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Have you ever wondered why Abuja is one of the most talked-about cities in Nigeria? I can relate. Growing up in Taraba State, Abuja was like a faraway dream for me. I’d hear stories from my parents about the beautiful buildings, clean streets, and opportunities there. But visiting was out of reach at the time. My first trip to Abuja came in 2010, when my family and I visited a relative, and the city lived up to every expectation - and more. Since then, I’ve lived in Abuja for some years and passed through frequently while traveling to other parts of Nigeria. Abuja is not just the seat of power; it’s a city of endless charm, opportunities, and history. Let me take you on a deep dive into everything you need to know about Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT). History of Abuja, Nigeria Before Abuja became Nigeria’s capital, Lagos held that title. However, Lagos became overcrowded, and its location on the southwestern coast posed security risks. In 1976, General Murtala Muhammed’s administration decided to move the capital to a more central and neutral location. Abuja was chosen due to its central position, accessibility, and relatively low population. Construction began in the late 1970s, and by 1991, under General Ibrahim Babangida, Abuja officially became Nigeria’s capital. Geography of Abuja Abuja is located in the heart of Nigeria, making it easily accessible from all regions. Land Area: 7,315 km² Coordinates: Latitude 9.0765° N, Longitude 7.3986° E Climate: Abuja experiences a tropical climate with a distinct dry and rainy season. The city is surrounded by hills and notable landmarks like Aso Rock, which gives the city its unique skyline. Areas in Abuja - Nigeria's FCT Abuja is divided into districts, with each offering unique attractions and features: 1. Central Area: The business hub of Abuja. Home to the Federal Secretariat, National Assembly, and major hotels. 2. Asokoro: Known for its exclusivity. Houses top government officials and embassies. 3. Maitama: One of Abuja’s wealthiest neighborhoods. Features upscale restaurants, luxury homes, and international schools. 4. Wuse: Divided into Zones 1-7, it’s a lively area with markets, malls, and residential spaces. 5. Gwarinpa: Known as the largest housing estate in West Africa. Offers affordable accommodations for middle-income earners. 6. Kubwa and Nyanya: Suburban areas popular for their affordability and vibrant local markets. Life in Abuja, Nigeria Living in Abuja is a mix of luxury, opportunity, and hustle. The city offers: Top-notch infrastructure: Good road networks and constant electricity in most areas. Diverse culture: People from all over Nigeria live here. Job opportunities: Especially in government, corporate organizations, and NGOs. However, Abuja can feel fast-paced and expensive, so you’ll need to budget wisely. Cost of Living in Abuja, Nigeria. Abuja is one of Nigeria’s most expensive cities. Here’s a breakdown: Rent: ₦800,000–₦3,000,000 annually for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas. Food: ₦500–₦1,500 per meal in local restaurants. Transportation: Taxis cost ₦300–₦700 per trip within the city. If you’re strategic, you can live comfortably in suburban areas like Lugbe, Kubwa, or Karu without breaking the bank. Popular Restaurants in Abuja Foodies will love Abuja’s culinary scene: BluCabana Restaurant & Café: Known for its continental dishes. The Charcoal Grill: Famous for grilled meat and Nigerian cuisine. Jevinik Restaurant: Offers delicious traditional meals like egusi soup and jollof rice. Nkoyo: Known for its beautiful ambiance and local dishes. Popular Hotels in Abuja If you’re visiting Abuja, here are some top hotels to consider: Transcorp Hilton: A 5-star luxury hotel in the Central District. Sheraton Abuja Hotel: Renowned for its comfort and excellent service. Fraser Suites: Perfect for long-term stays with family. Bolton White Hotels: Affordable yet classy accommodations. Popular Places to Visit in Abuja Abuja is full of attractions that showcase its beauty and history: Aso Rock: A natural landmark and a must-visit. Millennium Park: Perfect for picnics and outdoor relaxation. National Mosque and National Christian Centre: Architectural masterpieces. Jabi Lake Mall: A shopping mall with a serene lakeside view. Zuma Rock: Located just outside Abuja, this monolith is known as the “Gateway to Abuja.” Facts About Abuja 1. Capital City Since 1991: Abuja replaced Lagos as Nigeria’s capital. 2. Home to Aso Rock: A natural wonder towering over the city. 3. Diverse Population: Abuja has residents from all ethnic groups in Nigeria. 4. Official Language: English, but you’ll hear Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and more. Past and Present Ministers of FCT Mamman Kontagora (1998–1999) El-Rufai Nasir (2003–2007): Known for transforming Abuja’s infrastructure. Nyesom Wike (2023–Present): Focuses on urban renewal and development. The Aso Rock, FCT - Nigeria. Aso Rock is the most iconic landmark in Abuja. It is a 400-meter monolith and serves as the backdrop for important government buildings, including: The Presidential Villa The Supreme Court The National Assembly The Presidential Villa Located in Asokoro, the Presidential Villa is the official residence and office of Nigeria’s President. It is also known as Aso Villa and is a highly secured area. Neighboring States Abuja is bordered by these states: Nasarawa: To the east. Niger: To the west. Kogi: To the south. These states contribute to Abuja’s vibrant economy and culture. Mineral Resources in Abuja Abuja is rich in minerals like: Marble Clay Tin Granite Languages Spoken in Abuja English: The official language. Hausa: Widely spoken as a trade language. Yoruba and Igbo: Common among residents. Other Nigerian languages like Gwari, Tiv, and Kanuri can also be heard. Conclusion - Are You Pumped to Visit Abuja? Abuja is more than just Nigeria’s capital; it’s a city of possibilities, culture, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, or a fresh start, Abuja offers something for everyone. Pro Tip: If you’re new to Abuja, start by exploring areas like Wuse and Central District for a feel of the city’s energy and culture. Until next time, Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng For IbiFoundry.com.ng/blog

How do you write an outreach email? Does cold email outreach still work today? The short answer is YES but not as it used to be! As a beginner SEO, I made so many mistakes reaching out to clients for my SEO services . At that point, I knew I needed to change my approach. I knew I needed a better strategy to reach out to influencers and potential clients. I started trying new cold outreach strategies and was able to collaborate (and get replies) with some of the most influential people in my space. Let me explain what a cold email reach-out is. What is a Cold Email Outreach? (cold call/text) What is a Cold Email Outreach? A cold email reach out in simple terms, is an e-mail, a text, or a call whereby a party is getting in touch with another party that is not necessarily familiar with them to start a connection with which might be beneficial in the long run. If you're reaching out or emailing a business owner, or anyone who does not know you, then that is called a cold email reach out, a cold, DM, or a call. What is a warm email in business or sales? What is a Warm Email Outreach? A warm outreach e-mail is any reach-out sent to someone you've already built a degree of acquaintance, friendship, or establishment with. And that is where the secret lies. It's easier to get replies from people who already know you than people who do not know you, so unlike cool reach out. Unlike a cold reach-out, this is you sending an e-mail, DM, or text to a lead or influencer who already knows you or is familiar with your brand. What is my cold reach-out strategy? My Cold Outreach Strategy - the VCR Outreach Strategy It's simple. My cold reach-out strategy involves a couple of tasks on social media like X, Instagram, LinkedIn, etcetera. Before emailing any lead or influencer, I hit the influencer either on LinkedIn, X, or Instagram. I also follow their brand on LinkedIn, reply to some of their tweets, repost Instagram posts, and tag them. 5-Step Hack to a Powerful Cold E-Mail Outreach Campaign that Gets Results Here are the 5 steps to sending powerful cold outreach emails that generate replies quickly: Step 1: Make Your Email Reach-out List. Step 2. Build Pre, Reach out Rapport. Step 3: Create & Find a Perfect Template Step 4: Start Reaching Out Using My Unique Strategy Step 5: Follow-up After 3 to 5 Days. Let’s go through; Step 1: Make Your Outreach List (step by step) Can cold emails get clients? At some point in my digital marketing and SEO career, I decided to reach out to 1000 businesses to pitch my social media marketing services. But even after reaching over 1000 businesses, not a single one converted. a client. For that campaign, I went on Fiverr and paid a freelancer to get me thousands of random leads (never do this) for me to reach out to. Not a single one converted! How to Find Lucrative Leads to Reach out to in 5 Minutes This is a Quora Strategy. I call it the Quora Hack. What I do is I head over to Quora.com  and find keywords that my target SEO clients are searching for on the Q and A platform. Quora is a platform that allows people Internet users to ask any questions and get answers from experts on the platform for free now, for instance, since I'm looking for businesses in need of SEO, blog writing, and marketing services I search for. "Should I hire a content freelance writer or a freelance content writer for hire?" Or "What are the benefits of writing or hiring a content marketer?" I get to find real Internet users who are looking for my SEO services. I also get to find my clients' ideal pain points and I can easily reach out to them through social media platforms. Next step? The next thing is I get the names of the users asking these questions on Quora or other community forums and I try to find a little more information about them. This way I have an organic leads list that is that is most likely going to convert. Finally, I get freelancers