Did you know that as a student in Nigeria, you can earn money through a variety of side hustles? Being a student shouldn’t hinder you from pursuing an entrepreneurial career.
In fact, with the appropriate business ideas, you can earn extra money while simultaneously gaining useful skills and experience. Many students in Nigeria’s schools are starting businesses while still in school, and you can be one of them.
Whether you want to generate some extra money or set the groundwork for a future business, we’ve compiled a list of ten side hustles suitable for Nigerian students.
Web and app development
You may not be a professional website or app builder right now. But you can study the fundamentals, which is enough to get started in this industry. Approach businesses with simple web or app development requirements and work on their projects in your free time.
However, if you have an advanced degree, certification, or experience with complex web and app development, you can begin onboarding clients with complex needs.
Not only will it pay handsomely, but it will also help you establish a strong portfolio for future high-ticket clients.
Photography and videography
Do you have a knack for capturing unusual images? You better get paid for this talent, because people all over the world are eager to pay high prices for photographers and videographers.
Create a brand and reach out to your target audience based on your area of expertise: wildlife, human portraits, nature, or landscape. You may need to invest in photographic equipment and editing software to provide high-quality photography services.
But here’s the crucial thing to remember: it’s a lucrative endeavour that could eventually lead to a full-time job. This makes every cent of investment worthwhile.
Virtual assistant
Do you possess managerial and organisational skills? You can become a virtual assistant for small businesses, busy entrepreneurs, and professionals.
All you have to do is coordinate their calendars, arrange meetings, possibly manage their social media, do some data entry, and provide customer support. The service offers vary depending on your competence and the needs of the clients. However, it generally remains within the same scope.
While this is only a summary, there are numerous different digital services you might provide as a college student. To get started, identify your strengths, market your services, and sign up a few clients.
Blogging/Vlogging
Any hobby you have can be turned into a blog or vlog, whether it’s drawing, food, fashion, lifestyle, travel, gaming, or something in a niche market. While these activities may not pay off right away, once you have a sizable following, brand agreements and affiliations will provide a substantial income.
It may sound exciting to transform a passion into a business idea. While this is true, you must constantly upgrade and skill yourself in order to transform this passion into a profitable business.
The list above is only a small sample of passion-based enterprises for college students. You may now pursue whatever passion you have and turn it into a profitable business.
Freelance writing
If you’re a skilled or talented writer, freelance writing might provide a great way for you to make money as you pursue your education. Freelance writers of all kinds are in demand by businesses and publications looking for temporary employees to write blog posts, articles, and other content.
One of the biggest benefits of freelance writing at a younger age is that you’ll gain experience that can help you later on as you establish a career. Sites like Upwork, Fiverr and Writer Access provide a secure platform for businesses and freelancers to connect.
Podcasting
Podcasts are becoming increasingly popular, so now is an excellent moment to start your own. The most popular podcasts have compelling hosts and a specialised theme that draws in listeners.
Before you begin a podcast, you must also be comfortable conducting interviews and public speeches. It is essential to choose a topic about which you are passionate and can picture yourself devoting a significant amount of time to research.
For example, if you are enthusiastic about food, your podcast may focus on interviews with other entrepreneurs who now own restaurants.
Healthy foods startup
The market for healthy food items is quickly expanding all over the world. Whether it’s healthy snacking, sugar-free alternatives, easy-to-cook healthy meals, or sauces, there’s a lot to discover in this market sector.
You may launch a healthy food firm with a limited product selection, even on a small budget. Restrict your business geographically, at least initially, until you have a sizable customer base to compete against local firms.
After gaining real-world experience, you will be able to turn it into a fully functioning competitive company.
Fitness coach
Individuals interested in health and fitness can begin by providing coaching services to interested parties. This can include weight training, bodybuilding, pilates, yoga, and anything else that can attract an audience.
Now, you don’t need anything to begin fitness coaching. However, obtaining a certification would help to establish trust. Then, you begin instructing online via video calls or social media sites.
However, you will need a significant investment and permits if you intend to open a brick-and-mortar fitness club or franchise. In such instances, starting with a business strategy to validate your startup concept is best.
Tutoring services
If you excel at a specific area or enjoy teaching, tutoring could be the ideal business opportunity for you. As a tutor, you can assist other students who are suffering with a specific subject by sharing your knowledge and skills with them.
You can select your own hours and pricing, and you can work with students individually or in small groups. Tutoring is an excellent business opportunity for Nigerian students since it allows them to make a difference while still earning money.
Tutoring allows you to use your experience to provide personalised help to students who want to improve their grades. With your assistance, struggling students can gain confidence and achieve academically while you make money.
Handmade crafts
If you have a talent for creating and creativity, turning your hobby into a business by selling homemade items may be both rewarding and profitable. Handmade crafts are appealing to individuals looking for personalised and distinctive things. Choose a craft that matches your interests and skills, such as jewellery making, pottery, or knitting.
Create a range of objects to demonstrate your craftsmanship. Create an online store using Instagram, Facebook or Jiji. Take high-quality images highlighting your creations’ intricacy, and use social media and students at school to attract potential consumers.
Starting a side hustle is not only an extra source of income for a student but might also be the way to set you up for postgraduate life.
