The Day I Graduated Broke and Jobless in Nigeria (What Happened Next Will Shock You) - Daily Reality NG 🎓 The Day I Graduated Broke and Jobless (And What Happened Next) 📅 December 11, 2025 ✍️ Samson Ese ⏱️ 18 min read 📁 Personal Growth 👋 Welcome to Daily Reality NG Real Stories • Real Money • Real Nigeria Welcome back to Daily Reality NG, where we talk about the things that actually matter to everyday Nigerians. Today's story is personal. Very personal. It's about the day I graduated from university with noth...
Get Google AdSense Approved in Nigeria (7 Days) | 2026
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Get Google AdSense Approved in Nigeria (7 Days) | 2026
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How to Get Approved for Google AdSense in Nigeria in Less Than 7 Days in 2026
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✍️Samson Ese
⏱️12 min read
Make Money Online
Welcome to Daily Reality NG, where we break down real-life issues with honesty and clarity.
I'm Samson Ese, founder of Daily Reality NG. I've been blogging and building online businesses in Nigeria since 2016, helped over 4,000 readers start making money online, and my sites currently serve 800,000+ monthly visitors across Africa.
Three years ago, my friend Tunde sat in his one-room apartment in Surulere, staring at his laptop screen with tears in his eyes. He'd just received his fifth Google AdSense rejection email in two months.
"Samson, I don't understand," he said when he called me that evening. "I did everything the YouTube videos said. I bought a domain, I wrote 20 articles, I waited three months. What am I doing wrong?"
I drove to his place that same night. When I opened his blog, I understood immediately why Google kept rejecting him. His articles were barely 300 words each, copied from Wikipedia and poorly rewritten. His About page was empty. He had no Privacy Policy. His contact form didn't work. And he'd applied with only 15 blog visitors in the past month.
Truth be told, Tunde wasn't doing anything differently from thousands of Nigerian bloggers who get rejected every single day. He was following outdated advice, copying what worked in 2018, and hoping Google wouldn't notice.
But here's what nobody tells you: Google AdSense approval in 2026 isn't about luck, timing, or knowing someone at Google. It's about understanding exactly what Google's algorithm checks when they review your site, and giving them precisely what they're looking for.
Let me be honest with you. I've helped 47 Nigerian bloggers get AdSense approval in the past 18 months. The fastest approval came in 4 days. The slowest took 9 days. Every single one of them followed the exact system I'm about to share with you in this guide.
This isn't theory. This isn't motivational talk. This is the real process that works right now, in Nigeria, with our internet challenges, our payment issues, and our unique content landscape.
Many Nigerians know this struggle. You've probably spent months writing articles, watching your site sit empty with no ads, wondering when your breakthrough will come. You've seen other bloggers making money and asked yourself what they know that you don't.
Want to know the truth? They're not smarter than you. They just followed the right steps in the right order. And that's exactly what you're about to learn.
Getting Google AdSense approval opens doors to passive income for Nigerian bloggers - Photo from Unsplash
Understanding Google AdSense in Nigeria
Before we jump into the practical steps, you need to understand what Google AdSense actually is and why it's become the primary income source for thousands of Nigerian content creators.
Google AdSense is a program that allows website owners to display targeted advertisements on their sites and earn money when visitors click on or view these ads. For Nigerian bloggers, it represents one of the most reliable ways to monetize content without selling physical products or running complex e-commerce operations.
Real Talk: Why Nigerian Bloggers Love AdSense
I used to think AdSense was just about putting ads on your site and collecting dollars. I was wrong. AdSense is actually about building a real business that Google trusts enough to advertise on. When I understood this difference, everything changed.
The bloggers making ₦200,000 to ₦800,000 monthly from AdSense aren't just lucky. They've built websites that Google's algorithm recognizes as valuable, trustworthy, and worth showing premium ads on. That's the real game.
According to recent data from Nigerian blogging communities, approved AdSense publishers in Nigeria earn between $50 to $1,500 monthly, depending on their traffic and niche. That's ₦50,000 to ₦1.5 million at current exchange rates.
But here's what most beginners don't realize: Google doesn't approve everyone who applies. Their acceptance rate in Nigeria is estimated to be around 20-30 percent on first applications. The rest get rejected for reasons they don't understand and often repeat the same mistakes when reapplying.
Why Google Rejects Nigerian Applications
Google isn't rejecting Nigerian bloggers because of their location. They're rejecting them because most applications don't meet Google's quality standards. Let me break down the real reasons:
Insufficient content: Applying with fewer than 20 high-quality articles
Copied content: Articles rewritten from other sources without adding unique value
Missing essential pages: No Privacy Policy, About page, or Contact information
Low-quality design: Template blogs that look abandoned or unprofessional
Policy violations: Content about gambling, adult topics, or copyright infringement
Fake traffic: Using bots or traffic exchange sites to inflate visitor numbers
Technical issues: Slow loading times, broken links, or poor mobile experience
If we talk am well, most rejections happen because bloggers rush the process. They hear someone got approved in two weeks and think they can do it faster. But speed isn't the goal here. Meeting Google's standards is.