for $5 to find their social media handles, working e-mail addresses, websites, Google profiles, etc. This way I can build rapport with leads even before I reach out. This leads us to the second step in the VCR Outreach Strategy. Step 2. Build Rapport with Leads (Pre-Reach-out). Building rapport is crucial because this will increase the chances of getting a reply from your cold email campaigns. You can almost always guarantee that you will get a reply. This may not convert to clients or sales all the time, but will most likely get a positive reply. With social media platforms like X, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc, you can easily build connections with anyone on your pre-reach-out list. How exactly do you do this? How exactly do I do this? Here is my cold reach-out strategy: Step 1:  Follow the lead on Instagram and comment on their recent IG post or IG reel. Step 2:  Follow their feed on LinkedIn and send a personal connection request (never pitch here). Step 3:  If a connection request is accepted, send a warm introductory message letting them know who you are. And don't forget, do not sell to them yet. Step 4 : Ask for their permission to email them your idea. The next step is to create a perfect template for your reach-out. Step 3: Create or Design 2 to 5 Email Templates that Work This is where it gets tricky. Getting the perfect template you can use can be challenging but if you understand the concept of reaching out. I mean, if you can keep your template short, concise, and straight to the point, you're definitely on the right track. Influencers barely have the time to check and read long emails. This is why long emails do not work. I do not advise anyone to use long emails. I mean they get dozens and dozens of emails every day. Yours has to stand out from the pool of emails. You see, the first thing to understand is the concept of titles, headlines, and subject lines. Keeping your emails short, concise, and straight to the point will increase your conversion rates. Step 4: Sending Video Outreach Emails - the Video Cold Reach-out Formula (VCR) What is the VCR technique for writing cold outreach emails? VCR in outreach marketing means the 'Video Cold Reach-out' hack. This strategy I coined involves creating unique and personal videos for each lead to watch. Why not record short selfie videos or short audio, upload them on a cloud storage, and email them links? This way, they would trust you faster. If you get this, it means you would create videos rather than write long emails that may end up in the spam folder. I got this strategy from Brian Harris of VideoFruit and this turned out to be one of the best email outreach strategies I have used over the years. Example of VCR Outreach Strategy in action: Let's say, I want to reach out to Brian Harris for my SEO and blog writing services. I shoot a 20 to 60-second video on how I can help his company or startup leverage content marketing to generate more traffic leads and hopefully convert them into customers. Do you get the idea? Rather than sending random texts in the form of e-mail, you show yourself and explain what you can do. This way people will easily trust you and reply to you. Even though it may not immediately turn to sales, you will most likely get replies which is very powerful because: You show yourself, You physically explain your work, You avoid long emails Get more opens. Step 5: The Final Step, the Follow-up Stage. I've made a good return on investment just by following up on potential leads that I have reached out to who may have not opened my emails or haven't replied. I use a free email tracking tool that tracks e-mail opens and e-mail clicks to find out who has opened my emails, who hasn't clicked my links, and all of that. What I do is I find a great title resend a great subject line and resend a follow-up e-mail after three to seven days per lead. To make this even more effective, I do this with another video. If you're not comfortable making videos, you can make audio recordings. I also use audio recordings and they work well. You need Google Drive and make a recording or even your iPhone and make a recording and send a link to the influencer to see how you can help them. I do this with another video saying something like; "Hey, I noticed you haven't opened my last e-mail. I know things can be overwhelming sometimes and you might be caught up with work and busy but I'd deeply appreciate it if you spared 30 to 60 seconds to check this video that I made for you. Thank you so much and I hope to hear back from" Don't forget to keep your emails brief. Have a productive day, my friend! Simon T. Zaku

Ha ve you ever wondered which web hosting service is best for starting your blog or website? As a Nigerian blogger, choosing the right web host can make or break your journey. Today, I’m reviewing one of the biggest names in the hosting world - Bluehost . If you’re new here, I’m Simon Taki Zaku, and I’ve been helping bloggers and entrepreneurs in Nigeria navigate the tricky world of SEO, blogging, and web hosting for years. I even started my journey from a humble hostel bunk in Nigeria! I’ve personally worked with various hosting services over the years, but Bluehost has always stood out. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about Bluehost - from features and pricing to its pros and cons - and help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. What is Bluehost ? Bluehost is one of the largest and most popular web hosting providers globally. Founded in 2003, Bluehost powers over 2 million websites and is officially recommended by WordPress.org as one of the best platforms for hosting WordPress sites. For Nigerian bloggers, Bluehost offers a great combination of affordability, reliability, and ease of use. Whether you’re starting a personal blog, an e-commerce store, or a professional business website, Bluehost has plans tailored to your needs. Why Nigerian Bloggers Love Bluehost Before diving into the features, here’s why Bluehost is a hit among Nigerian bloggers: 1. Easy Integration with WordPress: Most Nigerian bloggers use WordPress, and Bluehost offers seamless WordPress installation with just one click. 2. Affordable Pricing: Even with our exchange rates, Bluehost’s plans are relatively budget-friendly compared to competitors. 3. Reliable Uptime: Bluehost provides a 99.9% uptime guarantee, ensuring your blog is always accessible. 4. Beginner-Friendly Interface: If you’re a newbie, you’ll love Bluehost’s simple dashboard and tools. Now, let’s break down what you get with Bluehost. Bluehost Features: What You’re Paying For Here’s a detailed look at what makes Bluehost stand out: 1. User-Friendly Control Panel; Bluehost uses a simple cPanel (control panel) interface that even beginners can navigate easily. From managing your website to handling emails and backups, everything is straightforward. 2. Free Domain Name for One Year; When you sign up for a Bluehost hosting plan, you get a free domain for the first year. For Nigerian bloggers, this saves you the hassle and cost of registering a domain separately. 3. Free SSL Certificate; Security is a major concern, especially if you’re running an e-commerce site. Bluehost includes a free SSL certificate in all plans, which ensures your site is secure and ranks better on Google. 4. One-Click WordPress Installation; This feature is a lifesaver. With just a single click, Bluehost installs WordPress for you, so you can start building your blog right away. 5. 24/7 Customer Support; Bluehost provides round-the-clock support via live chat, phone, and email. As a Nigerian blogger, this is crucial because you can contact them even in our different time zones. 6. Free Website Builder; Bluehost includes an easy drag-and-drop website builder to help you design your blog without any coding knowledge. 7. Unlimited Bandwidth; All Bluehost plans come with unmetered bandwidth, so you don’t have to worry about traffic spikes crashing your site. 8. Email Hosting; Bluehost allows you to create professional email addresses (e.g., yourname@yourblog.com) at no extra cost. Bluehost Pricing and Plans: Which One is Right for You? Bluehost offers four main hosting plans: 1. Basic Plan (₦3,500/month); - 1 website - 10 GB SSD storage - Free domain for one year - Free SSL certificate - 5 email accounts This plan is perfect for new bloggers on a budget. 2. Plus Plan (₦4,800/month); - Unlimited websites - 20 GB SSD storage - Free domain for one year - Free SSL certificate - Unlimited email accounts This plan is ideal if you want to host multiple blogs or websites. 3. Choice Plus Plan (₦5,600/month); - Everything in the Plus plan - Domain privacy - Automated backups This is great for bloggers who want extra security and peace of mind. 4. Pro Plan (₦11,200/month); - Everything in the Choice Plus plan - High-performance servers - Dedicated IP The Pro plan is for advanced users with high-traffic websites. Pro Tip: If you’re just starting out, go for the Basic plan and upgrade as your blog grows. Pros of Bluehost Here’s why Bluehost might be the perfect choice for you: - Affordable Plans: With hosting starting at ₦3,500/month, it’s accessible for most Nigerian bloggers. - Freebies: Free domain, SSL certificate, and email hosting add great value. - Reliability: Bluehost guarantees a 99.9% uptime. - WordPress-Friendly: Bluehost is optimized for WordPress, offering fast load speeds and easy setup. - Beginner-Friendly: The simple interface is perfect for non-techies. Cons of Bluehost No tool is perfect, and Bluehost has its downsides: - Higher Renewal Costs: After your first year, the prices increase significantly. - No Monthly Billing: Bluehost only offers yearly billing, which might be a drawback for some Nigerians. - Limited Storage on Basic Plan: The 10 GB storage on the Basic plan may not be enough as your blog grows. H ow to Get Started with Bluehost Setting up Bluehost is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide: 1. Visit Bluehost’s Website: Go to Bluehost by clicking here. 2. Choose a Plan: Select the hosting plan that suits your needs. 3. Register Your Domain: Use the free domain offer or connect an existing one. 4. Create Your Account: Enter your details and payment information. 