The internet revolution has practically provided everyone on earth with a digital address. This implies that humans do not only exist in a physical location but also have an online presence.

So, it’s safe to say that any business, including Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with no digital presence are invisible or nonexistent. In 2025, maintaining an active presence online isn’t limited to bluechip companies, large corportations, tech startups or businesses with a sizeable marketing spend – every Nigerian SME needs it to survive. Thinking of staying archaic and ignoring your potential customers? Think again! Here’s why you can’t neglect it.

1. Your customers are already online

Recent data reveal that mobile internet subscribers rose to 141 million in May while internet usage hit an all-time high of 1,043,431.98 terabytes (TB). Nigerians spend a lot of time online engaging with content, and businesses and corporations are already maximising this; you should not be missing in action. Your customers and potential customers are not restricted to the geographical space you are located but are spread across the world, therefore, the world has become your customer base. People are actually searching for “restuarants near me,” “how to order cake online,” “best solar panel companies,” etc and if they can’t find you, they will find your competitor.

2. Trust and credibility

When people can find your business online they develop a level of trust that you are credible. That’s why it’s important that you have an active presence on social media platforms suitable for you need. It gets even better when customers read reviews and testimonials about your goods, services or products; this builds trust before the first conversation and interaction.

3. Lower Marketing Spend

A digital presence affords you the liberty of being visible and open round the clock. Digital marketing is easier, cheaper and has a higher conversation rate than traditional marketing. It provides you with a wider reach on a cheap budget. With as little as ₦1,000 a day, you can run targeted ads while also automating sales, responses, and customer support.

4. Sales and revenue generation

Businesses with a website or active social media presence can drive traffic to their store, leading to increased sales and revenue generation. Sometimes, businesses sell products in live engaging sessions with customers similar to when someone walks into a physical store.

5. Partnership and Investor Opportunities

Having a digital presence makes you easy to find. This provides avenues for other businesses and brands to engage in partnerships and investment discussions with you.

Going digital isn’t a fad, it’s the new marketplace where customers and businesses interface; if you’re absent, then you are already behind and have a lot of catching up to do.