal brand around my new blog which could easily be remembered with my name so I picked my first and last name which is Simon Zaku for my domain name. Hence simonzaku.com. I went for a dot com (.com) because it is way easier to remember and is the most popular domain suffix to use. We have numerous like .net, .org, .site, etc. With my first blog, I used zakxloaded.com and now simonzaku.com for this blog and simonwritesagency.com for my content and blogging agency. And freelancebeginnertraining.com for my freelance coaching services and products. Get the idea behind blog domain names now? So let's say, I want to start a blog around books. I could use something like Simonbookreviews.com or Dailybookreviews.com. Your domain name could be anything at all. Just focus on getting a domain name that can easily be remembered and can easily be typed and searched by your target audience or customers. 2) BLOG WEB HOSTING: Now the next thing is your blog’s web hosting which is as crucial as your domain name. In fact, I’ve lost some of my blogs due to poor hosting services. This caused me to switch to different web hosting companies to find the perfect one for my blogs. And don’t worry, I have a few I’d recommend so you don’t have to lose your blog along the way. What is blog web hosting? Your blog’s web hosting is the company or service which your blog will run on or be hosted on. It is called the hosting service provider which provides all the necessary technicalities and features for websites and blogs to run on the Internet. They are also responsible for backing up your website data. Here’s the catch; You can get your domain name from one hosting company (say nameservers.com) and get your hosting from a different hosting company (Hostinger.com or Hostgator.com). For example I could get a domain name from GoDaddy and then get my hosting from Hostgator and then map it. You could as well get your domain name and hosting on one platform (say Hostinger, or Hostgator, or Bluehost). For this blog, I use Wix.com for my blog hosting while my domain is hosted on Hostgator. There are other hosting sites like Namesaver.com, Bluehhost, etc) where you can get your domain names, blog hosting and all of that. All you have to do is map your blog’s domain name to your preferred host. Now the next thing is where exactly where your blog will be hosted? Where should I host my new blow? Like I said, your blog can be hosted on your hosting provider through Wix, WordPres, Hostgator, or Hostinger.com. But for this very blog, I use Wix but over the years I used WordPress which is more effective to use. I moved from WordPress to Wix months ago but don't get me wrong, I still have some of my sites hosted on WordPress because there's so many features on WordPress that weeks does not have. But for now this very blog is running on Wix.xom. WordPress is a tool that runs your blog. It is the largest blogging platform in the world with billions of websites and blogs running on it. Other competitors are Wix, Hostgator, Namesavers and all of that. Why is WordPress the best Blogging platform for blogs? Now why I love WordPress to be specific is that WordPress offers millions of blogging features which come in forms of WordPress plugins. What are WordPress plugins? WordPress plugins are additional services or add-ons that help bloggers or website owners run successful blogs effectively. For example, they are blogging plugins that help you create pop-up plugins. There are WordPress plugins that help you secure your WordPress sites and more. These plugins basically help you gain more control over your blogs or your websites. Some examples of WordPress plugins are Google Analytics, WordFence and all of that. Here's the thing about Wix.com… There are some alternatives to addons on Wix that are important and can be used in space of the WordPress plugins. QUESTION 3: How did I go from $0.00 to $1,000 monthly from my blog (simonzaku.com) Now the next and one of the most disturbing questions is how do you actually take your blog to $1000 per month? In short, here is the thing; I didn't grow a $1000 per month blog through Google Adsense or Ads. What I did was I grew a $1000 per month service based business. In other words, I grew a $1,000 per month freelance writing business through my blog. I want you reading this to start looking at your blog as a marketing channel or a marketing tool rather than a business on its own. This blog is a marketing channel which I use to promote my freelance service business. What I do is I write for businesses across the globe, especially startups in the B2B space. I create genuine and unique content on this very blog which attracts people (my target audience) who need my freelance writing and marketing services. Now I want you to ask yourself this; “What are you normally good at and you know you can write about?” That is what you are good at and you know you can write and blog about every single day or week. This strategy helped me grow a $1000 per month blogging business off freelancing with just a few blog posts. I didn't even need to create tons of blog posts. What I did was I researched, wrote and promoted a few blog posts targeted to my b2b freelance writing audience and I promoted them properly. And then I got them to contact me to write SEO articles or run content marketing tasks for them. This way, I was able to land several SEO and content clients paying me anywhere around $150.00 to $1000 a month to create blog content for them. What you need to do is you need to find a business, you need to find a service that you can offer. There are so many services and products you can offer and then create your blog around that service. Then your blog will serve as a promotional channel to that very business. Here are the things I did to create a successful blogging business: The first thing I did was I created exceptional content around my freelance writing business. Secondly, I planned out an effective sales funnel for my blog. And then thirdly, I incorporated email marketing and lead generation and then implented effective blog content marketing. Now you see having a sales funnel pretty much covers it all as to why I was able to convert