5. Install WordPress: Use the one-click installation to set up your blog. 6. Design Your Blog: Use the website builder or install a WordPress theme. That’s it! Your blog is live and ready to go. Bluehost Alternatives: Exploring Other Options While Bluehost is great, it’s always good to know your options. Here are some of the top alternatives: 1. SiteGround; SiteGround is known for its exceptional customer support and fast performance. However, it’s pricier than Bluehost. 2. HostGator; HostGator offers similar features to Bluehost but with slightly cheaper renewal rates. 3. Namecheap; If you’re on a tight budget, Namecheap is a good option. It offers affordable plans but lacks some of Bluehost’s advanced features. 4. DreamHost; DreamHost is another WordPress-recommended hosting provider with competitive pricing and a generous 97-day money-back guarantee. Who Should Use Bluehost? Bluehost is ideal for: - Beginner Bloggers: It’s easy to use and budget-friendly. - Small Business Owners: With email hosting and SSL, it’s perfect for small websites. - WordPress Users: Bluehost’s WordPress optimization ensures fast load speeds. However, if you need advanced features or monthly billing, you might want to explore other options. Final Verdict: Is Bluehost Worth It for Nigerian Bloggers? Absolutely ! Bluehost combines affordability, reliability, and ease of use, making it a great choice for Nigerian bloggers. While it has a few downsides, the pros far outweigh the cons. Whether you’re starting your first blog or growing an established one, Bluehost has the tools you need to succeed. Get Your Blog Started on Bluehost Right Now! Are you ready to take your blogging journey to the next level? Sign up for Bluehost today and get started with their special introductory offer. Pro Tip: If you’re still on the fence, check out the IbiFoundry blog post on starting a blog as a Nigerian, for more insights. BEGIN USING BLUEHOST HERE Until next time, Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng For [ IbiFoundry.com.ng/blog]

Do You Struggle with Social Media Management? If you’re like most entrepreneurs, small business owners, or marketers, keeping up with social media can feel like a never-ending task. You’ve got to create posts, schedule them, engage with followers, and track analyticsall while running your business. That’s where social media tools come in, and today, we’re reviewing SmarterQueue, a platform that claims to simplify your social media workflow and boost your engagement. I’m Simon Zaku, founder of IBIFoundry, and I’ve been in the digital marketing space for over 10 years. As someone who juggles managing my blog, SEO services, and personal brand, I know how crucial a good social media tool is. I’ve tried tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, and even manual posting (gasp!), but I wanted something smarter—pun intended. So, is SmarterQueue worth it? Let’s find out. What Is SmarterQueue? SmarterQueue is a social media scheduling and management tool designed to save time, increase your reach, and streamline your posting strategy. What sets it apart is its focus on content recycling, helping you maximize the lifespan of your evergreen content. It supports major platforms like: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn Pinterest The goal is to automate and optimize your social media posts so you can focus on growing your business. How SmarterQueue Works 1. Content Categories One of SmarterQueue’s unique features is the content categorization system. Instead of managing a single queue of posts, you organize your content into categories like: Blog posts Inspirational quotes Promotions Tips and tricks You set posting times for each category, and SmarterQueue ensures a balanced mix of content. 2. Recycling Evergreen Content If you’ve got evergreen content (posts that remain relevant over time), SmarterQueue automatically recycles it. For example, a blog post you shared last month can resurface again to reach new followers. 3. Visual Calendar SmarterQueue offers a drag-and-drop calendar, making it easy to plan your content schedule. You can see all your upcoming posts at a glance and tweak them as needed. 4. Analytics The tool provides insights into: Engagement rates Best-performing posts Optimal posting times This helps you refine your strategy for maximum impact. My Experience with SmarterQueue I’ve been using SmarterQueue for a few months now, and here’s what I noticed: 1. Ease of Use: The interface is clean and straightforward, even for someone who isn’t tech-savvy. Setting up my content categories and schedules took less than 30 minutes. 2. Time Savings: Instead of manually posting daily, I batch-schedule a month’s worth of content in one sitting. 3. Recycling Content: This is a game-changer for my evergreen blog posts. SmarterQueue ensures my best-performing content stays in circulation without me lifting a finger. 4. Better Engagement: By analyzing the analytics, I identified the best posting times for my audience, leading to better engagement rates. However, it’s not perfect. I’ll discuss the pros and cons in a moment. SmarterQueue Features in Detail Supported Platforms Facebook: Post to pages, groups, and personal profiles. Instagram: Schedule single-image posts, carousels, and stories. Twitter: Share text-based tweets, images, or videos. LinkedIn: Manage personal and business accounts. Pinterest: Share pins directly from SmarterQueue. Content Discovery: SmarterQueue includes a content curation tool that helps you find relevant articles, blog posts, or videos to share with your audience. You can even monitor competitors’ feeds for inspiration. Customizable Post Variations: To avoid posting identical content, SmarterQueue lets you create variations of your posts. This is especially useful for platforms like Twitter, where reposting the same content can hurt your engagement. Pros and Cons of SmarterQueue Here are both Pros and Cons of SmarterQueue: Pros of SmarterQueue Content Recycling: Automatically reuses your evergreen posts. Affordable Pricing: Starts at $16.99/month, which is cheaper than many competitors. Time Efficiency: Batch-scheduling and categorization save hours. Analytics: Helps you optimize posting times and content types. Multi-Platform Support: Manage all your social media accounts in one place. Cons of SmarterQueue Learning Curve: The categorization system may feel overwhelming at first. Limited Instagram Features: While you can schedule posts, some features (like hashtag suggestions) are less robust than tools like Later. No Free Plan: Unlike Buffer or Hootsuite, SmarterQueue doesn’t offer a free tier. How to Get Started with SmarterQueue 1. Sign Up: Visit SmarterQueue and sign up for a free trial. 2. Connect Your Accounts: Link your social media accounts to the platform. 3. Create Categories: Decide on your content categories (e.g., blog posts, promotional content). 4. Batch-Schedule Posts: Upload your content, assign it to categories, and set a schedule. 5. Analyze and Improve: Use the analytics dashboard to track your performance and tweak your strategy. Who Should Use SmarterQueue? SmarterQueue is perfect for: 1. Small Business Owners: Who want to save time on social media. 2. Content Creators: Who have a lot of evergreen posts to recycle. 3. Marketers: Looking to streamline and optimize their campaigns. If you’re new to social media management, SmarterQueue’s simple interface makes it beginner-friendly. Final Thoughts: Is SmarterQueue Worth It? For me, SmarterQueue has been a game-changer. From saving time to boosting engagement, it’s one of the most practical tools I’ve used for social media management. If you’re a Nigerian entrepreneur, creator, or marketer looking to simplify your social media strategy, I’d say SmarterQueue is worth trying. Just remember to leverage its analytics and content recycling features to get the most value. Have you tried SmarterQueue or any other social media management tools? Let me know in the comments, or sign up for my newsletter at IBIFoundry for more tips and reviews like this! Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng For Ibifoundry.com.ng/blog

From My Bunk to Your Freelance Journey Let’s talk about freelancing - the holy grail for many Nigerians looking to make a living online. My name is Simon Zaku, and I started my freelance career as a young writer and SEO specialist right from my hostel bunk here in Nigeria. I’ve been on this journey for years, working with clients from around the world through platforms like Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, and Freelancer.com. But let me tell you, it hasn’t been all rosy. In fact, I was once scammed out of $800 by a fraudulent client! Yes, that one stung. But the lessons I learned in that little room fueled my determination to crack freelancing and help others avoid the same pitfalls. This guide is a product of those experiences - a roadmap to help Nigerians tap into freelancing, avoid scams, and succeed on the right platforms. Whether you’re a writer, designer, developer, or even a voice-over artist, you’ll find something for you here. Let’s dive in! What Is Freelancing? Freelancing simply means offering your services to clients on a contract basis. You’re not tied to a company; you work for multiple clients, set your rates, and build your schedule. For Nigerians, freelancing is one of the best ways to earn in dollars, pounds, or euros - a sweet escape from the unreliable Naira. All you need is a skill, an internet connection, and the right platform to get started. Top Freelancing Platforms for Nigerians Here’s a breakdown of some of the best platforms to start your freelancing career, based on my personal experience and what works for Nigerians. 1. Fiverr Fiverr is one of the most popular freelancing platforms worldwide. It’s beginner-friendly and perfect for Nigerians with creative or technical skills. On Fiverr, you create a “Gig” (a service listing) and wait for clients to order. What You Can Do on Fiverr: Writing, graphic design, video editing, voice-over, SEO services, programming, and more. How to Get Started: 1. Sign up at Fiverr. 2. Create a profile highlighting your skills. 