Understanding your site metrics is crucial for AdSense success - Photo from Unsplash
The Real Requirements Google Checks
Let me share something most AdSense guides won't tell you. Google doesn't publish an official checklist of exactly what gets you approved. Instead, they have automated systems and human reviewers who evaluate your site based on multiple factors.
After helping dozens of Nigerian bloggers through this process, I've reverse-engineered the actual requirements that matter. This isn't speculation. This is what worked for real people who got approved.
Content Requirements
Minimum 25-30 Original Articles: Your blog needs substantial content before applying. Each article should be at least 1,000 words (1,500+ is better) and provide genuine value to readers. These aren't blog posts copied from Wikipedia or rewritten from other sites. They're original perspectives, experiences, and information.
When I review blogs for approval readiness, the content is always the weakest link. Nigerian bloggers often publish 15 short articles and think they're ready. But Google's algorithm can detect thin content. They want to see depth, expertise, and consistency.
Real Example: How Blessing Got Approved in 5 Days
Blessing runs a food blog focused on Nigerian recipes. When she came to me, she had 18 articles averaging 400 words each. We didn't delete anything. We just expanded each article to 1,200+ words by adding:
Personal stories about learning each recipe from her grandmother
Detailed step-by-step instructions with measurements
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Variations for people with dietary restrictions
Her own photos of the cooking process
She added 10 more articles in the same format, applied on a Monday, and got approved that Friday. The difference wasn't magic. It was meeting Google's actual standards for helpful content.
Technical Requirements
Custom Domain: You absolutely need a custom domain (yoursite.com, not yoursite.blogspot.com). This costs about ₦2,000-₦5,000 annually from Nigerian registrars like Whogohost or Qservers. Google sees custom domains as a signal that you're serious about your website.
Essential Pages: These four pages are non-negotiable:
About Page: A detailed page explaining who you are, why you created the blog, and what readers can expect. Include a real photo and your actual story. Google's reviewers read this page.
Contact Page: A working contact form or email address. Google needs to know you're reachable. I recommend using a professional email with your domain name (info@yoursite.com).
Privacy Policy: This is legally required for AdSense. You can generate one free using privacy policy generators, but make sure it's customized for your site and mentions Google AdSense.
Terms of Service/Disclaimer: Protects you legally and shows Google you're running a legitimate operation.
Professional Design: Your site doesn't need to be fancy, but it needs to be clean, organized, and easy to navigate. Use a responsive theme that works on mobile devices. Make sure your logo, colors, and layout look intentional, not accidental.
Traffic Requirements (The Truth)
Here's where most Nigerian bloggers get confused. Google's official policy doesn't specify a minimum traffic requirement for AdSense approval. But practically speaking, having some genuine traffic helps your case.
You don't need 10,000 visitors per month. I've seen Nigerian blogs get approved with just 200-500 visitors monthly, as long as the traffic was real and engaged. What matters more is where the traffic comes from.
Warning: Never Buy Fake Traffic
Some Nigerian bloggers use traffic exchange sites, bots, or paid traffic services to inflate their numbers before applying. This is the fastest way to get permanently banned from AdSense. Google's system can detect fake traffic patterns, and they take fraud seriously.
If you have zero traffic when applying, focus on getting organic visitors through social media, email marketing to friends and family, or Nigerian Facebook groups related to your niche. Even 50 real visitors is better than 5,000 bot visits.
Age and Activity Requirements
Domain Age: Your domain should be at least 7-14 days old before applying. Brand new domains registered yesterday raise red flags. Google wants to see that you're committed to the site, not just testing waters.
Posting Consistency: Your articles should have varied publication dates, not all posted on the same day. If Google sees 25 articles all published on January 15th, they know you rushed the process. Spread your content over at least 2-3 weeks to show genuine blogging activity.
Active Maintenance: Update your site regularly. Add new articles, respond to comments (if you have any), fix broken links. Google's algorithm checks for signs of an active, maintained website versus an abandoned project.
Strategic content planning is key to AdSense approval - Photo from Unsplash
7-Day Approval Blueprint
Now let's get practical. This is the exact 7-day system I give to Nigerian bloggers who want fast AdSense approval. Before you start, make sure you already have a blog with at least 15-20 articles. This blueprint is about preparing for application and getting approved quickly, not building your blog from scratch.
Day 1: Content Audit and Quality Check
Morning Tasks:
Review every article on your blog. Is each one at least 1,000 words? If not, expand them with personal experiences, additional details, and practical examples.
Check for grammar and spelling errors. Use free tools like Grammarly or LanguageTool to clean up your writing.
Ensure each article has a clear structure: introduction, main points with subheadings, and conclusion.
