How to Create a FREE Google Business Profile (Google My Business Profile) in Nigeria (2026)

Imagine someone in Lagos searching “best [your service] near me.” If your business doesn’t come up on Google, you don’t exist to that customer.

That’s exactly what happened to my cousin when he opened his auto repair shop. He had great skills and fair prices, but nobody was finding him online. Once we created his Google Business Profile, calls went up by 60% in just three months.

Here’s something that might surprise you: 4 in 5 consumers use search engines to find local businesses information. That’s 80% of potential customers actively searching for businesses like yours right now!

A Google Business Profile formerly Google My Business (GBP) is your free listing on Google. It’s what shows up when people search for places like “restaurants in Victoria Island” or “salons in Ikeja.” Think of it as your digital storefront that helps customers find you, call you, and visit your business.

This article will teach you everything you’ll need to know about creating a Google Business Profile account and optimizing it so your business can come up top when a potential customer searches for a service you offer.

Benefits of Google Business Profile for Nigerian Businesses

Appear on Google Maps & Local Search

When someone searches “pharmacy near me” in Port Harcourt, Google shows a map with nearby pharmacies. Your business can be there too. This happens automatically once you set up your Google My Business Profile correctly.

Increase Visibility and Credibility

Having a complete Google Business Profile makes your business look professional and trustworthy. Customers can see your hours, photos, reviews, and contact information all in one place.

Attract Customers Searching “Near Me”

Here’s an interesting fact: 42% of people who conduct a local search click on results inside of the Google Maps Pack. That’s nearly half of all local searchers! Your business can be in that pack with a Google Business Profile account optimized for local SEO.

Build Trust with Reviews

Nigerian customers heavily rely on reviews before choosing a business. Your Google Business Profile allows customers to leave reviews, and positive reviews can significantly boost your credibility.

Drive Calls, Messages, and Website Visits

Your profile includes buttons that let customers call you directly, send messages, get directions, or visit your website. It’s like having a sales assistant working 24/7.

What You Need Before Creating a Google Business Profile

A Gmail Account

You need an active Gmail account to manage your business profile. If you don’t have one, create it first. I recommend using a Gmail account specifically for your business rather than your personal one.

Business Name and Category

Choose your exact business name as it appears on your signage or documents. For the category, Google offers suggestions like “Restaurant,” “Hair Salon,” or “Electronics Store.” Pick the most accurate one.

Physical Address (or service area if no office)

If you have a physical location, use that address. If you provide services at customers’ locations (like a plumber or caterer), you can set a service area instead.

Business Phone Number & Website (optional but recommended)

Use a phone number that customers can actually reach you on. A website isn’t required, but it helps customers learn more about your services.

High-Quality Business Photos/Logo

Good photos make a huge difference. Take clear pictures of your storefront, products, team, and interior. Your logo should be crisp and professional-looking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Google Business Profile in Nigeria

Step 1 – Go to Google Business Profile Website

Open your browser and visit business.google.com. This is the official website where you can create and manage a Google Business profile.

Step 2 – Sign in with Your Gmail Account

Click “Start now” and sign in with your Gmail account. Make sure you’re using the Gmail account you want to manage your business with.

Step 3 – Enter Your Business Name and Category

Type your business name exactly as it appears on your storefront or business documents. Then select the category that best describes your business. Be specific – “Nigerian Restaurant” is better than just “Restaurant.”

Step 4 – Add Business Location or Service Area

If customers visit your location, add your complete address including street name, city, and state. If you serve customers at their locations, choose “I deliver goods and services to my customers” and set your service area.

Step 5 – Add Contact Details (Phone, Website, WhatsApp if possible)

Add your business phone number that customers can call during business hours. If you have a website, include it. Many Nigerian businesses also add their WhatsApp number in the additional phone field.

Step 6 – Verify Your Business (Postcard, Phone, or Email)

Google needs to verify you’re really the business owner. They might send a postcard to your address, call your phone, or send an email. In Nigeria, phone verification works fastest when available.

Step 7 – Add Photos, Logo, and Cover Image

Upload high-quality photos of your business. Include your logo as your profile picture and add photos of your storefront, products, and team. Good photos can increase customer calls by up to 30%.

Step 8 – Write a Compelling Business Description

Write a clear description of what your business does and what makes you special. Include important keywords naturally. For example: “We provide professional hair styling, braiding, and beauty services in Lekki with 10 years of experience.”

Step 9 – Add Products, Services, and Working Hours

List your main products or services with descriptions and prices if possible. Set accurate business hours, including different hours for weekends if applicable.

Step 10 – Publish and Optimize Your Profile

Once everything is filled out, publish your profile. But don’t stop there! Regular updates and optimization help you rank higher in local searches.

How to Verify Your Google Business Profile in Nigeria

Common Verification Methods (Postcard, Phone, Email, Video Call)

Google offers several ways to verify your business. Phone verification is usually fastest, but not always available. Postcard verification is common but takes 1-2 weeks. Email and video call verification are newer options for some businesses.

Issues Businesses Face with Postcard Verification

Many Nigerian businesses struggle with postcard verification because of address formatting differences and postal service delays. Sometimes postcards take 3-4 weeks to arrive, or don’t arrive at all.

How to Troubleshoot Verification Problems

If your postcard doesn’t arrive after 2 weeks, you can request another one. Make sure your address is formatted correctly with proper street names and area descriptions that a postman can understand. If phone verification is available, choose that instead.

How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile for Better Rankings

Use Target Keywords in Business Description

Include relevant keywords naturally in your business description. If you’re a mechanic in Lagos, mention “car repair Lagos” or “auto mechanic Victoria Island” in your description.