3. Set up a gig with clear descriptions and pricing. 4. Promote your gig on social media. Pro Tip: Use keywords in your gig title and description to rank higher on Fiverr’s search results. 2. Upwork Upwork is one of the largest freelancing platforms and ideal for Nigerians with professional skills. Unlike Fiverr, you need to send proposals to clients who post jobs. What You Can Do on Upwork: Writing, virtual assistance, project management, web development, data entry, and more. How to Get Started: 1. Create an account at Upwork. 2. Complete your profile (this is important for approval). 3. Search for jobs in your niche and send proposals. Pro Tip: Write personalized proposals to stand out. Always highlight how your skills can solve the client’s problem. 3. Freelancer.com Freelancer is another solid platform where you bid for projects. I personally got some early clients here, although the competition is high. What You Can Do on Freelancer: Writing, design, data entry, and even Nigerian-specific tasks like transcription or content localization. How to Get Started: 1. Sign up at Freelancer. 2. Verify your account and set up your profile. 3. Search for projects, place bids, and wait for client responses. Pro Tip: Don’t bid on too many projects at once - focus on jobs you’re truly qualified for. 4. PeoplePerHour I love this platform because it caters to both small and large projects. Nigerians can excel here, especially in design and writing. What You Can Do on PeoplePerHour: Copywriting, logo design, social media management, and more. How to Get Started: 1. Sign up at PeoplePerHour. 2. Create “Offers” (services) or bid for projects. Pro Tip: Build trust by getting positive reviews early on. 5. Toptal If you have advanced skills in development, design, or finance, Toptal is for you. It’s not beginner-friendly because it requires passing a rigorous screening process, but it pays top dollar. What You Can Do on Toptal: Software development, finance consulting, design, and project management. How to Get Started: 1. Apply at Toptal. 2. Complete their screening tests. Pro Tip: Showcase your experience and portfolio to stand out. 6. LinkedIn While not a traditional freelancing platform, LinkedIn is a goldmine for Nigerian freelancers. Many clients post jobs and look for talent directly on LinkedIn. How to Use LinkedIn for Freelancing: 1. Optimize your profile with keywords related to your skills. 2. Post regularly about your services. 3. Send connection requests and pitch clients directly. Freelance Categories for Nigerians Not sure what to offer? Here are some in-demand categories Nigerians excel in: 1. Writing: Blogging, copywriting, and technical writing. 2. Design: Logo design, UI/UX, and branding. 3. Tech: Web development, app development, and software engineering. 4. Virtual Assistance: Admin tasks, customer support, and email management. 5. Digital Marketing: Social media management, SEO, and email marketing. Tips for Signing Up and Avoiding Scams 1. Use a Strong Profile: Add a professional photo and detailed bio. 2. Start Small: Offer affordable services to get reviews. 3. Avoid Clients Who Refuse Platform Payments: That’s how I lost $800! 4. Always Communicate on the Platform: Protect yourself with official records. Are You a Nigerian Freelancer? Freelancing has the potential to change your life, just like it did mine. From my hostel bunk, I’ve worked with clients across the globe, earned in foreign currencies, and built a brand. You can do the same - or even better. So, which platform will you start with today? Share your story with me in the comments below or sign up for my newsletter at IBI Foundry to get more tips! Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng For Ibifoundry.com.ng/blog.

Ever wondered if Amazon is truly open for business in Nigeria? If you’ve been searching for ways to access Amazon in Nigeria, you’re in the right place. As a global shopping giant, Amazon is a go-to platform for countless Nigerians who want to buy everything from electronics to books. But navigating the world of Amazon from Nigeria can be tricky, and that’s why I’ve put together this guide to answer all your burning questions. Amazon is increasingly becoming accessible to Nigerians, with more options for delivery, payment, and a wide range of products. Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a first-timer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Amazon in Nigeria. Is Amazon Open in Nigeria? While Amazon does not yet have a dedicated Amazon Nigeria website (like it does for countries such as the UK or India), Nigerians can still shop on Amazon’s main site and enjoy deliveries to their doorstep. The process may involve international shipping, but with the right steps, you can shop seamlessly from Nigeria. Now, let’s dive deeper into what Amazon offers Nigerians. What is Amazon Nigeria? Amazon Nigeria Office: Currently, Amazon does not operate a physical office in Nigeria. However, its global services are accessible to Nigerians. With Amazon’s increasing interest in Africa, we could see more direct operations in the future. Amazon Nigeria Products Nigerians can access the same vast product range available on Amazon.com, including: Electronics (smartphones, laptops, accessories) Books (physical and Kindle eBooks) Fashion (clothing, shoes, and accessories) Home appliances Beauty and skincare products Amazon Nigeria Login To start shopping, visit Amazon.com and log in with your existing account or create a new one. The login process remains the same worldwide. Amazon Nigeria App The Amazon app is available on the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. Download it to enjoy shopping on the go. You can set your shipping location to Nigeria in the app’s settings. Amazon Nigeria Sign-Up Signing up for an Amazon account from Nigeria is simple. Follow these steps: Go to Amazon.com. Click “Create your Amazon account.” Enter your name, email address, and password. Verify your email. Congratulations, you now have an Amazon account! Amazon Nigeria Contact While there’s no local customer service, you can contact Amazon’s global support via: Help Center: Amazon Help Email or live chat available in your account’s support section. Amazon Nigeria Office Address Currently, Amazon has no office in Nigeria. Most operations are handled online or through third-party logistics companies. Amazon Nigeria Delivery Amazon delivers to Nigeria using international shipping services like DHL and UPS. Estimated delivery time can range from 7 to 30 days, depending on the shipping option you choose. How to Order on Amazon Nigeria How to Buy from Amazon in Nigeria? Here’s a step-by-step guide to buying from Amazon in Nigeria: Create or Log In to Your Account Visit Amazon.com and log in. Browse for Products Use the search bar to find items. Filter results to show products eligible for international shipping. Add to Cart Once you find a product, click “Add to Cart.” Proceed to Checkout Review your cart and click “Proceed to Checkout.” Enter Shipping Address Provide your Nigerian address. Ensure it’s complete to avoid delivery issues. Choose a Shipping Option Amazon offers various shipping methods, such as Standard (7-21 days) or Priority (3-7 days). Make Payment Use a valid payment method (credit/debit card). Amazon accepts Nigerian Naira cards. Track Your Order Once your order ships, use the tracking number to monitor delivery. FAQ Section on Amazon Nigeria Do they have Amazon in Nigeria? No, Amazon doesn’t have a local website or office in Nigeria, but Nigerians can access Amazon’s global services. Does Amazon have a company in Nigeria? Not yet, but Amazon’s logistics expansion into Africa could bring a physical presence in the future. Can I open an Amazon account from Nigeria? Yes, opening an account from Nigeria is free and easy. How much is $500 Amazon in Nigeria? This depends on the exchange rate. At a rate of ₩1,600 to $1, $500 would be ₩800,000. How much does Amazon cost in Nigeria? Costs vary depending on the product and shipping fees. You’ll also need to factor in customs duties for certain items. How many days does it take Amazon to deliver to Nigeria? Delivery typically takes between 7 to 30 days. Does Amazon accept a Naira card? Yes, Amazon accepts Nigerian debit and credit cards. Does Amazon deliver to your doorstep? Yes, delivery is often to your doorstep, depending on the courier service. How do I change my Amazon location to Nigeria? Go to “Account Settings,” then “Country/Region Settings,” and set Nigeria as your location. Which bank works with Amazon? All Nigerian banks with Visa or Mastercard-enabled cards work with Amazon. How much is $100 US Amazon card in Naira? At a rate of ₩1,600 to $1, $100 would be ₩80,000. Can I use Google Pay on Amazon? No, Amazon does not currently support Google Pay. Does Amazon have an office in Lagos? No, Amazon does not have an office in Lagos. What is the cheapest way to send a package to Nigeria? Using consolidated shipping services like MyUS or ShopToMyDoor can save costs. When did Amazon enter Nigeria? Amazon has yet to officially launch in Nigeria but has been accessible for years. What is the Amazon of Nigeria? Platforms like Jumia and Konga are often referred to as the “Amazon of Nigeria.” Where in Africa is Amazon? Amazon has a presence in South Africa but not yet in Nigeria. How to become an Amazon agent in Nigeria? You can join Amazon’s affiliate program or explore FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) partnerships. Does Amazon affiliate pay in Nigeria? Yes, Amazon pays Nigerian affiliates via Payoneer or direct bank transfer. Does it cost money to sell things on Amazon? Yes, selling on Amazon requires a monthly subscription fee and referral fees. Begin Shopping at Amazon Nigeria Ready to start shopping on Amazon Nigeria? Click here to create an account and explore endless possibilities. Don’t forget to bookmark this guide for future reference. Are you looking to maximize your online shopping or sell your products on Amazon? Contact IBI Foundry today for personalized guidance and digital solutions to enhance your e-commerce experience. Subscribe to our newsletter for more tips and tricks on navigating the online marketplace.

