Need some extra cash? With living costs in Nigeria rising, many people are looking for ways to earn more. A side hustle is a great option. It’s a way to make extra money outside your main job, giving you more flexibility and control over your time. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or just want to save more, there’s a side hustle for you.
So, what is a side hustle? It’s an activity you do besides your main job to earn extra money. In 2024, there are countless options. This blog post will share 50 proven side hustle ideas that Nigerians can start today, especially those that require little effort to get going.
50 Proven Side Hustle Ideas
Ready to start earning? Let’s get into it!
I. Online Side Hustle Ideas
The internet offers many chances for Nigerians to make money from home. Here are some popular online side hustles:
A. Online Platforms
Do you have a skill others need? Or are you passionate about sports? Online platforms let you use your skills on your terms.
FantasyFi is a platform for sports fans, combining fantasy sports with cash prizes. It helps users earn money from their sports knowledge.
How FantasyFi Works FantasyFi allows you to create teams with real-life players in sports like soccer, cricket, and basketball. You earn points and cash prizes based on your players’ performance in real games. Every match is exciting, with prizes up to ₦85,000,000 ($50,000).
Key Features
- Variety of Sports: Currently includes soccer, cricket, and basketball, with more to come.
- Different Contest Types: Choose from public, private, head-to-head, and mega contests based on your style.
- Flexible Payments: Use local currencies (NGN, GHS, KES) for easy transactions.
- Instant Withdrawals: Cash out your winnings directly to your bank or mobile money account for quick access.
Getting Started
- Register on FantasyFi and pick your sport.
- Select a match and click ‘Create Team’ to choose 11 players, including a Captain and Vice-Captain.
- Join contests: Choose free or paid contests. Paid contests require a fee but offer big cash prizes.
- Track your team’s performance as the match goes on.
Types of Contests
- Public Contests: Compete against many users for large prize pools.
- Head-to-Head: Challenge one opponent directly.
- Mega Contests: Huge contests with a chance to win big money.
- Practice Contests: Improve your skills without paying an entry fee.
Scoring and Rules FantasyFi has specific scoring for each sport. For example, in soccer:
- Goal by Forward: +40 points
- Assist: +20 points
- Clean Sheet for Defenders/Goalkeepers: +20 points (if they play over 55 minutes)
- Penalty Miss: -20 points
Maximise Your Earnings With FantasyFi, a small investment can lead to big rewards. For just ₦1,700 ($1), you could earn up to ₦84,400,000 ($50,000) on match day. The platform even has a 50% chance of winning, giving you a fair shot at profit.
Ready to play? Sign up on FantasyFi, build your dream team, and start turning your sports knowledge into cash!
B. Freelancing
Do you have a skill others need? Freelancing lets you offer your services on your terms.
Freelance Writing (Content, Copywriting, Blogging, etc.) As digital marketing grows, many Nigerian businesses seek skilled writers to create content for their websites and social media. If you love writing, freelancing is one of the most popular side hustle ideas.
Where to Find Work:
Tips to Get Started:
- Build a Portfolio: Write for free for friends or non-profits to show your skills.
- Set Competitive Rates: Look at other writers’ charges and set your prices accordingly.
- Market Your Services: Create a website or profile to showcase your work and attract clients.
Social Media Management Many Nigerian businesses struggle with social media. If you know how to manage social media, you can help them create content and engage with followers.
Popular Platforms in Nigeria:
Resources for Learning Social Media Management:
Affiliate Marketing Affiliate marketing lets you earn a commission for promoting another company’s products or services. You essentially act as a salesperson for a brand, getting a cut from each sale you make.
Popular Affiliate Programs in Nigeria:
- Jumia Affiliate Program
- Konga Affiliate Program
Tips for Success:
- Choose a Profitable Niche: Focus on popular and in-demand products.
- Build an Audience: Create a website, blog, or social media presence to attract potential customers.
- Promote Effectively: Use various marketing techniques to drive traffic to your affiliate links.
Other Freelancing Opportunities There are many other freelancing jobs available, such as:
- Virtual Assistant: Provide remote administrative or technical support.
- Graphic Design: Create attractive designs for websites and social media.
- Web Development: Build and maintain websites for clients.
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C. E-commerce and Online Business
Want to be your boss and join Nigeria’s growing online market? E-commerce and other online business models offer amazing opportunities.
E-commerce (Selling on Jumia, Konga, etc.) Forget the limits of a physical store. Selling online in Nigeria lets you reach many customers nationwide at lower costs. Platforms like Jumia and Konga make it easy to get started.
Tips for E-commerce Success:
- Product Selection: Find products in high demand but with low competition. Look for unique items or cater to a specific niche.
- Compelling Product Descriptions: Write clear and convincing descriptions that highlight key features.
