Selling out your first event when nobody knows you yet can feel like trying to sell akara in the rain frustrating! But don’t worry, even if you don’t have a fan base or online clout, you can still fill your event and make it a success.

Here’s how Nigerian event planners can pull it off:

1. Start With a Solid Idea That People Actually Want

No matter how fine your flyer is, if the event doesn't solve a real need or interest, people won’t show up. Ask yourself:

Is this a trending topic (e.g. tech, fashion, weddings, business)?

Does it give value (learning, fun, connections)?

Can it appeal to a specific group (students, vendors, creatives)?

Example: Instead of just “Business Conference,” call it “How to Start and Scale Your Side Hustle in Nigeria.”

2. Tap Into Other People’s Audience

Since you don’t have an audience yet, leverage those who do!

Partner with influencers (even micro-influencers with loyal followers).

Bring in speakers or performers with a following.

Use Instagram shout-outs and Twitter tags.

Let their audience become your audience.

3. Pre-Sell Tickets to Validate Interest

Before going all out on booking a venue or vendors, do a soft launch:

Use early-bird tickets or a waitlist to test demand.

Create urgency: “Limited seats available” or “Only 50 slots left.”

Offer discounts for group bookings (Nigerians love awoof deals!).

Platforms like Paystack or Selar can help you collect payments easily.

4. Maximize WhatsApp & Personal Contacts

Forget waiting for the algorithm to favour you WhatsApp is your best friend.

Send personal invites (not broadcast messages) to friends and family.

Ask them to share with their network too “abeg help me repost.”

Use WhatsApp Status consistently to build interest.

Even if you have 100 contacts, that’s a potential 100 attendees.

5. Create Buzz with Social Proof

Nobody likes to be the first person to enter a party. Nigerians like vibes.

Post videos of speaker introductions or venue walk-throughs.

Share testimonials from early ticket buyers or past clients (even if it’s small).

Show behind-the-scenes content to keep people curious.

6. Make the Event Look Like It’s Already a Big Deal

Presentation matters o!

Use clean, eye-catching designs for your flyers and posts.

Talk about your event with confidence like it’s already sold out.

Share fake countdowns? No but be strategic with your messaging.

Even if you’re just starting, make it look and feel like a premium experience.

7. Offer Something Exclusive

Give attendees a reason to buy now:

Free access to a toolkit, template, or eBook.

A chance to pitch their business.

VIP lounge or networking pass.

People in Naija love anything “limited edition” or “members only.”

8. Partner with Vendors or Sponsors

If you can’t carry the financial load alone, bring in small vendors who can benefit too:

Offer them visibility or booths at your event.

Collaborate with businesses looking to reach your type of audience.

Even a barbing salon or a local drink brand can partner with you if it’s a win-win.

9. Use FOMO to Your Advantage

People don’t want to miss what others are enjoying.

Use captions like “We’re almost full!” or “You don’t want to miss this!”

Post photos of people paying or getting their tickets.

Share DMs from people asking questions or confirming attendance.

Let people feel like they need to be part of it.

10. Don’t Be Shy Sell That Event Like Your Life Depends On It!

You’re not disturbing people you’re inviting them to something great. Be proud. Be persistent. Consistency sells. Even if they ignore you the first time, keep showing up. That’s how you build your own audience from zero.

Conclusion

Selling out your first event in Nigeria without an existing audience is tough but not impossible. With smart planning, partnerships, and hustle, you’ll turn that empty hall into a full house. This is how you start building your name in the industry.