What comes to mind when you hear about Nigeria? Is it our bustling cities, our rich cultures, or perhaps the infectious energy of our people? Growing up in Jalingo, Taraba State, I experienced the unique tapestry that is Nigeria - a land of 250+ ethnic groups, 500 languages, and unlimited potential. Let me take you on a journey through the heart of Africa's true giant, exploring everything from its history to its modern-day marvels. History of Nigeria Pre-Colonial Era: Nigeria’s story begins thousands of years ago with the Nok civilization (circa 1500 BC), known for its remarkable terracotta sculptures. Ancient kingdoms like the Hausa city-states, the Igbo Kingdom of Nri, and the Yoruba Oyo Empire emerged, shaping diverse cultures that persist today. Colonial Era: The British colonized the region in the late 19th century, merging the Southern and Northern Protectorates in 1914 to form Nigeria. Our name, coined by journalist Flora Shaw, derives from the Niger River. Independence and Beyond: On October 1, 1960, Nigeria gained independence. Three years later, it became a republic. Since then, we’ve weathered a civil war (1967–1970) and multiple coups, finally achieving stable democracy with the 1999 constitution. Nigeria, Africa - At a Glance - Capital: Abuja - Population (2023): 230.8 million (6th largest globally). - Area: 923,769 km² - Currency: Naira (₦) - Looking to securely exchange Naira? Contact us at IBI Foundry. - Languages: English (official), Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and over 500 indigenous languages. - National Anthem: "Arise, O Compatriots". - Time Zone: West Africa Time (UTC+1). Geography and Climate Nigeria’s geography ranges from the Sahel in the north to tropical rainforests in the south. With two main seasons - rainy (April to October) and dry (November to March) - the weather reflects our diversity. - Highest Point: Chappal Waddi (2,419 m) - Major Rivers: Niger and Benue States, Capitals, and Population in Nigeria, Africa Nigeria has 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Here are some highlights: 1. Lagos (Population: ~20 million) – Nigeria’s economic hub. 2. Kano (Population: ~15 million) – Known for agriculture and trade. 3. Rivers (Population: ~7 million) – Home to Port Harcourt, the oil capital. Want the complete list of states and local governments? Visit the IBIFoundry Academy blog. Nigerian Government and Politics Nigeria operates a federal system with three branches: Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary. Democracy returned in 1999 with Olusegun Obasanjo as the first elected president of the Fourth Republic. - Current President (2024): Bola Ahmed Tinubu - Key Federal Agencies: NNPC, EFCC, NAFDAC, NCC, and more. Culture and Ethnic Groups With over 250 ethnic groups, Nigeria’s diversity is unmatched: - Hausa-Fulani: Predominantly in the north, known for farming and trading. - Yoruba: Masters of art and architecture in the southwest. - Igbo: Renowned for their entrepreneurial spirit in the southeast. My Nigerian Story; I’ll never forget my first trip to Jos, Plateau State, where I discovered the warmth of Berom hospitality and the breathtaking Shere Hills. Nigeria’s cultural richness is personal for every citizen. Top 10 Facts About Nigeria 1. Nigeria is the most populous African country. 2. Nollywood is the second-largest film industry globally. 3. Lagos has the largest tech ecosystem in Africa. 4. The Sokoto Caliphate was once the largest Islamic empire in Africa. 5. The Yoruba city of Ife dates back to the 9th century. 6. Nigeria is Africa’s largest oil producer. 7. The Nok culture produced iron by 550 BC. 8. Nigeria is home to the largest butterfly diversity in the world. 9. Kainji Dam is one of Africa’s biggest hydroelectric projects. 10. Abuja is one of the fastest-growing cities globally. Places to Visit in Nigeria - Yankari Game Reserve (Bauchi) – Wildlife and warm springs. - Obudu Mountain Resort (Cross River) – Breathtaking views and hiking trails. - Lekki Conservation Centre (Lagos) – Nature walks and Africa’s longest canopy walkway. - Zuma Rock (Niger State) – Known as the "Gateway to Abuja." Nigerian Influencers, Celebrities, and Top Companies Influencers; Nigeria boasts a robust social media presence: - Toke Makinwa – Media personality and entrepreneur. - Fisayo Fosudo – Tech reviewer and storyteller. Celebrities; From Burna Boy to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Nigerian talent dominates globally. Top Companies; - Banks: Access Bank, Zenith Bank, GTCO. - Tech: Flutterwave, Andela, Paystack. Visit Nigeria, through IBIFoundry Want to learn more about Nigeria or plan your visit? Contact IBIFoundry for travel guides, historical insights, and investment opportunities in Ibi, Taraba State and Nigeria in general. Finally, "Naija na the Real Wakanda!" Nigeria is more than a country; it’s an experience. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, there’s no place like it. As a proud Nigerian, I invite you to explore the Giant of Africa and discover why it’s truly extraordinary. Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng . For IbiFoundry.com.ng/blog/ .

Hello, IbiFoundry FAM. This is your favorite SEO consultant and content specialist . This page details "how to create and publish a new blog post in Wix". How to Publish a Blog Post in Wix - Writing Blog Articles in Wix Dashboard Wix Dashboard: This is my Wix dashboard (screenshot below) and the new Wix Studio, the updated version of Wix software. This is a step-by-step video ( watch the YouTube video here ) tutorial blog post on "how to publish a blog post in Wix". In your Wix dashboard, you can get to see your analytics. Wix Blog Tab The first thing you want to do is to go to the ' blog ' tab. To do this, hover over the ' blog ' tab to see the blog options. My Wix Studio Blog Section The Blog Overview Section The ' overview ' tab shows performance and analytics of how your blog posts are doing currently. Wix Blog tab. This is what the blog overview looks like. Wix blog overview look Wix blog over showing my last published posts Wix Blog Posts Tab The ' post'  tab is where you can create new blog posts, see your drafts, and pending posts that require approval, blog categories, tags, manage writers, and detailed analytics here. Published tab in Wix blog section. Moving to the next step, you should go to the 'post' tab. Here, we have; The Publish  tab: blog posts published live on your website. The Draft  tab: blog posts yet to be published live for visitors. So I have 66 drafts at the moment here. (This is why I'm inviting you to subscribe to my blog) The Pending tab : blog posts   that are ready to be published but require approval from let's say, an editor or the owner of the blog or website. The Scheduled  tab: here you see the blog posts that have been approved and scheduled to be published live. The trash  tab: whenever you delete any blog post from the published  tab, draft or pending , it comes to the trash tab. To publish a blog post on Wix, click Create New Blog Post . This leads to your Wix blog editor. Wix blog post composer/editor I use Google Docs to write the entire blog post. I now copy and paste it to my blog editor. I prefer to use Google Docs to write content in the Wix blog post editor. How do you give out a backlink to other websites in the Wix blog post composer? To link to any website, highlight the keywords, phrases, words, or characters. and over to the URL section and put in the target link you want. To give a backlink to another website from your wix editor, highlight the desired text first How to link to a third party website from your Wix dashboard for SEO and references With Wix, you can make your links no-follow, which means Google or search engines will not follow the target URL. And if it's a sponsored URL (like an affiliate), check the sponsored box and click save. You can see the blog post settings , SEO, categories , tags, and monetizing . Wix blog post composer settings. Wix Blog Settings Settings  - you can add your featured image, and publish dates. If you want to schedule, you can do that here. You can also select the writer that is publishing the particular blog post. In the advanced  tab, you can add blog post excerpts, and select related blog posts. Wix SEO Blog Tab The SEO tab  is one section I love because I am an SEO freak . The Wix SEO tab is Yoast SEO for WordPress. The Wix SEO Settings This tab allows you to optimize blog posts for search engines. Include your target keyword and optimize the entire article or blog post for search engines. Additionally, add alt texts, SERP titles, and more. The categories tab  - you can create and assign specific categories for your blog posts which can help with SEO. Wix Blog Categories Section Wix Blog Tags Section The tags tab  helps your readers find smaller niches within your blog categories. Wix Blog Tags Section Wix Blog Post Monetize Tab The Wix blog post monetize tab  allows Wix users to make money from individual blog posts. Wix Blog Post Monetize Tab What is one thing I love about the Wix Blog Post Editor? What I Love About the Wix Blog Post Editor I like the new Wix SEO settings because I rank quickly using the SEO settings right here. As I said, it is like the Yoast plugin for WordPress users. Preview your blog post for final review (proofreading, proper formatting, unnecessary words, typos...). When you're done you can either; publish the blog post, save as a draft  and continue later, schedule the blog post, post history , duplicate the post or; delete   To publish your final blog post on Wix, click the publish button at the top right hand corner of the Wix Blog Post Editor. And your blog post goes LIVE publish on your Wix website/blog. Newly published blog post in Wix Thank you so much for reading. Don't forget to subscribe to the blog forum and check for comments. Your favorite SEO guy, Simon Taki Zaku Please help me by sharing this pin to your Pinterest feed :)

