Top 43 Side Hustle Ideas in Nigeria For Extra Income

Starting a side hustle can be a great way to achieve financial independence and sustain one’s self in Nigeria. The current minimum wage, at the time of writing, is N30,000(about $50) and this is barely enough for many people in the current economic state.

So we’ll be sharing the top 43 side hustle ideas in Nigeria for you to try out with your creativity and availability. Like Maya Angelou said, You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.

So, let’s get started…

What Do Side Hustles Mean?

Side hustles are part-time jobs that a person does alongside their regular job. A side hustle gets its name because it's on the side of one's full-time job.

So, a side hustle requires that the person is working elsewhere too.

Top Side Hustles Statistics In Nigeria In 2023

1. The most popular side hustles in Nigeria are freelance writing, social media marketing, online tutoring, graphic design, event planning, personal shopping, photography, blogging, and ride-sharing.
2. The average monthly income for a side hustler in Nigeria is ₦100,000.
3. The highest-paying side hustles in Nigeria are freelance writing, social media marketing, and online tutoring.
4. The most profitable side hustles in Nigeria are those that require a specific skill or talent, such as freelance writing, graphic design, or photography.
5. The best side hustles for students in Nigeria are those that can be done from home, such as freelance writing, online tutoring, or graphic design.
6. The most popular side hustle platforms in Nigeria are Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer.com.

How To Start A Side Hustle in Nigeria

There is a multitude of available side hustle ideas in Nigeria, which can make it challenging to initiate the process. But these 10 steps can help:

1. Identify your skills and interests: Start by assessing your skills, talents, and hobbies. Consider what you enjoy doing.
2. Research the market: Look for side hustle ideas that are in demand in Nigeria. Research the market to understand the needs and preferences of potential customers.
3. Evaluate your resources: Assess the resources you have available, such as time, money, and equipment. Choose a side hustle idea that aligns with your available resources.
4. Create a business plan: Develop a simple business plan outlining your goals, target audience, marketing strategies, and financial projections. This will help you stay organized and focused.
5. Register your business: Depending on the type of side hustle you choose, you may need to register your business with the appropriate government authorities. Consult with a legal professional or visit the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for guidance.
6. Set up your workspace: Prepare a dedicated workspace, whether it's a home office or a physical location, depending on the nature of your side hustle.
7. Build a network: Networking is essential for any business. Attend relevant industry events, join online communities, and connect with potential customers or partners.
8. Market your side hustle: Utilize both online and offline marketing strategies to promote your side hustle. This can include social media marketing, word-of-mouth referrals, flyers, and targeted advertisements.
9. Provide excellent customer service: Focus on delivering exceptional customer service to build a loyal customer base. Satisfied customers are more likely to refer your side hustle to others.
10. Monitor your progress: Regularly track your income, expenses, and overall performance. This will help you identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.

The number of side hustlers in Nigeria is growing rapidly because more and more people are looking for ways to supplement their income. There are a number of resources available to help people start and grow their side hustles, including government programs, online courses, and mentorship programs. Take advantage of them to build skills and expertise.

Top 43 Side Hustle Ideas In Nigeria

The best side hustle ideas in Nigeria to consider for extra income are:

1. Freelancing: Embrace Your Skills and Talents

Freelancing offers a world of opportunities, allowing you to leverage your skills and talents while working independently. Many freelancing platforms like Upwork, allow you to apply for entry-level jobs and start to earn immediately.

The flexibility to work remotely from home is also an attractive feature of freelance work, which allows you to work when is convenient for you. You can do freelance writing, graphic designing, video editing, and more.

Average Monthly Earning: N75,000

2. E-commerce: Tap into the Online Marketplace

With the rapid growth of e-commerce, starting an online store has become more accessible than ever before. You can set up your e-commerce store on local platforms like Pocket, Jumia, and JiJi and market your product for sale.

Or you can sell using your mobile device via Whatsapp. You buy directly from suppliers and resell to end users. You make a profit from every purchase and may not need to be involved directly.

Start by identifying trending products, establish reliable suppliers, and then market your products effectively to maximize your earnings.

3. Blogging: Share Your Passions and Expertise

If you enjoy writing and have a passion for a specific niche, blogging can be an ideal side hustle. Start a blog where you can share your knowledge, experiences, and insights.

