Your safety is our top priority. Learn how to buy and sell securely across Nigeria with these essential safety guidelines.
Follow these fundamental guidelines to ensure every transaction is safe and successful
Always meet buyers/sellers in busy, public locations during daylight hours. Avoid private residences or isolated areas.
Accept only cash payments in person. Avoid wire transfers, checks, or online payments from unknown parties.
Thoroughly examine items before making payment. Test electronics, check vehicle documents, verify property papers.
If something feels wrong, walk away. Don't ignore red flags like pressure to buy immediately or too-good-to-be-true prices.
Tell friends or family where you're going, who you're meeting, and when you expect to return. Share location details.
For vehicles and property, always verify ownership documents. Check IDs and ensure they match the seller's identity.
Protect yourself by recognizing these common Nigerian marketplace scams
Buyer sends more money than agreed and asks you to refund the difference. The original payment is usually fake.
⚠️ Never accept overpayment or provide refunds to strangers
Scammer shows fake bank alerts or payment confirmations on their phone to trick you into releasing items.
⚠️ Verify payments in your own account before releasing items
Buyer asks for upfront payments for "shipping," "insurance," or "clearance fees" before completing purchase.
⚠️ Never send money to receive money
Brand new expensive items (cars, phones, etc.) offered at suspiciously low prices are usually scams or stolen goods.
⚠️ If the price is too good to be true, it probably is
Choose busy, public places with good security and plenty of witnesses
Well-lit, secure with CCTV cameras and security guards
Busy public spaces with good security and parking
Ultimate safety - many have designated exchange zones
Professional environments with security and witnesses
Private Homes
Dark/Isolated Areas
Inside Vehicles
Remote Locations
199
24/7 Emergency Response
safety@naijamarketplace.com.ng
Report suspicious activities
0809 952 2437
Report fraud & scams