Who runs the comedy streets of Nigeria? Let me tell you, it's the ladies! In this post, we’re celebrating the top 50 female skit makers in Nigeria who are bringing laughter to our lives, one video at a time. If you’re like me, you’ve probably binge-watched these women, laughed till your belly ached, and then wondered, “How do they come up with these skits?” As someone passionate about storytelling and content creation, this article holds a special place for me. At IBIFoundry, we believe in highlighting influential women changing the narrative in Nigeria - and these queens are doing just that. Let’s dive into who they are, why they matter, and how their creativity is shaping Nigeria’s digital comedy scene. Why Female Skit Makers Are Winning It’s not just about comedy; it’s about using creativity to build brands and tell relatable Nigerian stories. In a country where 33% of the youth are unemployed, these women have turned skit-making into a lucrative business. With millions of followers and deals from top brands, they’ve shown that hard work, creativity, and consistency pay off. Some stats to keep in mind: As of 2023, the Nigerian digital comedy industry is worth billions of Naira, with creators earning between ₦200,000 to ₦5 million per skit from ads and endorsements. Female creators are leading conversations on gender equality, relationships, and societal issues through relatable humor. Top 50 Female Skit Makers in Nigeria 1. Taaooma The queen of skit-making! Known for her relatable African mum character, Taaooma (Maryam Apaokagi) dominates the comedy scene. Her skits explore family dynamics, societal norms, and everyday life. 2. Kiekie Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, aka Kiekie, brings energy and wit. With her versatile content, she’s carved a niche, mixing fashion and comedy. 3. Ashmusy Amarachi Amusi, aka Ashmusy, creates hilarious content that blends Nigerian slangs, relationships, and trending issues. 4. Ada Jesus Comedy She stands out with her sharp wit and skits centered on relationships, gossip, and family dynamics. 5. Real Warri Pikin Known for her relatable, funny take on marriage and motherhood, Anita Asuoha never misses the mark. 6. Maraji One of the pioneers in the skit-making scene, Gloria Oloruntobi’s multi-character skits paved the way for many. 7. Caramel Plugg Known for her commentary on Gen Z lifestyle, Caramel brings vibes, humor, and sarcasm in equal measure. 8. Iya Mufu Her “Iya Mufu” character is a hit. She uses this persona to highlight family drama and the hilarity of Nigerian parenting. 9. Lizzy Jay (Omo Ibadan) This comic actress showcases Yoruba culture and tackles societal issues in a light-hearted way. 10. Kemz Mama Adeyela Adebola, aka Kemz Mama, delights fans with her character “Mummy Wa,” often featured in Mr. Macaroni’s skits. (16 Other Relevant Female Content Creators & Skit-Makers Worth Celebrating) Twins Love Comedy Florence Faj Vivian Adaeze (Purple Speedy) Eunice Omorogie Tacha Bants Tomama Moyin the Entertainer Chioma Love Funmi Nimi Blessing Aki Eniola Ajao (Eniola Comedy) Tomiwa Sage Shanky's Tales Yemi Alade Comedy Nons Miraj (Ada Jesus) Funky Akindele These ladies keep pushing boundaries, ensuring no moment of boredom exists in our lives. What Makes Them Stand Out? 1. Relatable Content: Their stories feel personal to every Nigerian. 2. Social Media Consistency: From Instagram to TikTok, they know how to stay in your face. 3. Brand Collaborations: Many of them have partnered with global brands like Coca-Cola, MTN, and Dangote. 4. Skillful Editing: They create high-quality videos that keep us hooked. The Impact of Female Skit Makers on Influencer Marketing These women are more than comedians - they are influential brand voices. A skit maker like Taaooma or Kiekie can generate millions of views, ensuring a brand’s message is heard. Research shows 70% of Nigerians make purchase decisions based on recommendations from influencers. Want to Build a Skit-Making Career or Leverage Influencer Marketing? Here’s the truth: skit-making is a goldmine, and these queens have proven it. But it’s not just about funny videos - it’s about building a personal brand, engaging with audiences, and aligning with brands authentically. At IBI Foundry, we’re here to help you: Create a solid digital strategy. Find the right influencers to market your brand. Build a powerful personal brand as a creator. Conclusion: Join the IBIFoundry Movement Want to learn more about influencer marketing or need help growing your brand? Join the IBI Foundry newsletter for exclusive tips, tricks, and guides. If you’re a creator or skit maker, we’d love to work with you. Let us help you grow your audience, land brand deals, and monetize your content effectively. Together, we can take Nigerian digital creativity to the world stage. Let’s make it happen! Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng For Ibifoundry.com.ng/blog

Influencer marketing in Nigeria is on the rise, with men taking the lead across various industries - from comedy and tech to fashion and lifestyle. Just like female skit makers, male influencers are leaving an indelible mark on social media, with millions of followers tuning in for their content every day. As someone who has always admired the way individuals can creatively build their brands online, I find the rise of male influencers in Nigeria both exciting and inspiring. In this blog post, I will highlight 50 top Nigerian male influencers, categorizing them by platform, and exploring their unique contributions to Nigerian pop culture. If you're a brand looking to collaborate or a content creator looking for inspiration, this post is for you. Top 50 Male Influencers in Nigeria (Categorized by Platform) Instagram Influencers Instagram is one of the most popular platforms in Nigeria, and these male influencers have mastered the art of building large, engaged audiences. From lifestyle to fitness and comedy, here’s a look at the best male influencers on Instagram. 1. Broda Shaggi Known For: Hilarious skits and relatable comedy. Followers: Over 10 million Platform: Instagram Fun Fact: His "Broda Shaggi" character is a fan favorite, making him one of the most-followed comedians in Nigeria. 2. Mr Macaroni Known For: Comedy and social justice advocacy. Followers: 5 million Platform: Instagram Fun Fact: He frequently uses his platform to speak on societal issues in a funny and engaging way. 3. Patoranking Known For: Music and lifestyle content. Followers: 8 million Platform: Instagram Fun Fact: The Grammy-nominated artist also shares a lot of motivational content and posts about his travels. 4. Don Jazzy Known For: Music, business, and hilarious skits. Followers: 15 million Platform: Instagram Fun Fact: He is known for his funny facial expressions and memes. Don Jazzy’s hilarious antics have made him a favorite among Nigerian audiences. 5. Alexx Ekubo Known For: Fashion, lifestyle, and motivational content. Followers: 3.2 million Platform: Instagram Fun Fact: The Nollywood actor shares a lot about his personal life, his passion for fashion, and his entrepreneurial ventures. Twitter Influencers While Instagram and TikTok dominate visual content, Twitter is where many Nigerian influencers express their thoughts, share news, and even engage in debates. These male influencers are using Twitter to influence public opinion and share unique perspectives. 6. Kunle Afolayan Known For: Film and entertainment industry commentary. Followers: 1.5 million Platform: Twitter Fun Fact: Kunle Afolayan is a pioneer in the Nigerian movie industry and often shares insights into the world of film production. 7. Burna Boy Known For: Music and activism. Followers: 4 million Platform: Twitter Fun Fact: The Grammy-winning artist uses his platform to speak on global issues and push for social change. 8. Folarin Falana (Falz) Known For: Comedy, music, and advocacy. Followers: 2 million Platform: Twitter Fun Fact: Falz uses his music and his Twitter platform to speak about political issues and human rights in Nigeria. 9. Tunde Ednut Known For: Celebrity news, gossip, and entertainment. Followers: 3.5 million Platform: Twitter Fun Fact: Tunde Ednut is one of the most controversial influencers, known for stirring up conversations on trending celebrity topics. 10. Femi Adesina Known For: Political commentary. Followers: 2.5 million Platform: Twitter Fun Fact: Femi Adesina is an influential figure in Nigerian politics, offering daily updates on Nigerian political affairs. TikTok Influencers TikTok has taken the world by storm, and Nigerian male influencers are making waves on this fast-growing platform with their creativity and relatability. 11. Zlatan Ibile Known For: Music and hilarious TikTok videos. Followers: 4.5 million Platform: TikTok Fun Fact: The Zanku king is known for his unique dance moves and skits on TikTok. 12. KieKie Known For: Comedy and lifestyle. Followers: 2.8 million Platform: TikTok Fun Fact: KieKie is not just a comedian; he is also a fashion icon, blending humor with style in his TikTok videos. 13. The Comedian Known For: Pranks and skits. Followers: 1.5 million Platform: TikTok Fun Fact: His pranks on friends and family are both hilarious and heartwarming. 14. Shankcomedy Known For: Skits and funny commentary. Followers: 1.2 million Platform: TikTok Fun Fact: Shankcomedy’s humor is known for being sarcastic and extremely relatable, appealing to a wide audience. 15. Uti Nwachukwu Known For: TV presenting and motivational content. Followers: 500K Platform: TikTok Fun Fact: Uti uses his TikTok platform to offer life lessons and motivational talks, alongside his entertainment gigs. YouTube Influencers YouTube is a great platform for long-form content, and Nigerian male influencers are making the most of it. These influencers have large, engaged communities that tune in for their regular content. 16. Mark Angel Comedy Known For: Skits with kids and family-friendly comedy. Subscribers: 7.8 million Platform: YouTube Fun Fact: The Mark Angel Comedy channel is one of the biggest comedy channels in Nigeria, loved for its hilarious sketches. 17. Emmanuel Igbokwe Known For: Comedy skits and lifestyle vlogs. Subscribers: 500K Platform: YouTube Fun Fact: Emmanuel is known for his creative takes on everyday scenarios, combining humor with life lessons. 18. Dolan Twins Known For: Comedy, pranks, and challenges. Subscribers: 1.5 million Platform: YouTube Fun Fact: These twins bring high-energy content with their prank videos, challenges, and skits. 19. Baba De Baba Known For: Skits, motivational content, and lifestyle vlogs. Subscribers: 1 million Platform: YouTube Fun Fact: Baba De Baba uses his platform to share motivational speeches and tips for navigating life. 20. Jamal Gaddafi Known For: Educational and entertainment content. Subscribers: 800K Platform: YouTube Fun Fact: Jamal blends knowledge with entertainment, offering interesting insights on various topics while maintaining humor throughout. Conclusion: Time to Join IBI Foundry for Influencer Marketing Success If you’re an aspiring influencer or a brand looking to work with top influencers, don’t miss out on the incredible opportunities in Nigeria. These male influencers have shown us that with creativity, consistency, and the right platform, you can become an industry leader. Want to leverage influencer marketing to take your brand to the next level? Join the IBI Foundry newsletter to learn more about how to tap into the potential of influencers. Let’s work together and boost your brand with the power of influencer collaborations.

