Gallery
ProPrivacy Revamp Proposal
Share
Explore

Internationalising ProPrivacy's Content

Project Goals

1. Identify search and buying journey trends in how Nigerians research and purchase VPNs.
2. Use this data to better target Nigerians with more relevant content.
3. Extrapolate this data across other global markets.

Hypothesis

1. Most VPN and cybersecurity content targeting non-Western readers is not relevant to those readers. For example, guides to the best VPNs for Nigeria written by European writers with no experience in the country, writing about VPN use there from an outside perspective.
2. By localizing our non-Western content, ProPrivacy can stand out from the competition, outrank similar websites due to improved EEAT (by hiring or crediting local writers with online profiles), and increase conversions (by writing in a more relatable style).
3. While we’re focusing on Nigeria in this project, a more localized approach to content around the world can be applied to larger VPN markets too.

Current Nigeria Content

Top Results and SERP Features When Connected to a VPN Server in Nigeria

1. International VPN Searches

First thing to note, Nigeria represents a tiny % of the international VPN market. It is well outside the top 44 markets, and not even in the top 5 for Africa.
So, I decided not to spend too much time researching it in the end. However, the results of my research may be applicable to other markets, too.
I also think it’s worth considering other international markets.
India is surprisingly big, and less likely to get disrupted by AI overviews and other changes.
1
664K
12%
2
421K
8%
3
326K
6%
4
304K
5%
5
240K
4%
6
191K
3%
7
185K
3%
8
153K
2%
9
147K
2%
10
127K
2%
11
118K
2%
12
117K
2%
13
109K
2%
14
108K
2%
15
99K
1%
16
74K
1%
17
72K
1%
18
68K
1%
19
61K
1%
20
58K
1%
21
58K
1%
22
57K
1%
23
52K
1%
24
52K
1%
25
51K
0%
26
49K
0%
27
46K
0%
28
45K
0%
29
39K
0%
30
36K
0%
31
35K
0%
32
35K
0%
33
32K
0%
34
2.
30K
0%
35
30K
0%
36
29K
0%
37
26K
0%
38
26K
0%
39
3.
23K
0%
40
4.
22K
0%
41
22K
0%
42
22K
0%
43
21K
0%
44
5.
20K
0%
There are no rows in this table

2. How do Nigerians begin their research VPNs?

1. Recommendations from Friends and Family: Word-of-mouth recommendations play a significant role in Nigeria. People often trust the experiences and opinions of their close circles more than the internet, where results are usually bad.
This includes recommendations from tech-savvy friends, family members, or colleagues who have previously used VPNs.
2. Google Search: They search for terms like "best VPN in Nigeria," "free VPN Nigeria," or "VPN reviews" to discover options and compare features.
3. YouTube: YouTube videos and tutorials are becoming increasingly popular. Nigerians often watch YouTube reviews, comparisons, and how-to guides to learn about different VPNs and their functionality.
4. Social Media: While less common than the first three options, social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook can also be sources of information. Users might come across discussions or recommendations in tech groups or forums, but this is usually a secondary or supplementary source of information.
5. Online Forums: Online forums like Nairaland and Reddit (less common) can sometimes host discussions about VPNs, although this is less common than the other sources mentioned above.
6. Directly Visiting VPN Websites: After gathering initial information, some users might visit the websites of popular VPNs to explore their features, pricing, and customer reviews in more detail.

What factors influence their choice of VPN

1. Price: Affordability is a major concern due to the state of the Nigerian economy and currency. Many Nigerians prioritize budget-friendly options as a result.
2. Value Consciousness: Nigerians are discerning consumers who seek value for their money. They'll compare features and prices across different VPNs to find the best deal.
3. Free Trials and Discounts: Many Nigerians are attracted to VPNs that offer free trials or significant discounts, allowing them to test the service before committing to a subscription.
4. Speed and Performance: Nigerians use VPNs for various activities like streaming, gaming, and browsing, so a VPN that slows down their internet significantly is undesirable. They prioritize VPNs known for maintaining good connection speeds, especially on local servers.
5. Security and Privacy: Online security and privacy concerns are growing in Nigeria. Many Nigerians will seek VPNs with strong encryption, no-logs policies, and additional security features like kill switches.
6. Server Locations: Accessing geo-restricted content (e.g., streaming services, international news sites) is a common motivation for using VPNs. Nigerians often look for VPNs with servers in locations that allow them to bypass these restrictions.
7. Ease of Use: While many Nigerian VPN users are tech-savvy, they value simplicity and ease of use. A frustrating setup process or complex interface can quickly deter them, especially when dealing with something as potentially sensitive as online privacy.
8. Customer Support: Reliable customer support can be a deciding factor, especially if users encounter technical issues or have questions about the service.
9. Local Payment Options: VPNs that offer local payment methods (e.g., bank transfers via fintech apps or accepting virtual bank cards and cryptocurrency) tend to appeal more to Nigerian VPN users.
10. Brand Reputation and Trust: Recommendations from friends, family, or online communities play a significant role. Nigerians often seek advice from others with experience with VPNs, and positive reviews or testimonials can sway their decision.