With dedication, good search engine knowledge and strategic content creation, you can attract a loyal readership and monetize your blog through advertising, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.

Average Monthly Salary: N70,000

4. Crypto P2P trading

Engaging in peer-to-peer cryptocurrency trading by buying and selling digital currencies directly with other individuals can be profitable too.

There are different ways to earn from p2p trading and you can get started on BitBarter.

5. Online Tutoring: Educate and Empower Others

Nigeria has a thriving education sector, and online tutoring presents an excellent opportunity to share your knowledge while earning extra income.

Since the pandemic in 2020, online tutoring has been popular because, one way or the other, education had to continue, especially for kids.

Leverage your expertise in subjects like mathematics, science, or languages and provide online tutoring sessions to students across the country.

Average Monthly Salary: N30,000

6. Photography: Capture Moments, Capture Profits

If you have a passion for photography, why not turn it into a lucrative side hustle? Nigeria is a country rich in culture and diversity, providing countless opportunities for stunning photographs.

Offer your services as a professional photographer for events, portraits, or even stock photography. Market your work through online platforms and social media to attract clients.

Average Monthly Salary: N65,000

7. Handmade Crafts: Unleash Your Creativity

If you possess artistic skills and enjoy creating handmade crafts, you can transform your hobby into a profitable venture.

Design unique and eye-catching products like jewellery, home decor items, or clothing accessories. Sell your creations through online marketplaces like Jumia, or Konga, and leverage social media to reach a broader audience.

8. App Development: Ride the Wave of Technology

In a digitally-driven world, mobile applications have become indispensable. If you have programming skills or a keen interest in app development, consider creating your own mobile apps.

Identify a problem-solving app idea, develop it, and market it to potential users. You can generate revenue through in-app purchases, subscriptions, or advertisements.

9. Affiliate Marketing: Earn Through Referrals

Affiliate marketing is a popular method of earning passive income. You can join affiliate programs of established companies and promote their products or services through your website, blog, or social media platforms.

Earn commissions for each successful referral or sale made through your unique affiliate links.

10. Personal Training: Inspire Others to Achieve Fitness Goals

Fitness and wellness have gained significant importance in Nigeria and many and it's becoming an increasingly popular thing to visit the gum now. If you are passionate about health and fitness, you should consider becoming a personal trainer.

Offer personalized training sessions, create workout plans, and provide nutritional guidance to clients. You can conduct one-on-one sessions or group fitness classes.

Average Monthly Salary: N215,000

11. Graphic Design: Transform Ideas into Visual Delights

Graphic design is a valuable skill in our visual-centric world. If you have an eye for aesthetics and creativity, offer graphic design services to individuals and businesses.

Learn to use design tools and create captivating logos, marketing materials, and digital assets that align with your client's branding requirements for a profit.

Average Monthly Salary: N149500

12. Event Planning: Turn Occasions into Unforgettable Experiences

Nigerians love to celebrate, making event planning a lucrative side hustle option. With meticulous attention to detail, organizational skills, and creativity, you can plan and execute memorable events such as weddings, parties, or corporate functions.

Establish strong connections with vendors and build a portfolio to attract potential clients.

Average Monthly Income: N251,000

13. Content Writing: Craft Engaging and Informative Text

In the digital realm, content is king. If you have a way with words, consider offering content writing services.

Create compelling and well-researched articles, blog posts, website copy, or product descriptions for businesses and online publications. Build a strong online presence and reputation to attract high-paying clients.

Average Monthly Salary: N133,500

14. Virtual Assistance: Provide Remote Support

As businesses increasingly embrace remote work, the demand for virtual assistants has surged.

If you possess organizational and administrative skills, offer virtual assistance services. Manage emails, schedule appointments, handle customer inquiries, and assist with various administrative tasks remotely.

Average Monthly Salary: N125,000.

15. Language Translation: Bridge Communication Gaps

Nigeria is a multilingual country, and translation services come in handy. If you are fluent in multiple languages, offer translation services to individuals and businesses.

Translate documents, websites, or audiovisual content to facilitate effective communication between different language speakers.

16. Content Creator: Entertain and Educate Audiences

YouTube and TikTok have emerged as a powerful platform for content creators. If you have the ability to entertain, educate, or inspire audiences, consider starting your own YouTube channel or TikTok account.

Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and create engaging videos. Monetize your channel through ad revenue, sponsored content, or product endorsements.