The Journey of Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian. - By Founder, IBIFoundry: Distinguish Senator David SU Jimkuta __________ I cannot publish this letter without shining a light on Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian, the author of this Open Letter to the Distinguished Senator, David SU Jimkuta. Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian currently serves as the Special Assistant To Distinguish Senator David SU Jimkuta, On Media Matters. Long before the elections, Hon. Emmanuel was a steadfast advocate for the Jimkuta vision. I remember how he tirelessly posted updates, shared Jim-K speeches, and rallied support on social media. His dedication was unwavering, and his story is a testament to what loyalty and hard work can achieve. To see Emmanuel now, serving in an official capacity under the Jim-K leadership, is inspiring. It shows that the Dist. Senator recognizes and rewards commitment, a trait that is rare and admirable in the growth of every community. Over to the Special Assistant To Dist Senator David SU Jimkuta (On Media Matters); Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian. ___________ An Open Letter to Dist. Senator David SU Jimkuta: Gratitude and Hopes for the Future (by Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian) Dear Dist. Senator David SU Jimkuta, I write this letter not just as an observer but as someone who has seen the impact of your work. On behalf of the southern Tarabans, I, Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian, your loyal Special Assistant on Media Matters, want to express my heartfelt gratitude. Gratitude for Your Impact Since taking office as the Dist. Senator for Taraba South, your initiatives have not gone unnoticed. From initiating local skill acquisition programs to distributing food items to the needy, your efforts are setting a great standard for leadership. These programs have empowered our youth, given hope to our women, and strengthened our communities. Your support for education, especially through scholarships and sponsorships for young minds, is commendable. These actions prove that you are not just a leader but a builder of legacies. Our Hopes for the Future Dist. Senator Jimkuta, your achievements have been significant, but the journey is far from over. Taraba South is a land of immense potential, and your leadership can unlock even more. Here are a few areas we hope the Jim-K Movement will focus on in the coming years: 1. Expand Skill Acquisition Programs: Let’s empower more youths with skills that make them self-reliant. Programs in agriculture, tech, and entrepreneurship can be game-changers. Especially in this AI age. 2. Promote IBIFoundry: This platform celebrates Taraba’s untold stories and showcases our talent and potential. Your support in amplifying its reach can inspire many more to invest in our state. 3. Infrastructure Development: From better roads to improved healthcare facilities, we look forward to seeing tangible changes that uplift the lives of Taraba’s citizens. 4. Advocate for Tourism: Taraba is home to breathtaking sites like the Mambilla Plateau, Ibi River, and Gashaka-Gumti National Park. Promoting these treasures can boost our economy and put us on the global map. Continuing the Legacy of Change and Development in Taraba South Your leadership has already brought hope to many. But there’s more to do. We encourage you to champion platforms like IBIFoundry that align with your vision for a better Taraba. Share our stories, amplify our voices, and inspire the next generation of leaders. Distinguish Sen. David SU Jimkuta, this is not just a letter of gratitude but a call for continued excellence. Your journey is an inspiration, and we believe in your ability to transform Taraba South. Thank you for all you’ve done, and we look forward to witnessing even greater achievements under your leadership. --- With gratitude, Hon. Za'aku Emmanuel Agbu-zikhian. Special Assistant To Distinguish Senator David SU Jimkuta On Media Matters ✍️🇳🇬 For; IbiFoundry.com.ng , IbiFoundry.com.ng/blog/ Simon Taki Zaku Founder, IBIFoundry Limited.

What should I name my blog? What title should my blog be? These are questions new bloggers tend to ask before starting their blogs. A blog is a way to create content periodically and reach a particular target audience. You create interesting content frequently for your readers. It’s a great way to build a community around any type of brand. This is why big brands like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter run their blogs and create content. One of the most important things to ask when starting your new blog is how to name your blog right? There are so many blogs today and most of them have branded names. Popular ones are; Mashable, Lifehack.org , CopyBlogger.com , and; TechCrunch. Naming your blog may sound easy but when you want to start your blog, it could feel a bit overwhelming. One of the most important aspects of setting up your blog is selecting a name that sets your brand right. Your blog name will play a very crucial role in your blog’s branding strategy. This means if you can create a powerful blog name, you can have a long-lasting brand effect on your audience and customers. Today, there are more than half a billion blogs on the internet. Yet, only a few get good traffic from direct, search and social networks. And your blog’s name plays an important role. When I began, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to use my name or use a branded name (something that wasn’t my name). And this made me spend so much time deciding. I wanted to start a blog in the technology industry. I wanted my blog to cover tech tips, tricks, and news. But I got confused about what name to use. As a technology blogger, should I make it a personal brand or a business brand? I mean if I were to use a personal name or domain, I’d miss out on a ton of traffic because people in the technology space tend to trust huge brands for tech news. Think brands like; TechCrunch, Mashable, Wired, The Next Web, Google etc. How Important is a Good Blog Name for Your Branding and SEO? Picking a personal name would mean my blog would sound and feel more personal than what tech blogs are. If my blog was named myfullname.com, it would be hard to tell if it’s a tech blog or a personal blog where I share my life stories. Or do I use a made-up name to sort of suit the brand voice and style? Think of names like Labnol (a tech blog by Amit Agarwal). I thought about so many different names for my blog. I researched if I should go for a personal or branded blog name but no guide seemed to explain my exact situation. I started coming up with random names like; Techtional (eventually used this). Techzaku Zakutech Mytechblog etc. It was overwhelming picking a name to use and as a result, I picked the wrong name which eventually caused my blog. In weeks, I had closed that very blog, techtional.com. Let me show you how to select the right blog name. We’ve put together a list of action strategies to find a unique name that sends the right message to your audience. Your blog name gives people clues about what your blog is all about. Without clicking your blog’s URL, your visitors should be able to paint a picture of what they should expect on your blog or website. “Problogger” is a blog for blogging tips and tricks. “ContentMarketingInstitute” is a content and marketing blog. “Nerdfitness” is a fitness or wellness blog. This will draw users to your blog by giving hints on what your blog is all about. Sometimes, visitors can have a feel of what your brand is all about. For instance, “Learn to Code with Me” should give you a feeling that you’d probably be learning about programming from a cool, experienced tech guy. Get the idea? Now, How Do You Make a Catchy Blog Name? [50 Blog Name Ideas & Examples Included!] You see, there’s a lot attached to naming a blog; you need to ensure it rings the right bell to people’s ears, is memorable, and represents your brand voice and style. Does your blog name represent your blogging voice? Can your audience easily recall your blog name? Does your blog name limit areas you can publish about? If your blog’s name is Dailyblogtips.com, you should have a plan to release mostly blogging-related topics daily. These are a few things you need to consider before selecting a blog name and we’ve broken this into four (4) simple steps. Pick a blogging niche. Research your niche and see what works (what voice resonates better with your audience). Begin brainstorming blog name ideas. Do domain and brand name check. Step #1: Select a Good Blogging Niche (and Be Crystal Clear About it). Your blog niche is super important when selecting your blog name. This step is the first I recommend because it sets the tone for your