Hashtags are more than just trendy buzzwords on social media when used correctly, they can help your event reach more people, create online buzz, and keep attendees engaged before, during, and after the event. But in Nigeria, where internet behavior and slang vary across regions and age groups, not every hashtag strategy works.

Let’s break down what works and what doesn’t when it comes to event hashtags in Naija.

What Works

1. Keep it Simple and Easy to Spell

Avoid long or complicated hashtags. Nigerians love short and catchy phrases. Something like #LagosFoodFest is easier to remember and type than #LagosInternationalGastronomicFestival. If it’s too long, people won’t bother using it.

2. Make it Unique

Before you pick a hashtag, search it on Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok. Make sure it’s not already used by another brand or event. You don’t want your audience’s posts getting mixed up with unrelated content. For example, instead of just #MusicFestival, go for something unique like #NaijaGroove2025.

3. Use Local Language or Slang

Adding Nigerian flavor to your hashtags can boost relatability and engagement. Think of hashtags like #OwambeVibes, #NaijaRave, or #EkoLaughs. They immediately tell people this event is for us.

4. Start Early and Promote It Everywhere

Don’t wait till the event day to introduce the hashtag. Add it to your event flyers, ticketing page, email newsletters, and even on stage banners. Encourage guests to use it when posting about the event. Nigerian influencers and attendees love tagging when they know there’s an active conversation happening.

5. Engage With People Using the Hashtag

Retweet, repost, and reply to people who use your event hashtag. It encourages others to join in. During the event, share live updates using the same hashtag — especially for those watching virtually or following on social media.

What Doesn’t Work

1. Forcing a Hashtag Nobody Understands

Avoid hashtags that are too foreign or confusing. If your audience doesn’t understand it, they won’t use it. For example, #ElevateYourExperienceNG might sound fancy, but something like #AbujaHangout may work better for that crowd.

2. Changing the Hashtag Midway

If you start with #TechFest2025, don’t suddenly switch to #TF2025 halfway through. Nigerians who already started using the first one will get confused, and your traction may drop.

3. Ignoring Regional Differences

What works in Lagos might not catch on in Port Harcourt or Kaduna. Understand your primary audience and how they talk online. A street slang-heavy hashtag may not land well at a corporate conference in Abuja.

4. Using Too Many Hashtags

Less is more. Nigerians scroll fast, and cluttered captions with 10 hashtags can look spammy. Stick to 1-3 strong ones.

Conclusion 

In Nigeria, your event hashtag should feel familiar, exciting, and easy to use. Whether you're hosting a concert in Lagos, a wedding in Ibadan, or a business summit in Abuja, the right hashtag can amplify your message and keep your event trending.

Naija Tip: Make your hashtag part of the experience put it on photo booths, backdrops, and merchandise. When people see it everywhere, they’ll want to join the conversation.