17. Home Baking: Delight Taste Buds with Your Creations

Nigerians have a deep appreciation for delicious food, making home baking a profitable side hustle. Master the art of baking and offer delectable treats like cakes, pastries, or cookies.

Market your products through social media, word-of-mouth, or local food delivery platforms to attract customers.

18. Dropshipping: Streamline E-commerce Operations

If you want to start an e-commerce business without the hassle of inventory management, consider drop shipping. Source products from suppliers and list them on your online store.

When a customer places an order, the supplier directly ships the product to the customer. Focus on marketing and customer service to drive sales.

19. Financial Consulting: Guide Others Towards Financial Success

If you have a strong background in finance or accounting, offer financial consulting services. Help individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions, develop budgets, manage investments, or plan for retirement.

Establish credibility through certifications and testimonials to attract clients.

20. Car Wash Services: Shine in the Auto Industry

Cars are a common mode of transportation in Nigeria, and car wash services are always in demand. Provide efficient and thorough car wash and detailing services.

Offer additional services like interior cleaning, waxing, or polishing to cater to a wide range of customers.

21. Online Coaching: Share Your Expertise

Do you have specialized knowledge or skills? Consider offering online coaching or mentorship services.

Help individuals enhance their abilities in areas such as entrepreneurship, personal development, career advancement, or specific skills like photography or digital marketing.

Conduct one-on-one sessions or group coaching programs.

22. Rental Services: Utilize Your Assets

If you have unused assets like cameras, equipment, or even properties, consider renting them out.

Platforms like Olist provide opportunities to monetize your assets by connecting you with potential renters. Ensure proper documentation and agreements to protect your interests.

23. Agricultural Ventures: Embrace the Green Thumb

Nigeria's agricultural sector presents vast opportunities for side hustles. Consider ventures like organic farming, poultry farming, or aquaculture.

Identify market demands, develop sustainable practices, and connect with local suppliers and consumers to establish a profitable agricultural business.

24. Carpooling: Share Rides, Save Money

As urban areas become more congested, carpooling has gained popularity as a cost-effective and eco-friendly transportation option. Create a platform or join existing carpooling services to connect drivers and passengers with similar routes.

Help reduce traffic congestion and provide a convenient commuting solution. And make a decent profit.

25. Professional organizing services

If you have a knack for organizing and decluttering, you can start a professional organizing business. You can offer your services to individuals and businesses who need help getting their space in order.

To get started, you can create a website or social media presence to market your services. You can also network with other professionals in the industry to find leads.

26. Home cleaning services

Another great side hustle for people who are organized and efficient is home cleaning. You can offer your services to individuals and families who are short on time or who don't enjoy cleaning.

To get started, you can create a flyer or post on social media to let people know about your services. You can also offer discounts for new customers or for recurring bookings.

27. Personal chef or catering services

If you love to cook, you can start a personal chef or catering business. You can offer your services to individuals, families, or businesses who need help with meal planning and preparation.

Create a menu of your signature dishes and market your services online or in person. You can also offer cooking classes or demonstrations to generate interest in your business.

28. Mobile phone repairs

You may have a knack for fixing gadgets and this can start a mobile phone repair business. You can offer your services to individuals and businesses who need help with broken or malfunctioning mobile phones.

To get started, you will need to purchase the necessary tools and equipment. You can also take online courses to learn about mobile phone repair.

29. Computer repairs and maintenance

If you are computer literate, you can start a computer repairs and maintenance business.

You can offer your services to individuals and businesses who need help with computer problems such as viruses, hardware issues, or software installation.

30. Social media influencer or brand ambassador

Nowadays, many brands are looking for micro-influencers to help market their products.

If you have a large following on social media, you can become a social media influencer or brand ambassador.

Businesses will pay you to promote their products or services on your social media channels. And you can make income from there.

31. Property rental management

Short-letting apartments and being the middleman that connects people to properties is a profitable venture.

You offer your services to landlords who need help with finding tenants, collecting rent, and managing the day-to-day operations of their properties. And they pay you an agreed-upon commission.

32. Interior design consulting

If you have a good eye for design, you can start an interior design consulting business.

Your ideal clients would be individuals and businesses who need help with decorating their homes or offices.

To get started, you will need to create a portfolio of your work and market your services online or in person.

