70% of Lagos Businesses Ignore This Instagram Hack – Here’s How to Fix It
Introduction
Instagram is one of the most powerful marketing platforms in Nigeria, with over 12 million active users—many of them in Lagos. Yet, despite its potential, 70% of Lagos businesses fail to leverage a simple but game-changing hack that could skyrocket their reach and sales.
If you’ve been struggling with:
✔ Low engagement despite posting regularly
✔ Few followers despite running ads
✔ Slow sales even with great products
…then this guide is for you. We’ll reveal the underused Instagram hack that top Nigerian brands use to dominate—plus a step-by-step plan to implement it.
Why Most Lagos Businesses Fail on Instagram
Before revealing the hack, let’s understand why so many businesses miss out:
1. They Only Focus on Posts (Not Stories or Reels)
Many Lagos businesses treat Instagram like a photo album—posting products but ignoring Stories, Reels, and Live videos, which get 3x more engagement.
2. They Don’t Use Hashtags Strategically
Using generic hashtags like #lagosbusiness won’t cut it. The right mix of niche, location-based, and trending hashtags is crucial.
3. They Ignore Instagram SEO
Google isn’t the only search engine. Instagram’s search bar is where customers look for businesses. Optimizing your profile for keywords (e.g., Best Digital Agency in Lagos“) is a must.
4. They Post Without a Schedule
Random posting leads to inconsistent reach. The best times to post in Lagos are 7-9 AM and 7-9 PM (when users are most active).
The Instagram Hack 70% of Lagos Businesses Miss
The secret? Leveraging Instagram’s “Hidden Engagement” features—specifically, Guide Posts and Collaborative Posts.
Why This Works
- Guides let you curate content (like a mini-blog) that stays visible forever—unlike Stories that disappear.
- Collaborative Posts allow customers to tag you, expanding your reach for free.
Most businesses don’t use these because:
❌ They don’t know they exist
❌ They think it’s too complicated
Step-by-Step: How to Use This Hack
Step 1: Create an Instagram Guide
- Go to your profile → tap the + icon → select Guide
- Choose a format:
- Places (for location-based businesses)
- Products (for e-commerce)
- Posts (for tips/tutorials)
- Add your best posts—this keeps them permanently discoverable.
Example: A Lagos Digital Agency could create a “How to reach large audience in your next Ads Campaign” Guide.
Step 2: Use Collaborative Posts
- Create a post and tag another business (or influencer).
- They can share it to their followers, doubling your exposure.
Example: A fashion brand collaborates with a Lagos stylist for a “Best Outfits for Owambe” post.
Bonus: 3 More Underused Instagram Growth Tactics
1. Keyword-Optimize Your Bio
– Use phrases like “Best [Your Industry] in Lagos” so you appear in searches.
2. Reply to DMs with Voice Notes*
– People trust voices more than text—increase response rates by 40%.
3. Run a “Tag a Friend” Contest
– Example: “Tag 3 friends who need a spa day—win a free massage!”
Related Post:
- 9 Powerful Ways Nigerian B2B Brands Can Use Instagram to Grow Visibility
- How to Use Instagram Stories for B2B Marketing
- How to Know If Your Instagram Post Is Going Viral or Just Getting Good Engagement
- Why Your Instagram Page Isn’t Getting Clients—And What Nigerian Entrepreneurs Can Do About It
- How to Choose the Right Social Media Manager for Your Brand
- Video Content or Graphics — Which One Drives More Traffic?
Conclusion: Stop Missing Out!
If you’re not using Instagram Guides and Collaborations, you’re leaving money on the table. Start today:
- Create your first Guide (even with existing posts).
- Collaborate with a complementary business.
- Track results—compare engagement before/after.
Need help? Get in touch with us now to see how we can grow your Lagos business on Instagram!
Image source: Instagram-Hack-Digital-Dare-Phillips
