In this blog, we will explore the step-by-step process of setting up and running TikTok ads from Nigeria. Learn how to navigate the platform, overcome common payment challenges, and effectively promote your business without the need for foreign accounts.
Switching to a Business Account
To switch to a business account on TikTok, navigate to the settings section of your account. Click on the ‘Accounts’ option and then select ‘Switch to Business Account.’ This process is straightforward, requiring no document submission. You’ll need to choose a category for your business and enter your business email. Once completed, you’re ready to start promoting your business.
Setting Up Your Promotion Goals
After switching to a business account, the next step is to set up your promotion goals. TikTok will prompt you to select a specific goal for your advertisement. This could range from increasing brand awareness to driving traffic to your website. Choose a goal that aligns with your business objectives to ensure that your ad campaign is effective.
Encountering Payment Issues
Payment issues are a common hurdle when running ads on TikTok, especially for users in Nigeria. If your payment is declined, it’s essential to explore alternative payment methods. Initially, you might try using a card linked to your Google Play Store, but if that fails, consider other options. One effective solution is purchasing TikTok coins directly from the platform.
Buying TikTok Coins in Nigeria
To buy TikTok coins, visit the TikTok website and click on your profile picture, then select the ‘Get Coins’ option. This will lead you to a page where you can choose the desired amount of coins. It’s important to note that there is a minimum purchase limit – for example, you may need to buy a minimum of 30 coins. You can also enter a custom amount if you prefer.
Using Virtual USD Cards
For successful payments, it’s crucial to use a virtual USD card. Many users have reported issues with local Nigerian cards, as they are often not accepted by payment processors like Stripe. Virtual USD cards, such as those from Geekay Africa or others, provide a reliable alternative for making payments on TikTok. These cards are specifically designed for international transactions, making them suitable for your advertising needs.
When entering your card details, make sure everything is correct to avoid delays in processing. Once your payment is processed, you can return to the TikTok app to continue setting up your promotion. This step is vital to ensure that your ads run smoothly without any payment-related issues.
Payment Processing with Stripe
Once you have set up your TikTok account and purchased coins, the next step is to process your payment. Stripe is the payment processor used by TikTok, and it is essential to use a virtual USD card for this purpose. Attempting to use local Nigerian cards often results in failed transactions.
When entering your card details, ensure all information is accurate. This includes the card number, expiration date, and CVV. A small error can lead to a declined payment, causing delays in your ad setup.
After submitting your payment, you should see a confirmation. If the payment is successful, you will then be directed back to the TikTok app or website to continue with your ad promotion process.
Setting Up Your Ad Promotion
With your payment processed, it’s time to set up your ad promotion. Open the TikTok app and navigate to the business suite. From there, click on the ‘Promote’ option. You will be presented with various posts that you can choose to promote.
Select the post you want to promote, and it’s crucial to determine your target audience and objectives. TikTok allows you to choose specific demographics, interests, and behaviors to refine your audience. This ensures your ad reaches the right users.
Choosing Your Budget
Next, set your budget for the ad campaign. TikTok has a minimum budget requirement, which is typically around 1,000 Naira per day. If you have insufficient coins, you will need to top up before proceeding.
Top Up Your Coins for Ads
If your current coin balance is insufficient, you can easily top up. Return to the TikTok website or app, and repeat the coin purchasing process. Ensure you buy enough coins to meet the minimum budget requirement for your ad.
Consider purchasing additional coins beyond the minimum needed. This gives you flexibility for future promotions without needing to repeat the payment process frequently. Once your coins are topped up, return to the app to finalize your ad setup.
Finalizing Your Ad Setup
After ensuring you have enough coins, navigate back to the promotion section in the app. Here, you can review your selected post and budget. Make any necessary adjustments to your audience targeting or budget settings before proceeding.
Once everything looks good, click on the ‘Start’ button to submit your ad. You will receive a confirmation that your ad has been submitted for review. TikTok typically reviews ads quickly, so you should see the status change to ‘Approved’ shortly after submission.
Submitting and Approving Your Ad
After submission, it’s essential to monitor the status of your ad. You will receive notifications regarding its approval. If your ad is approved, it will go live according to the budget and schedule you set.
If your ad is not approved, review the feedback provided by TikTok. Common reasons for disapproval include policy violations or inappropriate content. Make the necessary adjustments and resubmit your ad for approval.
Once your ad is live, track its performance through the TikTok analytics dashboard. This will help you understand how well your ad is performing and whether you need to make any adjustments to your strategy.