In 2025, surviving on one income in Nigeria is like playing Jenga during an earthquake. It’s no longer just a “nice-to-have” – a side hustle is a necessity. From students to salary earners, many young Nigerians are turning passion and skill into serious cash, some even in dollars. But what are the most profitable and sustainable side hustles today?
Here’s a list of 5 top side hustles that are currently making young Nigerians rich, with real stats, stories, and spicy gist. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, consider this your call to action!
Crypto & Forex Trading – Digital Money Moves
“If you know how to read charts and control your emotions, crypto and forex can change your life.”
Cryptocurrency and forex trading are no longer reserved for tech bros in Lagos. They’ve become a national movement. Platforms like Binance, Quidax, and Paxful have empowered young Nigerians to tap into global finance from the comfort of their phones.
The Facts:
As of 2024, Nigeria has over 22 million crypto users, the largest crypto population in Africa.
Nigerian youth are also major players in forex, with Telegram and WhatsApp groups teaching strategy and live trading sessions.
Real-Life Example:
Tola Joseph-Fadele, a finance coach and trader, turned ₦50,000 into millions through consistent crypto investing and education
Skincare & Beauty Business, Glow That Pays
“Naija babes don’t play with skincare and savvy entrepreneurs are cashing in.”
From organic soaps to beard oils, young Nigerians are building homegrown beauty brands that compete with foreign products. Thanks to Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp marketing, a small batch can become a nationwide sensation in months.
The Facts:
Nigeria’s beauty and personal care market is valued at over $1 billion, growing annually due to demand for organic and black-skin-specific products.
The DIY skincare market is booming with thousands of Instagram vendors shipping across West Africa.
Real-Life Example:
Brands like SkinByZaron, Hegai & Esther, and Ajike Shea Centre all started as small ideas and are now major players.
Freelancing – Dollar Income, Naija Expenses
“Why earn in naira when you can invoice in dollars?”
Freelancing is arguably the most scalable hustle. With a skill and solid internet, you can earn big from clients across the globe. Young Nigerians are dominating platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, and LinkedIn in fields like:
- Copywriting
- Graphic & web design
- Virtual assistance
- Tech support & development
The Facts:
Nigeria is one of the top 10 countries in Africa for freelance earnings, according to Payoneer’s 2024 Global Freelancer Report.
The average skilled freelancer in Nigeria earns $500–$2,000 per month, far more than local entry-level salaries.
Real-Life Example:
Miracle Ijeh, a self-taught graphic designer, earns over $1,200/month remotely while living in Asaba.
Food Business – Because Naija Must Chop
“Everyone loves food. Now imagine getting paid because yours hits different.”
From small chops and pastries to gourmet meal prep, the food side hustle is a goldmine for young Nigerians. If you’ve got cooking skills and marketing sense, you’re just a few reels away from going viral.
The Facts:
Nigeria’s food delivery market is projected to surpass ₦1.2 trillion by 2026.
Over 40% of urban consumers now order food online, mainly through Instagram and WhatsApp.
Real-Life Example:
ChopBeta, started by a university graduate during ASUU strike, now serves 400+ orders weekly in Abuja.
Content Creation & Influencing – Soft Work, Big Bag
“Followers = fortune, and viral = valuable.”
With platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, young creatives are turning content into cash. Whether it’s dance, fashion, comedy, or lifestyle, influencers are securing brand deals, affiliate sales, and platform bonuses.
The Facts:
Influencer Marketing Hub reports that micro-influencers in Nigeria earn ₦50k–₦250k per post.
Macro creators and YouTubers make millions monthly through ads, sponsorships, and merch.
Real-Life Example:
Sofiyat “The Odditty”, a Nigerian TikToker, went from fun videos to brand deals with Tecno, Nivea, and more.
The Hustle Is Real but Rewarding
These side hustles are not just trends, they’re real-life income generators. In a country where opportunities can be limited, young Nigerians are creating their own lanes. Whether you’re already in the game or just getting started, now’s the time to build something on the side.
Have you started any of these hustles or planning to? Tell us in the comments! And if you’re already cashing out, your story might inspire someone else.
Want to learn how to launch your own side hustle this year? Stay tuned to EveryEvery we’ve got expert guides, startup stories, and community hacks dropping weekly.
