For numerous reasons, a Nigerian business should choose a .ng domain over a .com. When choosing a domain name for your business, you must decide which extension to use. Many Nigerian websites debate between .com and .ng.
The .ng domain enables enterprises to build a strong connection with local audiences by indicating their presence in a specific area. It enhances a website’s relevance and credibility for users in that region. It also enables businesses to differentiate themselves in competitive markets by highlighting their local presence.
While .com is the most popular and widely recognized domain extension, a .ng domain name offers several advantages. This article covers 7 reasons why a .ng domain name is better than a .com for Nigerian businesses.
By the end, you’ll understand why it is important for a business owner in Nigeria to choose a .ng domain over a .com domain.
What is a .com Domain?
.com stands for “commercial” and is a top-level domain (TLD) commonly used for business websites. It was among the first generic TLDs introduced on the internet, alongside .org (for non-profits) and .net (for network-related services). A website with a .com extension typically signifies a commercial entity or site for business purposes.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) introduced the .com domain in early 1985. Its name comes from ‘commercial,’ reflecting its initial purpose for businesses and commercial entities. Over time, “.com” has evolved into one of the most popular and widely recognized domain extensions, used by various websites regardless of their commercial nature.
What is a .ng Domain?
The .ng domain is Nigeria’s country-code top-level domain (ccTLD), overseen by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA). It is widely used by businesses and individuals seeking to strengthen their local online presence. However, more businesses and entrepreneurs in Nigeria realize that a .ng domain can be more innovative and strategic.
A .ng TLD (Top-Level Domain) is preferred if your business is in Nigeria and most of its traffic comes from there. However, what truly matters is the content on your website. Search engines have advanced significantly and can understand your content’s relevance, regardless of the domain extension.
Reasons Why Nigerian Businesses Should Choose a .ng Domain Over .com
Nigerians commonly use the .ng domain to build websites and establish an online presence. It is also a popular choice for government agencies and institutions.
If your business operates in Nigeria and targets a Nigerian audience, it is very important to choose a .ng domain over a .com, which could be an ideal option for the following reasons:
Enhanced Local Trust and Credibility
Country code Top-level domains (ccTLDs) are crucial in building trust with local customers. When a website uses a ccTLD, it signals its connection to a specific region, making it appear more local and trustworthy to users.
Trust and credibility are vital for businesses in today’s competitive market. In Nigeria, where people are increasingly wary of online scams, using a .ng domain can help establish a sense of legitimacy, particularly for e-commerce sites collaborating with local service providers like payment gateways.
Local domain extensions like .ng help build trust by signaling a business’s dedication to the Nigerian market and regional presence. As a result, customers feel that the company understands their needs and is more accountable.
Improved Local SEO Performance
A .ng domain offers a significant local SEO advantage, including the ability to attract a targeted audience from specific regions like Nigeria. Search engines like Google prioritize local content in their search results, so opting for a .ng domain can enhance your website’s ranking in local searches.
Many brands acquire a country’s ccTLD once their business becomes established there because it strengthens their regional presence and improves search rankings.
Websites rank higher in country-specific search results because search engines recognize their relevance to local audiences. Users are likelier to click on domain extensions that feel familiar and relevant to them, leading to higher click-through rates and engagement.
Availability of Domain
Businesses find securing preferred names with a .ng domain easier than a .com domain. However, securing short and memorable domain names has become increasingly difficult as the .com space is now highly saturated.
Since the .ng domain extension is still relatively new, businesses have a greater chance of securing short and memorable domain names that align with their brand.
Unlike .com domains, which are often overcrowded, a .ng domain gives you a better chance of securing your preferred name. More availability means you won’t have to settle for a long or complicated domain. Choosing a .ng domain is wise for businesses aiming to build a strong online presence in Nigeria.
Stronger Engagement with Local Audiences
The .ng domain is specific to Nigeria, giving businesses a strong local identity. Using a .ng domain builds trust with customers, especially those targeting a Nigerian audience, and signals a commitment to serving the local market.
.ng domains help businesses connect more effectively with local audiences, which is crucial for building trust and increasing user engagement.
Cost
Recently, many international registrars have increased the price of .com domain names, combined with the fluctuating exchange rate. As a result, you’ll need to budget more to purchase or renew a .com domain.
Registering a .ng domain is typically more affordable than registering a .com domain. Businesses can save significantly by registering multiple domains for different parts of their business without overspending.
For business owners just starting, the cost of registering a .ng domain can be a budget-friendly option. MokohHost is a trusted domain registrar known for its 24/7 support, reliability, free domain privacy protection (applicable domains), and security features that safeguard your domain from potential cyber threats.
Builds Your Brand Identity
Your domain name defines your brand. Since global domains often become oversaturated, you can choose a .ng domain to be more creative and flexible when selecting a unique name.
Businesses can opt for shorter, more memorable domain names that help them stand out. Customers are more likely to connect with brands that align with their regional values and preferences. Additionally, it signals that your business is focused on the local market and committed to serving it.
A .ng domain can make your business more noticeable in the Nigerian market, helping differentiate your brand and establish a unique identity. It’s easier to remember, increasing customers’ likelihood of returning to your website.
Using a .ng domain strengthens your brand, making it more recognizable and relevant. It also helps position your business as a credible source of information in your industry, as domain names aligned with website content often rank higher in search engine results.
Increased Security and Control
Nigerian users generally view .ng domains as more secure and trustworthy because they are tied explicitly to Nigeria.
The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has consistently emphasized in its seminars and public statements that .ng domains are well-protected and backed by strict regulatory and security measures to prevent fraud and abuse.
Cyber threats target .com domains globally. .ng domains provide an extra layer of security for Nigerian businesses. Local users trust websites with a .ng extension more, reducing concerns about phishing and online scams.
The .ng domain registry enforces strict security protocols to safeguard domain names from theft or fraud. These protocols provide added protection, especially for businesses that handle sensitive customer data, such as payment information.
Choosing a .ng domain enhances security and provides strategic benefits, helping businesses establish credibility and succeed in the Nigerian market.
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Registering a .ng Domain Name on MokohHost
Follow these steps to register your .ng domain on MokohHost:
- Log in or create an account: Visit the MokohHost mPortal and log in. If you don’t have an account, sign up.
- Navigate to Domain Registration: Go to Domains > Domain Registration.
- Search for Your Domain: Enter your desired domain name in the search box and check availability.
- Add to Cart: If the domain is available, click Add to Cart.
- Set Nameservers:
- If you’re hosting your website with MokohHost, keep the default nameservers.
- If you’re using another hosting provider, enter their nameservers in the provided fields.
- If you’re hosting your website with MokohHost, keep the default nameservers.
- Choose a Payment Method Select your preferred payment option and checkout.
- Complete Payment: Once payment is confirmed, your domain will be registered and available on your dashboard for management.
Conclusion
The .ng domain is an excellent option for businesses in Nigeria. It strengthens local identity, enhances visibility in search results, and fosters customer trust. Compared to .com, it’s often more cost-effective and provides greater control over your online presence.
Additionally, these domains offer businesses more growth opportunities both locally and globally. Leveraging a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) like .ng can significantly boost your online presence.
You can register a .ng domain on MokohHost, a trusted domain registrar offering 24/7 support, security, and lots more. Use a .ng domain today to strengthen your business’s connection with its audience and expand its reach.