3. How do they compare different VPNs?

Due to financial constraints, most Nigerians cannot afford to experiment with multiple VPNs through trial and error. Instead, they rely on meticulous research to make informed decisions. Google and YouTube are their primary sources of information, with search queries ranging from "best VPNs for Nigeria" to reviews and comparisons of specific VPNs.
They often delve into detailed articles, blog posts, and video reviews to understand the pros and cons of different VPNs.
Additionally, Nigerians value the opinions and experiences of their friends and peers. Recommendations from trusted sources play a significant role in their decision-making process. They actively seek advice within their social circles and online communities to gauge different VPNs' real-world performance and reliability.

What are their preferred payment methods?

Due to restrictions on international transactions with Nigerian bank cards, alternative payment methods are prevalent:
Virtual Dollar Cards: Nigerian fintech platforms (e.g., Barter by Flutterwave, Chipper Cash, Eversend) offer virtual dollar cards that enable online payments in foreign currencies. These cards are widely used for VPN subscriptions due to their convenience and accessibility.
Domiciliary Account Bank Cards: Some Nigerians maintain domiciliary accounts (holding foreign currencies like USD) with their banks. The debit cards linked to these accounts can be used for international transactions, including VPN subscriptions. However, this is less common due to the difficulty of opening and maintaining such accounts.
Cryptocurrencies: Tech-savvy users, particularly those concerned with privacy, often prefer cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for their anonymity and borderless nature. VPNs that accept crypto payments are attractive to this segment.
Gift Cards: Some Nigerians use gift cards from platforms like Google Play or Apple Store to purchase VPN subscriptions. These gift cards can be bought locally and then redeemed online.

4. Online activities driving Nigerians to use VPNs

1. Cryptocurrency Trading and Airdrops

Binance and Coinbase P2P Ban: The Nigerian government's recent ban on peer-to-peer (P2P) trading on platforms like Binance and Coinbase has pushed many young Nigerians to use VPNs to regain access to their accounts and continue trading.
Airdrop Farming: Airdrops (free distribution of new cryptocurrencies) often have geographic restrictions. Nigerians use VPNs to connect to servers in countries with more favorable airdrop opportunities, maximizing their chances of receiving free tokens.

2. Content Monetization and Access

TikTok Monetization: Due to the lack of a monetization program for African creators on TikTok, many Nigerian TikTokers use VPNs to create accounts registered in countries where they can earn money from their content.
Accessing Geo-Restricted Content: VPNs allow users to bypass regional restrictions on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or gaming platforms, granting access to a wider range of content not available in Nigeria.

3. Privacy and Security Concerns

Bypassing Internet Censorship: VPNs provide a way to circumvent government restrictions or censorship on websites and social media platforms. This is particularly relevant in situations like the Twitter ban in Nigeria in 2021.
Secure Public Wi-Fi: With the increasing use of public Wi-Fi, Nigerians utilize VPNs to encrypt their internet traffic and protect sensitive data from potential hackers on unsecured networks.

4. Online Gaming

Reduced Latency and Lag: VPNs can sometimes improve connection speeds for online gaming by connecting to servers closer to the game servers, resulting in a smoother gaming experience.
Accessing Region-Specific Games: Some games might be exclusive to specific regions. VPNs allow Nigerian gamers to access and play those games.

5. SERP FAQs

The top results scraped from the SERPs in Nigeria.

Which VPN has a Nigerian server?

Is VPN legal in Nigeria?

Yes, VPNs are legal to use in Nigeria.

Which VPN gives free unlimited data in Nigeria?

Does NordVPN work in Nigeria?

NordVPN does not have servers in Nigeria, but it has a large network of servers worldwide that work effectively in the country.

What is the strongest VPN in Nigeria?

ExpressVPN

What is the best VPN to use in Nigeria?

The include ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish, PIA and ProtonVPN.

How much does a VPN cost in Nigeria?

Using the Central Bank of Nigeria's official exchange rate of 11/06/2024 (The exchange rate fluctuates daily; you can get the current rate for the day at ).
ExpressVPN - NGN19,265 for 1 month and NGN9,882.60/month for 12 months.
Surfshark - From NGN22,891.45 for 1 month and NGN4,133.80/month for 12 months.
NordVPN - From NGN19,246 for 1 month and NGN6,800.77/month for 12 months.
CyberGhost - NGN19,246 for 1 month and NGN10,356.73/month for 6 months.
IPVanish - NGN16,283.33 for 1 month and NGN4,133/month for 12 months.

Why use a VPN in Nigeria?

Bypass internet restrictions and government censorship ,
Access geo-restricted content, e.g., US Netflix

Which network is Nigeria using?

Nigeria uses various mobile networks and internet service providers, including MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile, Starlink, Fibre One, IPNX, and DotMac.

Which VPN is the strongest?

ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are often considered among the strongest VPNs in Nigeria due to their robust security features and fast speeds.

What is the best free VPN for Nigerians?

Proton

Does ExpressVPN have a Nigeria server?

No, but they have servers in nearby countries like Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.

Online Forums

Share
 
Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.
Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (
CtrlP
) instead.