Add relevant images to articles that don't have them. Use free stock photos from Unsplash or Pexels (always give credit in your image captions).
Afternoon Tasks:
Check for duplicate content. Copy random paragraphs from your articles and Google them in quotes. If you find exact matches on other sites, rewrite those sections completely.
Remove any content that violates Google's policies: no adult content, violence, illegal activities, copyright infringement, or misleading information.
Verify all your links work. Click every internal and external link on your site and fix any broken ones.
Real Talk: The Content Quality Test
Read your articles out loud. If they sound robotic, repetitive, or like they were written just to fill space, Google's algorithm will detect that. Your content should sound like you're explaining something to a friend. Natural, clear, and genuinely helpful.
I learned this the hard way. My first blog got rejected three times before I realized my articles were just keyword-stuffed paragraphs with no real value. When I started writing like I was teaching my younger brother, everything changed.
Day 2: Essential Pages Setup
Create Your About Page:
Write 500-800 words explaining who you are, why you started the blog, what topics you cover, and what makes your perspective unique. Include a real photo of yourself. Be authentic. Google's human reviewers actually read About pages.
Example structure: Start with your name and a brief personal intro. Explain your background or expertise in your blog's niche. Share your mission for the blog. End with an invitation for readers to connect with you.
Set Up Your Contact Page:
If your blogging platform has a built-in contact form, enable it. If not, create a simple page with your professional email address. Test the contact form by sending yourself a test message to make sure it works.
Generate Privacy Policy and Terms:
Use free privacy policy generators specifically designed for AdSense publishers. Make sure your privacy policy mentions that you use Google AdSense and Google Analytics (if applicable). Customize the template with your blog name, contact email, and the date.
Add Disclaimer/Terms of Service:
Create a simple disclaimer explaining that the information on your site is for general informational purposes, you're not liable for actions readers take based on your content, and your site may contain affiliate links or ads.
Day 3: Navigation and User Experience
Morning: Site Structure Optimization
Create clear categories for your blog posts. Organize articles into 3-5 main categories that make sense for your niche.
Add all essential pages to your main navigation menu (About, Contact, Privacy Policy).
Create a footer menu with links to all your legal pages.
Ensure your homepage clearly shows recent blog posts and makes it obvious what your site is about.
Afternoon: Mobile Optimization Check
Open your site on your phone. Does it load properly? Are images sized correctly? Can you easily tap links without accidentally hitting the wrong one?
Use Google's Mobile-Friendly Test tool to check your site. Fix any issues it identifies.
Test your site speed using Google PageSpeed Insights. If your load time is over 3-4 seconds, compress your images and remove unnecessary plugins or scripts.
Day 4: Traffic and Engagement Setup
Social Media Preparation:
You need some genuine traffic before applying. Here's how to get it ethically:
Share your best 5-7 articles in relevant Nigerian Facebook groups (not spam groups, but genuine communities interested in your topic).
Post links to your articles on your personal WhatsApp status with a brief description of what the article is about.
If you're on Twitter/X or Instagram, share snippets from your articles with links back to your blog.
Email your friends, family, and contacts asking them to check out your new blog. Be genuine about it. Ask for honest feedback.
Google Analytics Setup:
Install Google Analytics on your blog. This isn't required for AdSense approval, but it helps you track your traffic and shows Google that you're serious about understanding your audience. Google Search Console is also recommended.
Real Example: Getting Your First 100 Visitors
When I started my first blog, I was embarrassed to share it. I thought I needed thousands of visitors before anyone would take me seriously. But then I shared one article in a Nigerian entrepreneurship Facebook group, and 43 people visited my site that day. Three of them left comments saying the article helped them.
That's all Google needs to see. Real people reading your content because it's helpful. Not bots, not paid traffic, just genuine interest.
Day 5: Final Technical Checks
Pre-Application Checklist:
Verify your blog has 25+ articles of 1,000+ words each
Confirm all articles are original (no copied content)
Check that About, Contact, Privacy Policy, and Terms pages are live and linked in your navigation
Ensure your custom domain is working (not a free subdomain)
Verify your site loads properly on mobile devices
Confirm you have at least 50-100 real visitors in the past week
Check that comments (if enabled) don't contain spam
Make sure your content follows Google's AdSense policies (no prohibited content)
Site Polish:
Go through your entire site as if you were a first-time visitor. Does it look professional? Is it easy to find information? Are there any embarrassing typos or broken elements? Fix anything that doesn't meet your quality standards.
Day 6: Application Day
Creating Your AdSense Account:
Go to google.com/adsense and sign up with the Gmail account you want to use for your AdSense business. Use a professional email, not something like "cutieboy2000@gmail.com". If possible, create a new Gmail specifically for your blogging business.
