Needplug: a request desk for finding sellers and artisans in Lagos

Sometimes the hard part of buying something or booking a service is knowing where to start. You have a request, but you do not yet have a vendor. Needplug is a request desk for Lagos: a place to describe what you need and your area so relevant sellers and artisans can respond.

What we mean by a request desk

A request desk starts with the customer’s need. Instead of first choosing a business name, you explain the item you want or the work you need done. Needplug uses those details to look for relevant vendors based on their offerings and coverage areas.

For example, you might need a particular sneaker size or someone to inspect a plumbing problem. Those requests require different vendors and different follow-up questions. A useful connection starts by making that distinction clear.

How it works for a Lagos customer

Open Find a vendor and describe the need in chat. Include your area and any important requirements. A responding vendor can send a quote, and you can ask questions before making a choice. Buyers see one quote at a time and can ask for another.

For a product, clarify the exact item, condition and delivery terms. For a service, agree on the scope, visit and any inspection or material costs. Vendor availability varies, so making a request is not a confirmed order or a guarantee of a match.

How it works for a business

Vendors describe what they sell or do and the areas they serve. Needplug can then match relevant requests to them. Vendors who enable WhatsApp alerts receive notifications about relevant customer requests on WhatsApp. They can then open their dashboard to review the request, quote and answer questions. Optional Telegram alerts are also available.

A laundry business can explain its collection and return schedule. A hairstylist can confirm an appointment and the materials included. A caterer can clarify the menu and serving arrangements. Each reply should help the buyer understand the actual offer.

Joining gives a business an additional way to receive enquiries. It does not guarantee a particular volume of leads, bookings or income. Vendors should keep their details current and accept only work they can deliver.

What happens after a match

The buyer chooses whether to proceed. Payment, delivery and service arrangements are agreed directly with the vendor. Needplug does not hold customer funds or currently offer escrow. An identity check does not guarantee service quality or product authenticity.

Keeping the agreement clear benefits both sides: what is being supplied, the total, the timing and any conditions should be understood before the transaction proceeds.

Built around a clearer starting point

Our aim is to make “I need something in Lagos” a more useful starting point for a conversation with a relevant business. Customers bring the need; vendors bring a specific offer. Clear questions and useful replies help both sides decide whether to work together.

If you are buying, select Find a vendor below. If you run a business, open For vendors in the main menu and choose Become a vendor to review the onboarding steps.