Introduction
Let me guess — you’re posting regularly on Instagram, sharing flyers, using hashtags, and maybe even boosting a few posts… but your business isn’t growing.
No enquiries. No sales. Just likes from your friends and the occasional “nice product” comment.
Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. Many Nigerian entrepreneurs feel stuck on Instagram. But the problem isn’t that Instagram doesn’t work — it’s that most people are using it wrong.
In this post, I’ll break down the real reasons your business isn’t growing on Instagram and what you can start doing differently today to see results.
1. You’re Only Posting to Sell
This is probably the biggest mistake.
If every single post is “buy now”, “DM to order”, or “we deliver nationwide”, people will scroll past. Social media is not Jiji or Konga — people come to be entertained, inspired, or informed.
Yes, you’re running a business, but social media is a conversation, not a billboard.
What to do instead:
Use the 70/30 rule — 70% of your content should give value (tips, behind-the-scenes, relatable posts), and 30% can promote your offers.
2. Your Page Has No Clear Brand
If someone visits your page and can’t tell what you offer in five seconds, they’ll leave.
Many Nigerian business pages have:
- No bio or unclear bio
- Confusing product images
- No pricing or details
- Random posts that don’t align
What to do instead:
- Write a clean, simple bio (e.g. “Helping Lagos women glow naturally ✨ | DM to order”)
- Use highlights to show prices, testimonials, or FAQs
- Post consistently in a colour/style that reflects your brand
Branding builds trust. And trust brings conversions.
3. You’re Ignoring Video Content
Instagram is now a video-first platform, whether we like it or not.
If you’re only posting static flyers or product photos, you’re missing massive reach potential. Reels, stories and behind-the-scenes videos perform better — especially when they show your face, voice, or process.
People buy from people they can connect with.
What to do instead:
Start small. Record a 15-second video showing:
- How to use your product
- A day in your business
- A client testimonial
You don’t need a ring light or studio — just good lighting and a clear message.
4. You’re Not Using Instagram’s Tools
Instagram rewards accounts that use its features.
If you’re not using:
- Reels
- Stories with polls or questions
- Highlights
- Captions with keywords
… you’re likely not reaching as many people as you could.
What to do instead:
Mix it up. Use stories daily. Add polls. Use reels weekly. Respond to DMs fast. Treat Instagram like a full sales funnel — not just a photo album.
5. You’re Not Talking to the Right Audience
Not everyone on Instagram is your customer — and that’s OK.
If you’re getting likes but no sales, chances are you’re attracting the wrong people. Maybe you’re using trending hashtags with no strategy, or your content is too broad.
What to do instead:
- Define your ideal customer (age, location, pain point)
- Use niche hashtags (e.g. #abujaeventsplanner not just #events)
- Write captions that speak directly to your audience’s problems
The more specific your content, the stronger your connection.
6. You’re Not Tracking What’s Working
Instagram gives you insights for a reason — to help you grow.
If you’re just posting and hoping for the best, you’re marketing in the dark.
What to do instead:
Check your analytics weekly:
- What type of posts get the most saves, shares or replies?
- What time are your followers most active?
- Which posts led to enquiries?
Use that data to adjust your strategy.
7. You’re Not Asking People to Take Action
Sometimes, your content is good — but you’re not telling people what to do next.
You need calls to action (CTAs) like:
- “Click the link in bio”
- “Send us a message to get started”
- “Save this post for later”
Without CTAs, people scroll on, even if they’re interested.
What to do instead:
End every post with a clear next step. Make it easy for your audience to take action.
Conclusion
Instagram is powerful — but only if you use it with purpose.
If your business isn’t growing on Instagram, it’s not because the algorithm is against you. It’s likely because your strategy needs a reset.
Start by shifting your focus:
- Serve first, sell second
- Show up consistently
- Speak to the right people
- Use Instagram’s tools intentionally
And if you need help? That’s where we come in.
At Syntax Technology, we help Nigerian brands grow smarter online — with social media strategies that connect, convert, and build loyal communities.
📩 Need help fixing your Instagram strategy?
Contact us today — let’s turn your page into a business growth tool, not just a digital gallery.