Application Process:
Enter your website URL exactly as it appears (including https:// if your site uses SSL)
Select Nigeria as your country
Carefully read and accept AdSense terms and conditions
Enter your accurate personal information: full name exactly as it appears on your bank documents or national ID
Provide your correct address. Google will mail you a verification PIN later, so this must be an address where you can receive mail
Add your Nigerian phone number in the correct format (+234...)
Critical: Payment Information
When entering your payment details, use your real name exactly as it appears on your bank account. Any mismatch between your AdSense name and your bank account name will cause payment issues later. Google sends payments via wire transfer to Nigerian banks, and the names must match perfectly.
Do not use someone else's account. Do not use a business name if you registered as an individual. This is where many Nigerian bloggers create problems that take months to fix.
Adding AdSense Code to Your Site:
After submitting your application, Google will provide you with a code snippet to add to your website. This code goes in the <head> section of your site. Most blogging platforms have a specific place to add header code. On Blogger, it's in Theme > Edit HTML. On WordPress, you can use a plugin like Insert Headers and Footers.
Copy the code exactly as Google provides it. Don't modify it. Save your changes and verify the code is on your site by viewing your page source (right-click on your site and select "View Page Source", then search for "google_ad_client").
Day 7: Monitoring and Patience
What Happens Now:
Google typically reviews applications within 24-48 hours, though it can take up to 2 weeks. During this time, continue normal blogging activities. Publish new articles, respond to comments, share content on social media. Don't just sit and wait anxiously.
Checking Your Application Status:
Log into your AdSense account to see your application status. You'll see one of these messages:
"Getting ready" - Google is still reviewing your site
"Approved" - Congratulations! You can start showing ads
"Needs attention" - There's an issue you need to fix
"Disapproved" - Your application was rejected (Google will explain why)
Real Talk: The Waiting Game
I know how stressful this part is. You'll check your email every hour, refresh your AdSense dashboard constantly, and wonder if you did something wrong. But checking more often doesn't speed up the process. Google's system will notify you via email when they've made a decision.
Use this waiting period productively. Write your next article. Engage with your audience. Build momentum so that when approval comes, you're already moving forward.
Consistent content creation is the foundation of AdSense success - Photo from Unsplash
Content Strategy That Works
Let's talk about the content part more deeply, because this is where most Nigerian bloggers struggle. You can have perfect technical setup, but if your content doesn't meet Google's quality standards, you won't get approved.
Writing Articles Google Loves
The E-E-A-T Principle:
Google evaluates content based on Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. In simple terms, they want to see that you actually know what you're writing about and you're not just copying information from other sources.
For Nigerian bloggers, this means writing from your actual experience. If you're blogging about starting a business in Nigeria, share your real experiences. If you're writing about cooking Nigerian food, include stories from your own kitchen. If you're covering tech topics, explain concepts in ways that show you genuinely understand them.
Article Structure That Works:
Engaging Introduction (150-250 words): Start with a story, question, or surprising fact that hooks readers. Explain what the article covers and why it matters to them.
Personal Connection (50-100 words): Share a brief personal anecdote that connects you to the topic. This shows Google you have real experience.
Main Content (700-1,200 words): Break into clear sections with H2 and H3 subheadings. Use short paragraphs (2-4 sentences max). Include practical examples and actionable advice.
Visual Elements: Add at least one image (with proper alt text), and consider using bullet points, numbered lists, or highlighted boxes for key information.
Strong Conclusion (100-150 words): Summarize main points and include a call-to-action (ask a question, invite comments, or suggest related articles).
Best Niches for Nigerian AdSense Bloggers
Some niches get higher AdSense earnings than others. Based on what I've seen work for Nigerian bloggers, here are niches with good earning potential:
Personal Finance and Money-Making: High competition but excellent CPC (cost per click). Topics like saving money, investing, side hustles.
Technology and Mobile Phones: Good traffic potential in Nigeria with decent CPC, especially for phone reviews and tech how-tos.
Education and Career: JAMB, WAEC, university admission, scholarship guides. Consistent traffic with moderate CPC.
Health and Lifestyle: Wellness, fitness, nutrition. Good engagement and growing CPC in Nigeria.
Entertainment and Celebrity News: High traffic potential but lower CPC. Works best with very high traffic volumes.
Agriculture and Farming: Growing niche in Nigeria with engaged audience and improving CPC.
Whatever niche you choose, make sure you're genuinely interested in it. You'll need to consistently create content for months or years, so pick something you can sustain.
Content Calendar Approach
Here's a realistic content schedule for new Nigerian bloggers:
Weeks 1-2: Publish 3-4 articles per week (aim for 10 articles total). Focus on foundational topics in your niche.
Weeks 3-4: Publish 3 articles per week (6 more articles). Start diversifying topics within your niche.
Week 5: Publish 2-3 articles. Focus on quality over quantity. This brings you to 25+ articles.
Week 6: Review and improve existing articles. Apply for AdSense.
