As the year 2008 smiles to say goodbye, I’ve been thinking about launching a poll that will award the “Best Social Network of The Year 2008″, for bringing smiles to Nigerians. Here on StartupsNigeria, I’ve reviewed quite a handful of social networks from Nigeria, and I must say its been an interesting experience for me (even though I’ve done so without taking a dime;-)

Why Social Network Award?

Social networking sites have grown and evolved in Nigeria in more recent times and are occupying a larger part of Nigerian new webspace. When you hear the word ‘naija’ (slang word for Nigeria), it’s often the prefix or suffix of the name of a social network in Nigeria.

If I’m not exagerrating, there are probably over 80 social networks in Nigeria and more are launching everyday. (I get emails every week from people who need ideas for launching a social network). Most of these sites are not real social networks, which made me wonder if social networks should merge or re-start?

In my opinion, a social network award would encourage competition in the market and thus drive more creative ideas to flourish and thereby create unique concepts and features for a truly Nigerian social networking experience.

What Are The Criterias?

The Social Network Award of the Year 2008 could be given to the social networking site that offered it’s users an interesting experience with a unique concept, fun and entertaining community. Another criteria could be the site’s membership strength, audience reach, design and layout, unique features and lots more. (You can tell us your ideas on criterias in your comments)

I think it’ll be fun and interesting to know what people think about the social networking scene in Nigeria. How much has it developed? What are the attractions? Who’s who in the game? How can it be improved? and lots more…

So, I’m using this opportunity to ask for your opinion about launching a poll survey in 2009 that would identify Nigeria’s “Social Network of The Year 2008″.

What do y’ll think?