Short answer: Create a free Google Business Profile, add your exact address or service area, then verify it, usually with a live video. Once Google approves it, your business shows on Maps and local search.
It’s free to get your business on Google Maps, and it’s one of the highest-return things a Nigerian business can do online. Most people who search “near me” choose from the map results before they ever scroll to a website.
5 steps to get your business on Google Maps
- Search for your business first. Someone may have already created a listing. If it exists, claim it instead of making a duplicate.
- Create your Business Profile. Go to Google Business Profile, sign in with a business Google account, and enter your exact business name. Don’t add keywords to the name; that can get the profile suspended.
- Choose your category and location. Pick the most specific primary category. If customers visit you, add your full address. If you go to them, set a service area and hide the address.
- Add contact details. Phone number, website and opening hours. Use the same details everywhere online.
- Verify. Google decides the method for you, and for most new Nigerian listings that’s a video recording.
How to pass video verification
This is where most listings get stuck. According to Google’s video verification guidelines, the recording must be live, unedited, in one continuous take, and at least 30 seconds long. In it, show:
- Where you are: street signs, building numbers or nearby landmarks that match the map.
- That you operate there: your signage, equipment, stock or branded materials.
- That you’re in charge: unlock the office, open the till, or show something only an owner or manager can access.
A service business without a shop can show branded vehicles, uniforms or tools instead of a storefront. Review usually takes a few business days.
Why verification fails
- The address on the profile doesn’t match what the video shows.
- No visible business name or signage.
- The business name contains extra keywords, like “Best Plumber Lagos”.
- Using a virtual office or a shared co-working address.
Fix the mismatch, then try again from the profile.
After you’re live: get found, not just listed
Being on the map isn’t the same as ranking on it. Add real photos, list your services, post updates, and ask every happy customer for a review. Reply to all reviews, good or bad. Those signals decide whether you show up ahead of competitors. I’ve covered this in more depth in our guide on ranking for near me searches in Nigeria.
If verification keeps failing or you want your profile set up properly from day one, see our SEO service or contact me for help with your Google Business Profile.