This gives you about 6 weeks from blog creation to AdSense application, with enough high-quality content to meet Google's standards.
Real Example: The Power of Consistent Publishing
My student Chioma blogs about natural hair care for Nigerian women. She committed to publishing every Tuesday and Friday, no excuses. In 5 weeks, she had 28 detailed articles (1,200+ words each) with her own photos and step-by-step tutorials.
When she applied for AdSense, Google approved her in 3 days. Why? Because her site showed clear expertise, consistent publishing, and genuine value to readers. She wasn't trying to game the system. She was building a real resource for Nigerian women with natural hair.
Technical Setup Checklist
Let's cover the technical requirements in detail. You don't need to be a tech expert, but you do need to get these basics right.
Domain and Hosting
Choosing Your Domain Name:
Your domain name should be memorable, relevant to your niche, and professional. Avoid numbers, hyphens, or complicated spellings. Keep it short if possible (under 15 characters is ideal).
For Nigerian bloggers, I recommend buying domains from local registrars like Whogohost, Qservers, or Web4Africa. They accept Nigerian payment methods and provide local customer support. A .com domain costs around ₦2,000-₦5,000 per year, while .com.ng domains are slightly cheaper.
Hosting Platform:
If you're starting with zero budget, Blogger (Blogspot) is acceptable. Google owns Blogger, so there's no bias against it for AdSense approval. However, you still need a custom domain pointing to your Blogger blog.
If you can afford hosting (₦15,000-₦30,000 annually for basic shared hosting), WordPress.org on your own hosting gives you more control and looks more professional. But it's not required for AdSense approval.
SSL Certificate (HTTPS)
Your site should use HTTPS instead of HTTP. This shows up as a padlock icon in the browser address bar. Most hosting providers now offer free SSL certificates. If you're on Blogger, you can enable HTTPS in your settings.
Google prioritizes secure sites, and having HTTPS helps with AdSense approval. It's a trust signal that you take your website seriously.
Site Speed Optimization
Your blog should load in under 3 seconds on mobile devices. Here's how to ensure good loading speed:
Compress images: Use tools like TinyPNG or Compressor.io to reduce image file sizes before uploading. Aim for images under 200KB each.
Choose a fast theme: Use lightweight, responsive themes designed for speed. Avoid themes with excessive animations or features you don't need.
Minimize plugins: If you're on WordPress, only install essential plugins. Every plugin slows down your site.
Enable caching: Use caching plugins (on WordPress) or enable Blogger's built-in speed optimizations.
Mobile Responsiveness
More than 80 percent of Nigerian internet users access websites via mobile phones. Your blog must work perfectly on small screens. Test your site on your phone regularly and fix any issues:
Text should be readable without zooming
Buttons and links should be easy to tap
Images should resize to fit mobile screens
Navigation menu should work on mobile (usually converts to a hamburger menu)
Use Google's Mobile-Friendly Test tool to check your site and get specific recommendations for improvement.
Common Technical Mistakes
Don't make these technical errors that cause AdSense rejection:
Applying with a free subdomain (blogname.blogspot.com instead of yoursite.com)
Having multiple broken links throughout your site
Using a template that looks obviously unprofessional or incomplete
Having images that don't load or display incorrectly
Site navigation that doesn't work or is confusing
Pop-ups or intrusive ads from other ad networks before AdSense approval
Success with AdSense requires strategic planning and execution - Photo from Unsplash
The Application Process
Now let's walk through the actual application process step by step, with specific guidance for Nigerian bloggers.
Before You Click "Apply"
Do this final check before submitting your application:
Visit your blog as a new visitor would. Read through 3-4 articles. Are they genuinely helpful? Would you share them with friends?
Check your About page. Does it clearly explain who you are and why you're qualified to write about your niche?
Verify your Contact page is working by sending yourself a test message
Confirm your Privacy Policy mentions Google AdSense and is dated recently
Look at your Google Analytics. Do you have at least 50 real visitors in the past 7 days? (If not, wait a few more days while promoting your content)
Filling Out the Application
Personal Information:
Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your bank account or government-issued ID. Middle names matter. If your bank account says "Oluwaseun Adebayo Johnson," enter it exactly that way, not as "Seun Johnson."
For your address, use a real, complete Nigerian address where you can receive mail. Google will eventually mail you a PIN verification letter to this address. Many Nigerian bloggers use their family home address or office address. Avoid PO Box numbers if possible, as mail delivery can be unreliable.
Phone Number:
Enter your Nigerian mobile number in international format: +234XXXXXXXXXX (remove the first 0 from your number). Make sure this number is active and you have access to it. Google may use it for verification or security purposes.
Website Details:
Enter your site URL exactly as it appears in the browser, including the www if your site uses it. If your site is https://www.yourblog.com, enter it that way. If it's https://yourblog.com (without www), enter it without www.
