How a Lagos-Based Vendor Doubled Sales Using Online Classifieds Ads
In Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital, small businesses hustle hard to stay ahead.
The city is fast-paced, crowded, and filled with opportunities. But not every vendor knows how to grab attention, especially online.
Only the smart entrepreneurs have this secrets, they are now turning to online platforms like Jiji, Nairapage and Facebook Marketplace to boost sales, get new customers, and grow their business without spending too much.
Classified ads are a game changer and have truly come to stay.
One of such vendors is Chinedu Eze, a 33-year-old electronics dealer based in Computer Village, Ikeja. His story shows how using online classified ads can be a game-changer for small business owners in Lagos.
Meet Chinedu Eze: A Hustler With a Dream
Chinedu started his business in 2019 with a small shop at the corner of Otigba Street in Computer Village. He sold UK-used phones, phone accessories, and power banks. For the first few years, he depended on foot traffic and referrals from customers. While he made some profit, his sales were not consistent.
“Some days, I’d sell 3 or 4 phones,” Chinedu said. “Other days, I won’t even sell anything. It was tough, especially after paying rent and staff.”
In 2022, a friend told him about Jiji.ng, one of Nigeria’s biggest classified ad websites. Chinedu created a free account and uploaded pictures of his phones with short descriptions and prices. At first, nothing happened. But after a few tweaks, things began to change.
How Classified Ads Changed His Business
Chinedu realized that just posting products wasn’t enough. He needs to stand out from other sellers with his listing. He started using better pictures, detailed descriptions, and even posted short videos. He also responded to messages quickly and politely.
“I used to take dark pictures with my old phone, but I borrowed my friend’s iPhone 11 to take clearer shots. That alone helped me attract serious buyers,” he said.
Chinedu listed phones like:
UK-used iPhone XR – ₦165,000
Samsung S10+ – ₦140,000
AirPods Pro – ₦45,000
He added important details like battery health, warranty period, and freebies like free pouch or screen guard.
Within 3 months, Chinedu noticed a big change.
“Before, I was selling maybe 50 phones in a month. Now, I sell over 100. Customers even come from far places like Surulere, Festac, and Ajah just because they saw my ad.”
He even hired one more staff to help him attend to online messages and process deliveries. He now uses GIG Logistics and Kwik Delivery to send products to customers all over Lagos.
What Chinedu Did Right
Chinedu avoided mistakes other vendors did when listing their products online. He began using:
- Clear, Honest Product Listings: He didn’t lie about product conditions. If a phone had a scratch, he said it. Customers trusted him more.
- Good Communication: He replied fast, gave extra information, and was polite. This made buyers feel comfortable.
- Regular Updates: He refreshed his ads weekly. This helped him stay at the top of the search list on Jiji.
- Used Multiple Platforms: Apart from Jiji, he posted on OList, Facebook Marketplace, and even WhatsApp status.
Another Example is Fatima’s Fashion Store
Chinedu isn’t alone. Another Lagos-based business owner, Fatima Bello, runs a small fashion boutique in Yaba. She sells ladies’ dresses, bags, and shoes. Before 2023, her business was slow because she relied only on walk-in customers.
“I paid for Instagram ads but didn’t see much results,” Fatima said. “Then someone told me about Facebook Marketplace.”
She tried it out and got two customers on her first day. Encouraged, she created listings for all her products. Like Chinedu, she used neat photos, short captions, and included her WhatsApp link for direct contact.
Within six months, Fatima’s sales doubled. She began getting orders from Lagos Island, Lekki, and even Ibadan. She added delivery service and started accepting payments online.
“Now, I sell at least 10 dresses every day. Before, I could go two days without a sale,” she said.
Fatima also uses customer feedback to improve. She asks buyers to send photos of how the dress fits and uses those as proof for other customers.
Tips for Lagos Vendors Using Classified Ads
If you’re a Lagos vendor looking to boost your business like Chinedu or Fatima, here are some useful tips:
1) Use Quality Pictures
Avoid blurry or dark photos. Use natural light or a good phone camera, show different angles of your product.
2) Write Clear Descriptions
Include sizes, colors, conditions, and any bonus. Don’t just write “available” tell people what they’re buying.
3) Respond Fast
Online buyers can lose interest fast. Reply messages within minutes if you can.
4) Be Honest
Don’t exaggerate. It’s better to tell the truth and lose one customer than lie and damage your reputation.
5) Update Your Listings Often
Many platforms show the latest ads first. Repost or refresh your ads regularly.
6) Offer Delivery
Work with trusted delivery companies. Make it easy for buyers to get what they want without stress.
7) Ask for Reviews
Happy customers can help you get more sales. Ask them to leave comments or send pictures.
Why Classified Ads Work in Lagos
Lagos has over 20 million people. Many are online, looking for cheap deals. Classified ads allow you to reach these people without paying much.
Sites like Nairapage and jiji are already trusted by Nigerians. When people search for “used iPhone Lagos” or “affordable fashion in Yaba,” they often click these platforms first. If your product shows up there, you’re already one step ahead.
Also, buyers like chatting directly with sellers. Unlike big e-commerce sites where things feel distant, classified ads make the business feel personal.
Final Thoughts
Chinedu and Fatima are just two examples of many Lagos vendors using online classified ads to grow. They didn’t need a fancy website or big capital. Just their phones, good pictures, honest descriptions, and quick replies.
If you sell items such as phones, clothes, shoes, hair, furniture, electronics classified ads can work for you. Start with our free platforms Nairapage.com, we have millions of visitors daily that come to our site to sell and and buy. Also you can place a banner of your products on our website front page to get more exposure.
With consistency and smart posting, you too can double your sales just like Chinedu and Fatima
