How to Sell Online Safely in Nigeria: 9 Rules That Prevent Scams

Most online selling scams in Nigeria are not sophisticated — they rely on the seller being in a hurry. Follow these nine rules and you cut your scam risk by more than 90%.

1. Never release goods on the strength of an SMS alert

Fake debit and credit alerts are sold in bulk on Telegram. Always confirm the money in your actual banking app, not a notification. Better still, use an escrow service so you do not have to check at all.

2. Use escrow for anything above ₦20,000

Platforms like SafeTrades hold the buyer's payment until delivery is confirmed. The buyer cannot 'reverse' the transfer and you cannot disappear with the money — both sides are protected.

3. Meet in busy, well-lit public places

Shopping malls, bank entrances, and busy fuel stations have CCTV and witnesses. Never go to a private address alone, especially for phones, laptops or jewellery.

4. Bring a friend for high-value handovers

A second person dramatically reduces robbery risk and gives you a witness if a dispute arises.

5. Screenshot every conversation

If a buyer later claims the item was damaged or different, your chat history is your defence. In-app chat (like the SafeTrades messenger) is stored on the server and admissible in disputes.

6. Photograph the item before handover

Take clear photos of IMEI numbers, serial numbers and any existing scratches, with that day's newspaper or your phone's clock visible. This kills 'you sold me a damaged item' disputes.

7. Verify the buyer's identity for big-ticket items

For cars, generators and items above ₦500,000, ask for a government ID. Sellers on SafeTrades can require buyers to complete KYC before checkout.

8. Never ship before payment is confirmed in escrow

'Send it now, I'll pay on delivery' is the oldest scam in the book. If a buyer refuses to use escrow, walk away.

9. Report suspicious buyers

Use the in-platform report button. Repeat offenders get banned, which protects the next seller.