Whenever I’m starting a new business, one of the things I quickly do is to setup the new business on Google My Business platform. This is a free marketing platform that puts your business in front on Google Search and Google Map free of charge without spending a dime for marketing

You run an SME or Small Business in Nigeria right? In this guide, I will show you how to get customers for free on Google using Google My Business (GMB), optimize your profile for local SEO, and grow your business in Nigeria.

The good news is that any legit business can be listed on Google My Business. Sweet right?

Come back and read: 6 Key financial skills to grow SMEs in Nigeria

What is Google My Business and why is it Important for small businesses and SMEs in Nigeria?

Google My Business is a free platform that allows business owners to create an online presence and attract local customers. When someone searches for your business or related services, your Google My Business profile appears in search results, showing key details like:


✅ Business name
✅ Address & phone number
✅ Operating hours
✅ Customer reviews
✅ Photos and videos

Example below:

Or something like this

or something like this

Why Small Businesses should be on Google My Business

Step by step on how to setup your business on Google My Business for Free

Follow these steps to create and optimize your Google My Business listing:

1. First, Create Your Google My Business Account

2. Enter Your Business Details

3. Verify Your Business

Google will send a verification code to your business address via your business email or ask you to record a video or via your phone number. Enter the code to confirm ownership.

In my case, I provided my business email and they sent the verification code to it.

4. Optimize Your Google My Business Profile for More Customers

Once your business is verified, it will start showing on Google search just like the examples above. Now it is time to setup for local SEP. Follow these SEO tips to rank higher on Google:

✔️ Add High-Quality Photos and Videos

✔️ Write a Compelling Business Description

Example for a Fashion Store in Lagos:
“At Ibadan Fashion Hub, we provide high-quality Ankara, ready-to-wear, and bespoke fashion for men and women. Visit our store in Ikeja or order online with fast delivery anywhere in Nigeria.”

✔️ List Your Services and Products

✔️ Get Customer Reviews

✔️ Post Regular Updates

How to Rank Higher on Google Using Google My Business

Want to appear at the top of Google search results in Nigeria? Follow these SEO tips:

Use Local Keywords – Include words like best furniture store in Ibadan, cake shop in Surulere, plumber in Lekki
Encourage Reviews – Businesses with more positive reviews rank higher
Update Your Profile Regularly – Add new posts, promotions, and pictures
Respond to Customer Queries Quickly – Engage with users asking for details
Use Google Posts – Promote sales, offers, and new services

Final Thoughts

If you own an SME in Nigeria, setting up Google My Business is a game-changer. It’s free marketing that helps customers find you easily on Google Search and Google Maps.

🔹 Sign up today and start attracting more customers!


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