my blog visitors into clients and customers as a Blogger. But the real deal is having an efficient sales funnel that syncs with my blog content marketing effort. QUESTION 4: How to create and design an effective sales funnel for your blog? How am able to create a sales or marketing funnel that attracts my ideal content clients that will convert them into paying clients? As for your business, your blog content should be the starting point of your sales funnel. I mean your traffic should be the pillar to your content pieces which will build trust and convert readers into subscribers. Email subscribers are a huge channel for every blogger - Most successful bloggers making thousands of dollars online leverage email marketing to generate sales. Email subscribers then into raving fans and then they trust your business through emails and value added content and if they are interested in your service, business or product then they become customers. It is way easier to convert your readers into subscribers or leads using content rather than using just lead magnets. How? Your content will basically showcase your expertise in whatever niche that you are in. For example, as a content marketing and writing expert, I create exclusive content on content writing and marketing and I attract startups and businesses who do not have the time or experience to write content that generates sales. And then they join my email newsletter. I then send weekly, or daily emails depending on which lead magnet they register through on this very site. This helps build trust and connection with my subscribers. And if they're interested, they email me and ask me about my services. This is how I've been able to earn from several clients. How do you create content that attracts the ideal customers/clients you need for your business? You see, publishing educational blog posts tends to convert your visitors into email subscribers way easier. If you look at the Buffer blog for example, you will notice that they put more effort into producing and publishing educational blog content around their niche (b2b, marketing) rather than company related posts. Here’s the thing; This actually depends on the type of blog you want to start. Educational blog posts, how to post, listicles, guides, etc. are posts that educate your audience on a specific topic and unlike company-related posts, they teach users, build trust and relationships that convert your readers into buyers, clients and customers. And don't forget email marketing is a huge part of your sales funnel and should not be left out. I use Wix email marketing feature for my email marketing campaigns but you can also use a free platform like MailChimp which is completely free for your first 2000 subscribers. Now finally, without effective blog marketing or promotion, every content you publish will be forgotten. Like I always say, content isn't king; Content with effective promotion or marketing is king. Do you get the idea? Now if you do not design an effective content marketing plan for your blog and implement it, then your content pieces wouldn't be generating traffic, leads or sales because no one will even see it. I mean, what is content without marketing? Here is my five (5) step plan to running a blog that generates sales on autopilot: The first step is to use Google Keyword Planner, which is completely free to generate lucrative and educative content ideas to publish. The second step is to write or create lead magnets using these ideas (from Google Keyword Planner) and create a landing page if you want. The third step is to write 3 to 7 high-converting emails and plug them into your email service provider like MailChimp or Wix. The 4th step is to build trust through these emails and send leads to your products or services by promoting them. Now the 5th and final step is to continually send traffic through SEO, Pinterest or other social media platforms to your blog content pieces. This is called content marketing and this is where most bloggers get it wrong but let me quickly explain how Google Keyword Planner works. Google's Keyword tool allows content creators and marketers to research and find keywords and key phrases that people are actually searching for online. The first step is to use this free keyword tool to find lucrative content or keywords to create blog content your customers/clients want rather than just creating random content you think your audience wants. Starting out, I was creating content I felt people needed, but with these tools, you will actually be creating content that people are actually searching for on search engines just like Google. This will help you attract the right traffic that your business actually needs. This is why I say you don't need millions of traffic to make $1000 a month blogging. You could just simply create good content that attracts the right traffic and then convert this into sales or leads and make your sales as a Blogger. The first thing you need to do is to go to the Google Keyword Planner account. This will take you to the main Google Keyword Planner dashboard. There you will need to navigate to tools and select your keyword planner. You can input your keywords that are related and Google Keyword Planner will bring out related keywords and the details for every keyword that you've inserted. You can also manually run some of these searches on Google AutoComplete to find related keywords to include within your content. Now the next thing is to create pillar content that fits perfectly into your blog sales funnel. For me, I prefer to make a quick funnel plan before I even begin writing and publishing my blog content pieces. This way you don't waste hours writing content that doesn't fit or convert into sales for your new blog. Now here’s the call; Drop a comment below with your most disturbing blogging question and I’ll reply within a few hours. Finally, do you need an experienced blog content writer for your startup, blog or company? Feel free to reach out to me via simonzakucom@gmail.com with all the details on how I can help you create content that ranks fast and generates sales. Thank you once more for reading this guide! Best, Simon Taki Zaku