This study sought to analyse the use of social media advertising among selected online businesses in Nigeria. It studies the frequency of use of SMA/SMM (social media advertising/marketing) among businesses in Nigeria, the most preferred social media platform as well as the benefits and challenges inherent in the adoption of SMA by online businesses in Nigeria. This was done using the Survey method, surveying a total of hundred (100) businesses and the study was hinged on Technological determinism and diffusion of innovation theories. Findings revealed that online businesses in Nigeria have embraced social media advertising. It was also revealed that a number of challenges militate against the adoption of SMA by online businesses in Nigeria, salient among them is Lack of technical know how. Based on the findings, it was recommended that businesses embrace Social media advertising as it has come to stay, furthermore a model “the RIAER” was proposed to serve as a guide in implementing social media ad campaigns.
Keywords: Advertising, Online Businesses, Social Media Advertising, Social media