After Submitting
Email Confirmation:
You'll immediately receive an email from Google confirming they received your application. This email includes your AdSense code that you need to add to your website. Follow the instructions carefully.
Adding the AdSense Code:
The code Google provides must be placed in the <head> section of your website. Here's how:
For Blogger users:
Go to Theme > Edit HTML
Find the <head> tag near the top of the code
Paste the AdSense code right after the <head> tag
Click "Save theme"
For WordPress users:
Install a plugin like "Insert Headers and Footers" or "WPCode"
Paste the AdSense code in the header section
Save your changes
Verifying the Code:
After adding the code, visit your website and check that it's there:
Right-click anywhere on your site and select "View Page Source"
Press Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on Mac) and search for "google_ad_client"
If you find it, the code is properly installed
Return to your AdSense account and click the checkbox confirming you've added the code to your site.
Real Talk: The Review Period
Google's review can take anywhere from a few hours to two weeks. In my experience with Nigerian bloggers, approvals usually come within 2-5 days if everything is set up correctly. The longest I've seen was 11 days, and that blogger got approved.
During this period, don't make major changes to your site. Don't delete articles, change your theme, or modify your About page. Keep publishing new content normally, but leave the core structure alone while Google reviews.
Understanding Review Outcomes
If You Get Approved:
Congratulations! You'll receive an email saying your site is approved for AdSense. You can now create ad units and start displaying ads on your site. We'll cover what to do after approval in the next section.
If You Get Rejected:
Don't panic. Most Nigerian bloggers don't get approved on their first try. Google will send an email explaining the reason for rejection. Common rejection reasons include:
"Insufficient content": You need more articles or longer articles
"Valuable inventory: No content": Google's crawler couldn't properly access your content. Check your robots.txt file and site accessibility
"Site navigation": Your menu or site structure is confusing or doesn't work properly
"Difficult site navigation": Similar to above; improve your menu, categories, and internal linking
"Policy violations": You have content that violates AdSense policies. Remove it completely
Fix the specific issues mentioned in the rejection email, wait at least 7-14 days, and reapply. Don't reapply immediately. Take time to properly address the problems Google identified.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let me share the mistakes I've seen Nigerian bloggers make repeatedly. Avoiding these will dramatically increase your approval chances.
Content Mistakes
Copying and Pasting from Other Sites:
This is the number one killer of AdSense applications. Google's algorithm can detect copied content instantly. Even if you rewrite sentences slightly or use spinning tools, Google knows. They compare your content against billions of pages in their index.
Write from your own knowledge and experience. If you must reference other sources, read them to understand the concept, then close those pages and write in your own words. Add your personal perspective, Nigerian context, and unique examples.
Thin Content:
Articles under 600 words rarely get approved unless they're exceptionally well-written and complete. Google wants comprehensive, in-depth content that fully answers the reader's query. Aim for 1,000-1,500 words as your standard article length.
Writing for Search Engines Instead of Humans:
Some Nigerian bloggers stuff keywords into every sentence, thinking it helps with SEO. This makes content unreadable and Google's algorithm detects it as spam. Write naturally for real people. Use keywords where they fit naturally, but don't force them.
Technical Mistakes
Applying Too Soon:
I see this all the time. Bloggers create a site, publish 10 articles in one day, and apply for AdSense the same week. Google can tell you rushed. They want to see consistent, sustained effort over time. Give your blog at least 3-4 weeks of active publishing before applying.
Using Free Subdomains:
If your site address is yourname.blogspot.com or yourname.wordpress.com, you need a custom domain before applying. It costs less than ₦5,000 per year and shows Google you're serious about your blog.
Broken or Missing Essential Pages:
Surprisingly common: bloggers create an About page but forget to add it to their menu, or they generate a Privacy Policy but leave the template text without customizing it. Google checks these pages. Make sure they're complete, linked in your navigation, and actually contain relevant information.
Traffic and Promotion Mistakes
Buying Fake Traffic:
Never, ever buy traffic from Fiverr, traffic exchange sites, or bot services. Google's fraud detection is sophisticated. They can tell when your 10,000 visitors all spent 2 seconds on your site and came from suspicious sources. Fake traffic will get you permanently banned.
Having Zero Traffic:
While Google doesn't specify a minimum traffic requirement, having literally zero visitors looks suspicious. Before applying, share your content organically on social media, WhatsApp, or with friends and family. Even 50-100 real visitors is fine.
Using Other Ad Networks Before AdSense Approval:
Don't display ads from Propeller Ads, AdMaven, or similar networks on your site before getting AdSense approval. Google wants to see your site in its natural state, without competing ads cluttering the design.
The Biggest Mistake: Giving Up After One Rejection
Here's what nobody tells you: most successful Nigerian AdSense publishers got rejected at least once. Some got rejected three or four times before approval. The difference between people making money with AdSense and people who aren't isn't luck or connections. It's persistence.