- High-Quality Images: Use professional photos to show off your products.
- Competitive Pricing: Research competitors and set attractive but profitable prices.
- Effective Marketing: Use social media and online ads to reach your audience and drive traffic to your store.
Dropshipping: Do you want to sell online without managing inventory? Dropshipping is the way to go. You partner with a supplier who cares for storage and shipping so you can focus on marketing.
Advantages of Dropshipping:
- Low Startup Costs: No need to buy inventory upfront.
- Wide Product Selection: Offer various products without bulk purchases.
- Location Flexibility: Run your business from anywhere with internet access.
Platforms for Finding Dropshipping Suppliers:
- SaleHoo
- Doba
- Worldwide Brands
Blogging Love a particular topic? Share your insights through blogging. With consistent effort, you can build a loyal audience and make money through ads, affiliate marketing, or selling your products.
Potential of Blogging in Nigeria:
- Establish Yourself as an Expert: Build credibility in your niche.
- Connect with Like-Minded People: Create a community around your blog.
- Generate Income: Monetize your blog in different ways.
Tips for Blogging Success:
- Niche Selection: Choose a specific topic you’re passionate about.
- Content Creation: Publish high-quality, engaging content regularly.
- SEO Optimization: Optimize your posts for search engines to attract traffic.
- Social Media Promotion: Share your content on social media to reach a wider audience.
YouTube Channel Videos are popular in Nigeria. YouTube lets you share your creativity with a large audience. You can earn money through ads, sponsorships, or selling merchandise.
Tips for YouTube Success:
- Content Creation: Make high-quality videos that are entertaining or informative.
- Channel Optimization: Optimize your title, description, and tags for better search results.
- Engagement: Interact with viewers by responding to comments.
- Promotion: Share your videos on social media.
II. Offline Side Hustle Ideas
Do you prefer working face-to-face and hands-on? Nigeria has many offline side hustle ideas and opportunities.
A. Transportation and Delivery
Ride-hailing Driver (Uber, Bolt)
With apps like Uber and Bolt, you can become a driver and earn extra money. You choose your hours and get paid to take passengers around your city.
Requirements:
- A valid driver’s license
- A well-kept vehicle
- A smartphone with a data plan
Potential earnings: Earnings depend on how much you work, where you are, and how busy it is. Many drivers in Nigeria make a good income.
Food Delivery (Jumia Food, Bolt Food)
If you love food and want to explore your city, consider working as a delivery driver for services like Jumia Food and Bolt Food. You pick up food orders from restaurants and deliver them to customers.
Process:
- Sign up with a food delivery service.
- Receive orders through the app.
- Pick up orders from restaurants.
- Deliver orders to customers.
Potential earnings: Like ride-hailing, earnings vary, but it can be a good way to make extra money, especially during busy times.
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B. Events and Services
Event Planning and Catering
Nigerians love to celebrate! There is always a need for event planners and caterers for weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.
Getting started:
- Build a portfolio: Offer your services to friends and family to gain experience.
- Network: Connect with other professionals in the event industry.
- Market your services: Create a website or use social media to show your work.
Beauty and Fashion (Makeup Artist, Hair Stylist)
The beauty and fashion industry in Nigeria is growing. If you’re good at makeup or hairstyling, you can offer your services for weddings or special events.
Building a clientele:
- Word-of-mouth referrals: Ask happy clients to tell others about you.
- Social media marketing: Share your work on Instagram and other platforms.
- Collaborations: Work with photographers or event planners.
C. Tutoring and Personal Training
Tutoring (In-person or online)
There is a high demand for tutors in Nigeria, especially for math, English, and science subjects. You can tutor in person or online using platforms like Zoom.
Platforms for finding tutoring jobs:
- Tuteria
- PrepClass
Personal Trainer
As more Nigerians focus on health, the fitness industry is growing. If you love fitness, you can become a certified personal trainer and help others reach their fitness goals.
Getting certified:
- National Institute for Sports (NIS): Offers fitness certifications.
- International fitness certifications: Look for certifications from groups like ACE or NASM.
Finding clients:
- Network at gyms: Meet potential clients.
- Social media marketing: Show your skills and client success stories.
- Offer free consultations: Attract new clients with a free introductory session.
D. Home Services
Home Cleaning and Laundry Services
Many busy people in Nigeria need help with chores. Offering cleaning or laundry services can be a great way to help them.
Marketing your services:
- Word-of-mouth referrals: Ask satisfied clients to recommend you.
- Flyers and posters: Hand out flyers in your area.
- Online platforms: List your services on websites like Jiji or Facebook Marketplace.
Errand Running and Handyman Services
From grocery shopping to fixing leaky faucets, errand running and handyman services can make life easier for busy people.