content, audience, brand voice, and even blog name. Coming up with blog names that match your brand style and fit the market depends on how well your niche is down. When I began, I spent quite a good time figuring out what blog niche to go into because I understood how crucial it was. And this step helped me decide on my blog name easier. Your niche determines how and what strategy you follow to name your blog. If you know your niche well, it will be pretty easy to name your blog. I also have a complete guide on finding the perfect blogging niche. Check the Ibifoundry Academy blog to read. Me, I love talking about Nigeria, local African talents, marketing. But not just any marketing; content marketing. And not just for any type of business, I specialize in helping software businesses. Your niche will help narrow your name ideas. You know the types of names that would work and those that may not. How will you select your blog niche? Step #2: Research Your Niche & See What Works (wetin your audience want?). If you want to be able to come up with good names for your blog then you need to do a lot of research. You need to know the ins and outs of your industry. If you must have a perfect blog name, you must know what works and what doesn’t (in your niche). When I was coming up with my blog name, recall that I had ideas like techblogng, techtional, and so forth for my technology blog. I stayed away from using my name or using initials. Rather, I went for names that showed my readers what my blog was about before checking. Knowing what type of names work in your industry is a crucial step in coming up with great blog name ideas for your new blog. For instance, freelancers tend to use their names for their blog names and domains. This is because it’s more of a portfolio with a blog. But as a technology or a travel space, made-up names with niche keywords work better. All Tech Buzz by Imran Uddin TechLila by Rajesh Namase Travelure by Ajay Sood Travel Freak by Jeremy Scott Foster You can go on social networks and community platforms to learn what works for your industry. You can even ask publicly for expert suggestions on Quora. You’d get real answers and suggestions from real people who could have experience in your field or niche. Here’s how to ask for blog name suggestions from experts on Quora: Head over to Quora.com and log in. Ask a question like in your niche. Check similar websites to see what they are doing. Find and go through 10 to 15 of your competitor's websites to see what type of names they use. Let’s use the cooking niche for example; Loveandlemons.com Cookie and Kate Cookieandkate.com Smitten Kitchen Smittenkitchen.com Closet Cooking Closetcooking.com Or the Fashion Space; Hello Fashion Hellofashionblog.com What My Boyfriend Wore Whatmyboyfriendwore.com We Wore What Weworewhat.com We can notice that popular blogs in the fashion and cooking industries tend to use made-up names with industry-related keywords. What My Boyfriend Wore Keyword: “Wore”. Industry: Fashion Smitten Kitchen Keyword: “Kitchen”. Industry: Cooking. But looking freelancers, consultants, or speakers, tend to use personal names. Elnacain.com Simonzaku.com (mine) Paulmaplesden.com You simply need to do a lot of research to find what works in your industry. But do not limit yourself to what you see or what you read. There are lots of new ideas you can come up with by NOT following what works. Just put down everything you can think of! Here are some ideas off the top of my head: Chop Chop Soup When Vegetables Meet Diet basket Fruits and fluids Veggies Living In The Fridge Foodie Therapy Footprints in Flour Kitchen Closeup Food frenzy Lifeandapril Skinny Chit Chat Forevers Fitting In Running Mom Fitness in the City Healthful Summer Do A Run Waiting 4 Sunshine Do A Run Get Fit Mom Makeup in Corso My Beauty Junction Next, Learn About Your Blog's Target Audience? Going deep into knowing your target audience is a powerful advantage in every business or company. The more you learn about your target customers, the better you serve them. If you know the problems your target customers are looking for solutions to, you’d provide the perfect solutions, right? It is crucial to consider your target audience when choosing a name for your blog. And to find out about your target audience, you need to do more than just keyword research. Your target customers are humans. They are on social networks, community platforms, and blogs too. They ask real questions and find solutions on the web. For example, Apetogentleman.com targets men that are into fashion. While Theathletic.com targets sports fans. Next, What Is Your Writing Style or Tone Like? Knowing your writing style or tone of the message is also powerful. The way you would communicate with your target audience should be able to reflect on your blog name. Are you a formal or conversational writer? For example, blog names like “Learn to Code With Me”, “Rob Has a Podcast”, and “Scary Mommy” are great blogs with conversational writing styles. On the other hand, names like “TechCrunch”, “Problogger”, and “Engadget” all give a more final or professional feel. Know your writing style and select a good name for your new blog. Step #3: Begin Brainstorming Blog Name Ideas. Begin by using free blog name generators to get ideas on what to begin putting down. Please do not pay attention to these names now as you’re just using these to kickstart some ideas in your head. A good tool you could use is the Wix Blog Name Generator. Other Blog Name Generators you can use are; Blog Name Generator by Themeisle Namebounce Wordoid Panabee Zyro Business Name Generator Domainwheel Nameboy You can see a bunch of ideas you could use to bring even more. At this point, I prefer to use my notepad or a pen and paper (I tend to brainstorm easier) to put down my ideas. Consider picking up your dictionary to do some reading. The thesaurus is also a great place to go when you want to figure out how to come up with name ideas for your blog. Spend some time brainstorming ideas to use for your blog. This could be a travel blog, a fashion blog, a lifestyle blog or anything else. You can do this by looking up the thesaurus. You can look up synonyms, antonyms, etc. The idea is to get as many ideas as possible. Here are some random blog name ideas in the food space that I just came up with: Food Niche: Herbfoodkitchen Foodkitchenother Giantfoodkitchen Afoodkitchen Webfoodkitchen Thisfoodkitchen Foodkitchenhome sefoodkitchenV Withfoodkitchen Servicesfoodkitchen Foodkitchenabout Forfoodkitchen Ifoodkitchen Foodkitchenbiz Health Blog Name Ideas: Forhealthfitness Healthfitnessonline Healthfitnessservice Myhealthfitness Byhealthfitness Webhealthfitness Healthfitnessforest Thehealthfitness Healthfitnessdvd Ihealthfitnes More tips for naming your blog today: Start with a keyword focus. It is a good idea to include a niche keyword in your blog name. Think of a name that’s easy to pronounce. When thinking about blog names, you should remember that people visit a lot of websites daily and can easily forget yours. Avoid using hyphens when possible. Hyphens make it difficult for users to type in URLs. Avoid using names that are copyrighted. Now some names could be available but may be copyrighted. For example, “Fasebuuuook.com”. Consider using your name. For me, my name worked more and resonated with my audience. Use Abbreviations or Acronyms. Great abbreviated names are BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) and AT&T (American Telephone and Telegraph Company). Use another language. Think about it; if you have your blog name ideas, why not translate them into a different language and use them as your blog name? Example: Chez Vous, Su Casa. Make a Common Saying Your Own. For example, “TheresMoneyinTheList”. What Makes a Good Blog Name? Here are 50 genius blog name examples to get inspiration from: A Concord Carpenter Blog Smart Passive Income Making Sense of Cents Tech Sherpa Poetry Breakfast Learn to Code With Me Nerd Fitness Solo Traveler Copyhackers ProBlogger Seth’s Blog The Music Ninja Techzette The Organized Yogi The Art of Manliness Hike with Ryan Backlinko The Practicing Poet Tech Toolbox Algamus Gambling Recovery Blog Seth’s Blog The Poetry Project Creative Mommy. What is this? Report Ad. Living With Style Writers in the Storm Blogging Wizard iPhone Photography School Outdoor Photography Blog M.M. LaFleur Blog Beardbrand Tech Lovers The Lazy Girl HubSpot Marketing Blog Beardoholic Balding Beards WPbeginner The Blonde Abroad Dan Flying Solo The Write Life Gimme Some Oven Pinch of Yum Bucket List Journey Oh My Veggies Daily Writing Tips Blog Techno Babble. Next Wave of Technology. Tech Savvy. Techno Bloggers Trinity College London Blog StayWell Insights Blog Have any questions? Use the comments section. Thank you for reading!