When you get rejected, Google tells you why. Fix those specific issues, improve your site, wait the required period, and reapply. Each rejection teaches you exactly what Google wants. Use that information.
Policy Violations to Avoid
These content types will get you instantly rejected or banned:
Adult content, sexually suggestive material, or nudity
Violent or graphic content
Content about illegal drugs, hacking, or illegal activities
Content primarily about file-sharing or torrent downloads
Excessive profanity or hate speech
If your blog covers any of these topics, you won't get AdSense approval. Choose a different niche or remove all prohibited content before applying.
What to Do After Approval
Getting approved is just the beginning. Here's what to do immediately after you receive your approval email.
First 24 Hours After Approval
Create Your First Ad Units:
Log into your AdSense account and create ad units. Start with these types:
Responsive Display Ads: Place one above your article content (after the first paragraph) and one at the end of articles. These adapt to different screen sizes automatically.
In-Article Ads: These appear naturally within your article content. Place 1-2 per article.
Multiplex Ads: Show related content at the bottom of articles. Good for engagement.
Don't overdo it. Start with 3-4 ad placements per page. You can optimize later based on performance data.
Place Ads Strategically:
The best-performing ad positions are:
Above the fold (visible without scrolling) - usually right after your article introduction
Middle of article content - breaks up long text and gets good engagement
End of article - catches readers who finished your content
Sidebar (if your theme has one) - particularly on desktop views
First Week After Approval
Monitor Your Stats:
Check your AdSense dashboard daily. Look at these metrics:
Impressions: How many times ads were displayed
Clicks: How many times visitors clicked your ads
CTR (Click-Through Rate): Percentage of impressions that got clicks (1-3 percent is normal)
CPC (Cost Per Click): How much you earn per click (varies by niche and location)
Earnings: Your total revenue
Don't expect huge earnings immediately. In your first week, you might earn $1-$5, especially with low traffic. This is normal.
Continue Creating Content:
Your publishing schedule shouldn't change after approval. Keep creating high-quality content consistently. More content means more pages with ads, which means more earning potential.
First Month After Approval
Optimize Ad Placements:
After a week or two of data, check which ad positions perform best. Remove or relocate ads that get zero clicks. Experiment with different placements, but never put more than 3 ads per page initially.
Drive More Traffic:
Now that you have ads running, focus on increasing your traffic ethically:
Share new articles consistently on social media
Learn basic SEO to rank in Google search results
Engage in relevant online communities (without spamming)
Consider starting an email newsletter to build a loyal audience
Network with other Nigerian bloggers in your niche
Track Your Progress:
Set realistic milestones:
Month 1: Reach $10 in earnings (approximately ₦10,000)
Month 3: Reach $50 per month (approximately ₦50,000)
Month 6: Reach $100+ per month (approximately ₦100,000+)
Year 1: Reach $500+ per month (approximately ₦500,000+)
These are averages. Your results will depend on your niche, content quality, traffic volume, and traffic sources. Some Nigerian bloggers reach these milestones faster; others take longer.
Real Example: Growth Over Time
My student Emmanuel runs a tech blog focused on smartphones and affordable gadgets for Nigerians. His first month after AdSense approval, he earned $8. He was discouraged until I explained that's actually good for 1,500 monthly visitors.
He kept publishing 3 articles per week, learned SEO basics, and shared content consistently. Month 3: $45. Month 6: $127. Month 12: $380. By his second year, he was averaging $600-$800 monthly from AdSense alone, plus income from affiliate marketing.
The key wasn't any secret trick. It was consistency, quality content, and patience while his traffic grew organically through search engines and social sharing.
Important Rules to Follow
Never Click Your Own Ads:
Don't click ads on your own site, even accidentally. Don't ask friends or family to click them. Don't use VPNs to click your own ads. Google tracks this and will ban you permanently. This is called "invalid click activity" and it's the fastest way to lose your AdSense account.
Don't Encourage Clicks:
Never write text like "Click the ads to support this site" or use arrows pointing to ads. Let visitors click naturally because they're genuinely interested in the advertised products or services.
Maintain Content Quality:
After approval, some bloggers stop caring about quality and just pump out thin content to fill their site with more ad spaces. This is short-term thinking. Google continuously monitors approved sites and can revoke your approval if quality drops significantly.
Follow AdSense Policies Continuously:
Read Google's AdSense policies at least once every few months. They update them occasionally, and violations can get your account banned even after years of good standing.
Receiving Your First Payment
Payment Threshold:
Google pays when you reach $100 in earnings. They pay monthly, around the 21st-26th of each month, for earnings from the previous month.
Payment Verification:
When you reach $10 in earnings, Google will mail a PIN to your address for verification. This usually takes 2-4 weeks to arrive in Nigeria. When it arrives, enter the PIN in your AdSense account to verify your address.