Setting rates and finding clients:
- Research market rates: Check what others charge for similar services.
- Network with potential clients: Let people know about what you offer.
- Online platforms: Use online sites to find clients.
Car Washing
With more car owners in Nigeria, there’s a steady demand for car washing services. You can set up a mobile car wash or have a fixed location.
Setting up a car wash business:
- Secure a location: Find a visible spot with access to water.
- Acquire equipment: Get the tools you need for car washing.
- Market your services: Promote your car wash using flyers, social media, and local ads.
This covers offline side hustles. Next, we’ll explore creative opportunities for you to express yourself!
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IV. Creative Side Hustle Ideas
Do you love art, music, or writing? You can turn your creative talents into a side job that earns you money.
A. Arts and Crafts
Handmade Crafts (Jewelry, Artwork, etc.)
Nigeria has a strong tradition of handmade goods. Items like beadwork, textiles, wood carvings, and pottery are in high demand.
Where to Sell Your Crafts:
- Etsy: An online shop for handmade items.
- Instagram: Show off your creations and find buyers.
- Craft Fairs: Sell your items directly at local events.
- Jumia and Konga: List your crafts on these popular shopping sites.
Fashion Design
Nigeria’s fashion industry is lively, and there’s a growing market for local designers. If you enjoy fashion, you can start your clothing line or offer tailoring services.
Tips for Starting a Fashion Business:
- Create a Unique Style: Design clothes that showcase your personal taste and target a specific audience.
- Use Quality Materials: Choose good fabrics to make sure your clothes last.
- Build Your Online Presence: Share your designs on social media and set up a website.
- Join Fashion Events: Get noticed by attending shows and connecting with potential customers.
B. Music and Dance
Music Lessons and Dance Instruction
These are key parts of Nigerian culture. If you can sing or dance, consider teaching others.
How to Find Students:
- Word-of-Mouth: Ask happy students to refer you to others.
- Social Media: Promote your services on Facebook or Instagram.
- Community Centers: Offer lessons at local centres or schools.
- Online Platforms: Use sites like Tuteria or Superprof to find students.
C. Writing and Publishing
Writing and Self-Publishing
There’s a growing interest in Nigerian literature, creating demand for new stories. If you enjoy writing, you can publish your books or ebooks.
Tips for Writing and Publishing:
- Improve Your Writing Skills: Write often and get feedback from others.
- Choose a Publishing Platform: Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is a great choice for self-publishing.
- Make an Attractive Cover: Design a good cover and write an interesting book description.
- Market Your Book: Use social media, ads, and reviews to reach readers.
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V. Other Side Hustles
Here are more unique side hustle ideas to think about:
- Real Estate and Insurance Agent: Help people buy, sell, rent properties, or offer insurance services.
- Translator and Social Media Influencer: Offer translation services if you speak multiple languages. Influencers can earn money by promoting products.
- Thrifting and Reselling: Find clothes or vintage items to resell for a profit.
- Phone and Computer Repairs: Offer repair services for phones and computers.
- Gardening and Landscaping: Help people maintain their gardens and yards.
- Pet Sitting and Dog Walking: Care for pets when their owners are away.
- Rent a Spare Room or Car: Use platforms like Airbnb and Ridelink to earn money by renting out space or a vehicle.
- Brand Ambassador: Promote a brand at events or online.
- Focus Groups and Mystery Shopping: Give feedback on products and earn money by participating in research.
VI. Featured Side Hustle: FantasyFi – Make Money from Your Sports Knowledge
Are you a big football fan? Do you analyse player stats and predict match outcomes? You can make money with FantasyFi, a popular fantasy sports platform in Nigeria.
What is FantasyFi?
FantasyFi is a website where you create teams of real sports players and earn points based on their performance in real games. It combines skill and strategy, and you can win cash prizes.
Unique Features of FantasyFi:
- Local Currency Support: You can deposit and withdraw money easily in Nigerian Naira (NGN).
- Multiple Sports: FantasyFi offers various sports, not just football, including cricket and basketball.
- Different Contest Types: Join free or paid contests and compete for prizes, whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
How to Start with FantasyFi:
- Register: Sign up on the FantasyFi website.
- Choose Your Sport: Pick the sport you want to play.
- Create Your Team: Select 11 players, including a captain and vice-captain, while staying within a budget.
- Join a Contest: Find a contest that fits your style and budget.
- Follow the Matches: Keep track of your team’s performance as games happen.
- Win Cash Prizes: Earn money based on your team’s score.
Benefits of FantasyFi:
- Good Earning Potential: You can win significant cash prizes with skilful team selection.
- Flexible and Convenient: Play from anywhere, at any time.
- Fun and Entertaining: Enjoy combining your love for sports with earning money.
Ready to turn your passion into profit? Join FantasyFi today.