How to Buy a Domain Email Address Step by Step [Beginner's Guide for Nigerians]

I’ll walk you step-by-step through how to buy your own domain email address in Nigeria — even if you’re a complete beginner.

Have you ever tried pitching your services to a big company using a Gmail or Yahoo address?

If yes, you probably got ignored — just like I was, over and over again.

A few years ago, I lost a juicy international client all because I was using a free email address.

The guy told me straight-up: “Sorry, we only deal with people using business emails.”

That was my turning point.

I immediately bought a domain name, set up my own business email (simon@ibifoundry.com.ng), and everything changed.

More replies.

More trust.

More clients.

So in this guide, I’ll walk you step-by-step through how to buy your own domain email address in Nigeria — even if you’re a complete beginner.

Let’s get it!

What You’ll Learn / Table of Contents

What a domain email really is
The shocking reason why free emails hurt your business
Step-by-step guide to buy a domain and set up your email
Top email providers in Nigeria with pricing
Pro tips and mistakes to avoid
Answers to popular questions about domain emails
My personal story that could save your next client

The Shocking Truth About Domain Emails

Most Nigerians still use Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail for work and business.

But here’s the hard truth:

Nobody takes you seriously if you’re sending business emails from a free email account.

Not even your own friends.

A domain email (like you@yourbusiness.com) shows you mean business.

It proves you’re legit, invested, and ready for real clients.

Don’t let a free email ruin your brand.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Your Own Domain Email Address

Step 1 – Choose and Register Your Domain Name

Go to a trusted domain registrar like Namecheap, GoDaddy, or Whogohost (Nigeria).

Search and register a unique domain name that fits your business (like example.ng or example.com).

Domains usually cost around ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 per year.

Step 2 – Pick a Reliable Email Hosting Provider

You need an email hosting plan to use that domain for email.

Top email hosts include Zoho Mail, Google Workspace, Namecheap Email, and Titan Email.

Prices range from free (Zoho) to ₦15,000/year for premium plans.

Step 3 – Connect Your Domain to Your Email Hosting

Once you buy your email hosting, they’ll give you DNS settings.

Go back to your domain registrar and update your DNS records (MX, SPF, DKIM).

This step links your domain name to your new inbox.

Step 4 – Create Your Custom Domain Email Account

Log into your hosting dashboard and create your first email address.

Examples: info@yourdomain.ng, hello@yourname.com, sales@yourbusiness.ng.

You can create more inboxes or forwarders as needed.

Step 5 – Access and Start Using Your Domain Email

You can now log in via your hosting provider’s webmail or mobile app.

Or link it to Gmail using POP/IMAP.

Start sending and receiving emails like a pro.

Benefits of Having a Custom Domain Email

You look more professional and trustworthy

More likely to get replies from companies and clients

You can build consistent branding across your email, domain, and business

It’s easier to manage email security, spam, and backups

You stand out from the crowd

Common Mistakes Nigerians Make When Buying Domain Emails (And How to Avoid Them)

Using long or complicated domain names

Skipping DNS setup — and wondering why the email doesn’t work

Not renewing domain on time, leading to email outage

Using only one inbox (instead of creating one for support, info, sales, etc.)

Buying from shady or fake providers without support

How to Choose the Best Platform for Domain Email in Nigeria

Look for Nigerian-friendly payment options (Naira, bank transfer, etc.)

Check if the platform has free or affordable starter plans

Make sure their DNS setup guide is easy for beginners

Read reviews to confirm support and reliability

If unsure, go with Whogohost + Zoho Mail (great combo for Nigerians)

Best Domain Email Providers in Nigeria and Their Prices (2025)

Whogohost + Zoho Mail (Free + Paid): ₦7,000+ per year for domain + free email for up to 5 users
Google Workspace (Gmail for Business): ₦20,000+ per year per user
Namecheap Email Hosting: ₦10,000/year for basic inbox
Titan Email via Hostinger or Truehost: ₦7,500 to ₦15,000/year

Real-Life Examples: What a Custom Domain Email Looks Like

Smart Tips for Managing Your Domain Email Like a Pro

Set up your inbox on Gmail (via IMAP) for easy access

Create folders or labels for sorting client mails

Add your domain email signature with links to your website or offers

Renew your domain and email hosting early to avoid downtime

Use SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records for email security and deliverability

You’re One Step Closer to Looking More Professional

If you’ve read this far, you’re clearly serious about your business.

You now know how to buy and set up your own custom domain email — the right way.

Trust me, it’ll change everything.

You’ll be taken more seriously.

You’ll get more replies.

And you’ll start closing more deals — just like I did.

Ready to take that step?

Go get your domain email today.

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About the Writer

Simon Taki Zaku is the founder of IbiFoundry Media. He’s a serial entrepreneur, digital strategist, and Nigeria’s go-to voice for beginner-friendly tech guides. He writes, speaks, and builds tools that empower African creators.

Catch up with Simon at ibifoundry.com.ng.