Planning an event in Nigeria is no small feat from securing the perfect venue, negotiating with vendors, to keeping your guest list in check, the hustle is real. But one area many Nigerian event planners overlook is media coverage. Without it, your event might be spectacular, but few people will know it happened.

The good news? You don’t need millions of naira or a big PR agency to get the press talking. With the right strategy, network, and tools like Shows.ng to organize and promote your event, you can attract attention from the media, bloggers, and influencers all without spending a fortune.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to securing free publicity for your event in Nigeria.

1. Leverage Your Network “Who You Sabi?”

In Nigeria, connections open doors faster than money. Think about people in your circle:

Do you know someone who works in a radio or TV station?

Is your cousin a journalist?

Does your church member run a blog or podcast?

Reach out to them early. Ask for shout-outs, interviews, or event mentions. Most times, people are willing to help if you ask the right way.

Pro Tip: Offer value in return free access to the event, a reserved seat, an exclusive interview with your guest speaker, or a mention in your event program. Mutual benefit builds lasting relationships.

2. Write a Simple but Powerful Press Release

Forget the myth that only PR agencies can write press releases. You can do it yourself:

What: Clearly describe your event.

When & Where: Provide date, time, and location.

Why: Tie it to something relevant youth empowerment, culture, entrepreneurship, or a trending issue.

Who: Highlight any notable guests or performers.

Keep your tone clear and relatable. Then send it to media contacts, bloggers, event pages, and even Shows.ng community spaces.

3. Use Social Media Like a Pro

Social media is your digital megaphone. But instead of just posting your flyer, spice things up:

Create short videos of preparations (“Behind the Scenes”)

Share interviews with performers or speakers

Post about trending topics your event addresses

Use catchy captions and relevant hashtags (#LagosEvents, #NaijaEvents, #ShowsNGEvents)

Tag relevant media pages, influencers, and even local celebrities directly related to your niche.

4. Partner with Micro-Influencers

You don’t always need the biggest stars. Micro-influencers (5,000–50,000 followers) often have more engaged communities. They’re also more affordable sometimes all they want is free access or a small gift.

Invite them as media guests. If they enjoy the experience, they’ll hype your event for free before, during, and after it happens.

5. Network at Other Events

In Nigeria’s event scene, visibility breeds support. Attend other events, especially those similar to yours. Talk to MCs, vloggers, photographers, and content creators. Exchange contacts and offer to collaborate in the future.

When it’s your turn, you’ll already have a supportive network ready to amplify your event.

6. Make Your Event Newsworthy

Ask yourself: “Why would a media outlet care about my event?”

It could be because:

It’s the first of its kind in your area

It features an inspiring personal story

It supports a social cause like education, health, or women empowerment

Craft your story so that media houses see it as content worth publishing, not just an advert.

7. Use WhatsApp Broadcasts and Groups

WhatsApp is underrated but powerful. Prepare a catchy, concise message and attach a high-quality flyer or short video. Share it via:

Personal broadcasts

Alumni and professional networks

Religious or community groups

Event-focused WhatsApp communities

Someone in those groups could be a blogger, presenter, or producer who will help spread the word.

8. Start Early No Last-Minute Rush

Begin creating buzz 2–3 weeks before your event. This gives time for the story to travel, for influencers to post, and for people to plan to attend. Media platforms take you more seriously when you plan ahead instead of rushing last minute. In Nigeria, free media coverage is possible if you know how to work your network, tell your story, and use the right platforms. With Shows.ng, you can organize your event professionally, sell tickets, and showcase it to the right audience making it easier for the media to take notice.

Your event deserves the spotlight. Start building the buzz today.