33. DJ services for events

Although not as popular as an MC (Master of Ceremony), the DJ business is lucrative.

You can offer your services to businesses and individuals who need a DJ for parties, weddings, and other events.

You can also create a sound mix and sell it for profit. And on average, you earn up to N195,000 monthly.

34. Car rental services

With the popularity of Uber, Bolt, Rida, etc in Nigeria, car owners can easily rent out their cars to others in exchange for profit sharing.

If you have a car you don't use very often, you can rent it out to others. It’s estimated that active Bolt drivers earn as high as N300,000 monthly.

35. Personal shopping and concierge services

You can earn money by offering personal shopping services where you assist clients in purchasing desired items or running errands on their behalf. For concierge services, you can provide various tasks like booking appointments, making reservations, and organizing events.

Average earnings can range from 20,000 to 50,000 Naira per month, depending on the number of clients and services provided.

36. Social Media Management: Capitalize on the Digital Era

In today's digital age, social media plays a pivotal role in business growth. Many businesses are willing to outsource their social media management tasks to experts.

If you have a knack for social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or Twitter, consider offering social media management services to local businesses and entrepreneurs.

Average Monthly Salary: N100,000

37. Laundry and dry cleaning services

Start a laundry and dry cleaning business, either by offering door-to-door services or establishing a physical location.

Promote your services through local advertising and word-of-mouth referrals. Average earnings can range from 50,000 to 100,000 Naira per month, depending on the number of customers and services provided.

38. Mobile phone accessories sales

Set up an online store or sell through e-commerce platforms, social media, or local markets. Offer a wide range of mobile phone accessories like cases, chargers, screen protectors, and headphones.

Average earnings can vary based on sales volume, but you can aim to earn around 50,000 to 100,000 Naira per month.

39. Personalized gift creation and sales

Utilize your creativity to make personalized gifts such as customized mugs, t-shirts, photo frames, or handmade crafts. Market your products through social media platforms, local craft fairs, and gift shops.

You can aim to earn around 30,000 to 80,000 Naira per month.

40. Online survey taking

Sign up with reputable online survey websites and participate in surveys to earn money. Be cautious of potential scams and select trustworthy platforms like Swagbucks, and Survey Junkie.

Earnings depend on the number of surveys completed and can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of Naira per month.

41. Travel consulting and itinerary planning

Offer travel consulting services where you provide guidance and assistance to individuals planning their trips, including itinerary planning, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips.

Charge a fee for your services or earn through affiliate partnerships with travel agencies. Make a decent profit of around 50,000 to 100,000 Naira per month, depending on the number of clients and complexity of services provided.

42. Resume writing and career coaching

Develop expertise in resume writing and career coaching to assist individuals in creating compelling resumes and providing career guidance.

Advertise your services online, network with professionals, and join job search platforms. You can earn an average of 30,000 to 80,000 Naira per month, depending on the number of clients and additional services offered.

43. Podcasting and audio content creation

Start a podcast and create engaging audio content on topics of interest to your target audience.

Monetize your podcast through sponsorships, advertising, or listener support. Your average earnings can vary significantly based on podcast popularity and revenue streams, but successful podcasts can generate thousands to hundreds of thousands of Naira per month.

Side Hustle Ideas: Different Categories Available in Nigeria

1. Skill-based side hustles: These are side hustles that require you to have a particular skill or set of skills. Some examples of skill-based side hustles include freelance writing, graphic design, and web development.
2. Service-based side hustles: These are side hustles that involve providing a service to others. Some examples are dog walking, house cleaning, and Uber driving.
3. Retail side hustles: These side hustles involve selling products. Some examples of retail side hustles include dropshipping, selling handmade goods, and reselling products from thrift stores.
4. E-commerce side hustles: These are similar to retail side hustles but you sell products or services online. Some examples of e-commerce side hustles include starting a blog or creating an online course.
5. Investment side hustles: These are side hustles that involve investing money to make a profit. Some examples of investment side hustles include day trading and p2p trading.
6. Creative side hustles: These are side hustles that involve using your creativity to make money. Some examples of creative side hustles include writing a book, starting a podcast, and creating art for sale.

Conclusion

Starting a side hustle in Nigeria can be a fulfilling and financially rewarding endeavour. The key is to identify your passions, skills, and the market demand for your chosen side hustle.