In Nigeria’s dynamic media landscape, timing is everything.
It’s not enough to write a compelling press release—you need to know when to send it to maximize your chances of getting noticed.
If your press release lands in a journalist’s inbox at the wrong time, it could get buried under hundreds of other emails.
For SME founders, PR agencies, NGOs, and entertainment publicists, understanding the best times to distribute press releases in Nigeria can significantly increase your media coverage.
Here’s how to time it right.
Why Timing Matters in Nigerian Media
Nigeria’s journalists and editors operate on tight deadlines, with daily and weekly content cycles.
Sending your press release at the wrong time could mean it gets overlooked, even if the content is strong.
By aligning your pitch with media schedules, you can increase your chances of being picked up.
Best Days to Send Press Releases in Nigeria
- Tuesday to Thursday are the prime days for sending press releases. These days fall right in the middle of the workweek when journalists are actively seeking stories. Mondays tend to be too hectic—journalists are catching up from the weekend backlog. Fridays? Many are wrapping up for the week or preparing for lighter weekend content.
- Avoid weekends, especially Sunday. Most Nigerian media houses work on reduced staffing over the weekend. Unless it’s a major event happening during that time, save your press releases for weekdays.
Best Time of Day to Send Press Releases
- 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM (Nigerian Time) is ideal. Journalists tend to scan their inboxes early in the day. Catch them before editorial meetings or before they dive into their daily assignments.
- Late afternoon (around 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM) can work for entertainment or lifestyle journalists who prepare content for evening or weekend slots. This applies to entertainment publicists pitching music, film releases, or events.
Consider Media Type and Industry
- For entertainment news, timing can be more flexible. Many entertainment journalists cover nightlife, events, and weekend activities, so pitching later in the day or on Fridays might work.
- For government and NGO press releases, stick to early weekdays. Nigerian journalists covering policy, development, or governance are more likely to prioritize weekday stories tied to official schedules.
Avoid Sending During Major Events or Holidays
Nigeria has a busy calendar of political events, holidays, and religious seasons.
Avoid sending press releases during elections, festive seasons (Eid, Christmas, New Year), or national crises unless your story directly relates to these events.
Otherwise, your press release could be lost amid the noise.
Pro Tip: Use a Press Release Platform
Platforms like Pressdia help schedule and distribute your press releases at the right time across top Nigerian media outlets.
They understand media rhythms and ensure your story reaches journalists when they’re most receptive.
Final Thoughts
If you want your press release to get attention in Nigeria, don’t just focus on what you write—focus on when you send it.
Timing your release between Tuesday and Thursday mornings is your best bet for maximum media coverage.