Setting Up Payment Method:
For Nigerian bloggers, Google pays via wire transfer to your bank account. You'll need to provide:
Your bank name (choose from Google's list of supported Nigerian banks)
Your account number
Account holder name (must match your AdSense name exactly)
Swift code for your bank
Most major Nigerian banks work with Google: GTBank, First Bank, Zenith Bank, UBA, Access Bank, and others. The money arrives in dollars and your bank converts it to Naira at their exchange rate.
Your First Payment:
When you finally receive your first AdSense payment, it's an incredible feeling. That moment when you see money you earned from your blog sitting in your Nigerian bank account proves that this whole thing is real. You're not just writing articles into the void. You've built something that generates actual income.
Celebrate that moment, but don't stop there. Your first $100 payment is proof of concept. Now the goal is consistency and growth.
Key Takeaways
Google AdSense approval in Nigeria requires 25-30 original articles of 1,000+ words each, written from genuine expertise and experience.
A custom domain is mandatory. Free subdomains like yoursite.blogspot.com won't get approved.
Essential pages (About, Contact, Privacy Policy, Terms) must be complete, professionally written, and linked in your navigation.
Your site must be mobile-friendly, load quickly (under 3 seconds), and have clean, professional design.
Real traffic matters more than high traffic. 50-100 genuine visitors from social sharing is better than 5,000 bot visitors.
Never copy content from other sites. Google's algorithm detects plagiarism instantly and will reject your application.
The 7-day approval process requires patience. Google typically responds within 2-5 days, but it can take up to 2 weeks.
Rejection isn't failure. Most successful Nigerian AdSense publishers got rejected at least once before approval.
After approval, start with 3-4 ad placements per page. Don't overwhelm visitors with excessive ads.
Never click your own ads or ask others to click them. This is the fastest way to get permanently banned.
First payment comes after reaching $100 in earnings. For most Nigerian bloggers, this takes 3-6 months depending on traffic.
Long-term AdSense success requires consistent content creation, traffic growth, and strict adherence to Google's policies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get AdSense approval without a custom domain in Nigeria?
No, Google requires a custom domain for AdSense approval. Free subdomains like yoursite.blogspot.com or yoursite.wordpress.com are not accepted. You need to purchase a domain (yoursite.com or yoursite.com.ng) which costs around 2,000 to 5,000 Naira per year from Nigerian registrars.
How many articles do I need before applying for AdSense?
You need at least 25 to 30 high-quality original articles before applying. Each article should be 1,000 words or longer, provide genuine value to readers, and demonstrate your expertise in your niche. Quality matters more than quantity. Thirty excellent articles perform better than fifty thin, copied articles.
How long does AdSense approval take in Nigeria?
Google typically reviews Nigerian applications within 2 to 5 days, though it can take up to 2 weeks. If you follow proper requirements with quality content, essential pages, and genuine traffic, approval usually comes within a week. The review time doesn't indicate approval chances. Some sites get approved in 2 days, others in 10 days, both successfully.
What happens if my AdSense application gets rejected?
Google will send an email explaining the specific reason for rejection. Common reasons include insufficient content, policy violations, difficult site navigation, or copied content. Fix the issues mentioned in the rejection email, wait at least 7 to 14 days, then reapply. Most Nigerian bloggers don't get approved on their first try, so rejection isn't permanent failure.
Do I need traffic before applying for Google AdSense?
Google doesn't specify a minimum traffic requirement, but having some genuine traffic helps your application. Aim for at least 50 to 100 real visitors in the week before applying. This traffic should come from organic sources like social media sharing, not from bots or paid traffic services. Zero traffic makes your site look inactive or abandoned.
Can I use Blogger or must I have WordPress for AdSense approval?
Both Blogger and WordPress work perfectly for AdSense approval. Google owns Blogger, so there's no bias against it. However, you still need a custom domain pointing to your Blogger blog. The platform doesn't matter as much as your content quality, site structure, and adherence to Google's policies.
How much money can Nigerian bloggers earn from AdSense monthly?
Earnings vary widely based on traffic, niche, and content quality. Most Nigerian bloggers earn between 50 to 1,500 dollars monthly, which is approximately 50,000 to 1.5 million Naira. Beginners with low traffic might earn 10 to 50 dollars per month initially. As traffic grows to thousands of monthly visitors, earnings can reach several hundred dollars monthly.
What should I do immediately after getting AdSense approval?
Create 3 to 4 ad units and place them strategically on your site: one above the fold after your introduction, one in the middle of your content, and one at the end of articles. Monitor your performance daily but don't expect huge earnings immediately. Continue publishing quality content consistently and focus on growing your traffic through ethical methods.
Founder of Daily Reality NG. Helping everyday Nigerians navigate life, business, and digital opportunities since 2016. I've helped over 4,000 readers start making money online, and my sites currently serve 800,000+ monthly visitors across Africa.
Join thousands of Nigerian bloggers already earning passive income through Google AdSense. Start building your blog today and follow this proven system for approval.
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