Add Products and Services with Details

The more complete your profile, the better Google understands your business. Add detailed descriptions of your products and services with prices when possible.

Upload Consistent High-Quality Photos

Post new photos regularly. Show your products, team at work, and happy customers (with permission). Fresh photos signal to Google that your business is active.

Keep NAP (Name, Address, Phone) Consistent Across Directories

Your business Name, Address, and Phone number should be exactly the same across all online directories. Inconsistency confuses Google and hurts your rankings. Consider listing your business in top Nigerian business directories for better visibility.

Collect and Respond to Customer Reviews

Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews. Always respond to reviews, both positive and negative. This shows you care about customer feedback and improves your profile’s engagement.

Post Updates, Offers, and Events Regularly

Use the Posts feature to share updates, special offers, or events. Regular posting keeps your profile active and gives customers more reasons to choose your business.

Use Google’s Messaging Feature

Enable messaging so customers can ask questions directly through your profile. Quick responses to messages can turn inquiries into sales.

Advanced Optimization Tips (Restaurant in Lagos Example)

Running a restaurant in Lagos? A basic Google Business Profile won’t cut it. Here’s how to optimize it for more diners:

1. Add FAQs
Answer common questions like:

• “Do you offer delivery in Lekki?”
• “Is there parking?”

2. Use the Menu Feature
List meals with prices so people can browse dishes directly in Google Search/Maps.

3. Post Photos & Videos
Fresh shots of food, drinks, and your space work best. Short videos of meals being prepared get more clicks than static photos.

4. Highlight Bestsellers
Add top dishes in the “Products” section, e.g.:

• Asun & Small Chops – ₦15,000
• Jollof Rice & Chicken – ₦10,000

5. Collect Reviews
Encourage diners to mention specific meals (“Best suya in Ikeja”). These keywords help you rank for local food searches.

6. Share Offers & Events
Post weekly specials or happy hour updates. Example: “Wednesday – Buy 1 Get 1 Suya from 6–8pm.”

Case Study: How a Car Dealer in Port Harcourt Increased Calls by 70%

In 2024, we worked with a mid-sized car dealership in Port Harcourt. Despite having quality vehicles and fair prices, they weren’t getting calls from serious buyers because they had no online presence.

After setting up and optimizing their Google My Business Profile:

• Their dealership started showing up in searches like “Toyota Camry dealer in Port Harcourt” and “affordable cars near me.”
• Within the first 3 months, customer calls increased by 70%.
• They began receiving direct messages and WhatsApp inquiries from buyers in nearby cities like Aba and Owerri.

Key takeaway: Even for big-ticket purchases like cars, Nigerian customers now begin their search online. If you’re not on Google Maps, you’re losing leads to competitors who are.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up Your Profile

Using Fake Business Names or Locations

Don’t try to game the system with fake information. Google will eventually catch and penalize fake listings. Use your real business information only.

Inconsistent Contact Information

Make sure your phone number, address, and business name are identical everywhere online. Inconsistency confuses customers and search engines.

Ignoring Reviews and Messages

Responding to reviews and messages shows customers you care. Ignoring them makes your business look unprofessional and can hurt your rankings.

Not Updating Business Hours During Holidays

Nigerian customers get frustrated when they travel to a business that’s closed due to outdated hours. Always update your hours for holidays, Ramadan, Christmas, or other closures.

Low-Quality or No Photos

Blurry, dark, or outdated photos make your business look unprofessional. Invest in good photos or hire a photographer. It’s worth the expense.

How Nigerian Businesses Can Leverage Their Google My Business Accounts in 2025

For Local Shops and Restaurants

Local shops and restaurants benefit most from Google Business Profile. Customers often search “food near me” or “shop around me.” A complete profile helps you appear in these searches.

For Service Providers (plumbers, electricians, salons)

Service providers should focus on service area coverage and customer reviews. Highlight emergency services if available, and make sure your phone number is always reachable.

For Corporate and Professional Services (lawyers, doctors, consultants)

Professional services need to emphasize credentials, experience, and specializations in their profiles. Include professional photos and detailed service descriptions.

For Online Businesses Without a Physical Store

Even online businesses can benefit from Google Business Profile by setting up service areas. E-commerce stores serving specific Nigerian cities should definitely create profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I create my own Google Business Profile?

Go to business.google.com, sign in with your Gmail, enter your business name, category, location or service area, and contact details. Add photos, description, and services, then verify your profile.

Who qualifies for a Google Business Profile?

Any business that interacts with customers, either at a physical location (like a restaurant or shop) or by serving customers in a service area (like a plumber, delivery service, or caterer). Purely online-only businesses without a service area don’t qualify.

How do I verify Google My Business in Nigeria?

Verification options in Nigeria include phone, email, video call, or postcard. Phone is usually the fastest when available.

Is Google Business Profile really free in Nigeria?

Yes! Creating and maintaining a Google Business Profile is completely free. You don’t pay Google anything to have your business listed.

What happens if my business changes location?

You can update your address in your Google Business Profile settings. You might need to re-verify your new location depending on how far you moved.

Conclusion

Every Nigerian business needs a Google Business Profile in 2025. It’s free, effective, and connects you directly with customers who are already searching for your services. The process might look long, but the results are worth it.

But don’t forget, simply creating a profile isn’t enough. To dominate local search, you need to optimize it with photos, reviews, keywords, and regular updates. That’s where a local SEO expert can give you an edge.

The bottom line: Create and optimize your profile today, because every day you delay, your competitors are getting those calls. You click this link if you want to get in touch with a Google Business Profile expert.