Tired of relying solely on global travel review sites? Local Nigerian voices are now shaping booking decisions more than ever before.In 2025, the savvy hotelier understands that attracting Nigerian guests (and West African tourists) means paying close attention to hyperlocal reviews. These are reviews found on smaller, more niche platforms specific to Nigeria, such as Facebook groups dedicated to travel within Nigeria, local online forums discussing weekend getaways, and even WhatsApp groups where people share their experiences. Ignoring these spaces is leaving money on the table.
First, actively monitor these platforms. Set up Google Alerts for your hotel name combined with keywords like ‘review,’ ‘experience,’ ‘recommendation,’ and even slang terms for positive feedback (e.g., ‘sweet,’ ‘correct,’ ‘lit’). Assign a staff member to regularly check these spaces and respond promptly to both positive and negative feedback. A quick, personalized response showing you value their opinion can turn a negative review into a loyal customer.
Second, incentivize local reviewers. Offer discounts or small perks (a free drink, a complimentary appetizer) to guests who leave reviews on these hyperlocal platforms. Promote these incentives through in-house signage and staff training. Ensure transparency by stating clearly that you are offering a discount in exchange for an honest review, whether positive or negative. This builds trust and avoids accusations of manipulating reviews.
Finally, leverage influencer marketing strategically. Partner with micro-influencers – local travel bloggers, foodies, or lifestyle enthusiasts with a strong following within your target demographic. Encourage them to experience your hotel and share their genuine thoughts on these local platforms. Authenticity is key. People are more likely to trust a review from someone they perceive as relatable and genuine, not just a celebrity endorsing everything. Consider lesser-known tourist locations for marketing to avoid market saturation such as Idanre Hills in Ondo state, or Kajuru castle in Kaduna. Click the link below to subscribe to our blog for more informative tips and information like these. http://hotelsandplacesng.com/subscribe
