Photo caption: Cooking gas burners for caterers
The Nigerian economy currently faces numerous challenges, from inflation and unemployment to rising living costs. Many Nigerians are turning to side hustles, part-time jobs or small businesses done alongside their main jobs to create extra income and build financial security. TEMITOPE AINA highlights practical steps to cope with economic uncertainties and pursue a side hustle
Common side hustles
Common side hustle ideas in Nigeria span a wide range of industries and skills, offering numerous opportunities for people to earn extra income. Many Nigerians are tapping into online freelancing roles such as writing, graphic design, and programming, which require minimal startup costs and can be done remotely. Digital marketing and social media management have also become popular as businesses seek to grow their online presence. Traditional trades like food vending, catering, hairdressing, beauty services, tailoring, and fashion design continue to thrive, especially in local communities. Agriculture and agro-processing remain vital sectors, providing both food and income for many. Others explore event planning and decoration, which caters for the country’s vibrant social culture. Selling products through social media platforms or online marketplaces like Jumia offers an accessible way to reach customers nationwide. Tutoring and coaching are also common, providing educational support outside formal classrooms. Finally, ride-hailing and delivery services such as Uber, Bolt, and Jumia Food have opened up flexible earning avenues for many Nigerians, especially in urban areas. Together, these diverse side hustles reflect the creativity and resilience of Nigerians in generating additional income streams.
Side hustles gaining traction in Nigeria
In Nigeria today, popular side hustles include online businesses such as drop shipping and e-commerce, creative fields like photography and content creation, services such as event planning and catering, and traditional trades like tailoring and hairdressing. Ride-hailing and delivery services have also grown due to rising demand in urban centres. The beauty of side hustles is their diversity and accessibility—you can start with what you have and build from there. Digital platforms have democratised access to markets, allowing even small-scale sellers to reach a large audience.
Why side hustles matter
Side hustles are more than just extra income. They offer a way to build resilience amid economic uncertainties like inflation and unemployment. Having multiple income streams provides financial security and opens doors to entrepreneurship. For many, side hustles become launching pads for larger businesses that create jobs and stimulate local economies. The Nigerian government and private sector have recognised this, with initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses through grants, training, and access to finance. Embracing side hustles is therefore not only smart for individuals but vital for national development.
Here are practical steps to help you discover your strengths and identify which side hustles are the best fit for you.
Discover your unique strengths and interests
Starting a side hustle is a journey that begins with self-discovery. It’s important to identify your unique skills, talents, and passions because these will be the foundation of your business. Nigerians have a wealth of diverse skills, from craftsmanship and tailoring to digital skills like content creation and programming.
Also, ask yourself what you love doing and what you’re good at. When you combine passion with ability, you create a strong motivation that will keep you going through challenges. For example, if you enjoy cooking and have a knack for making delicious meals, food vending or catering could be a profitable side hustle. If you’re tech-savvy, freelancing in graphic design or digital marketing might be more suitable. The key is to find an area that excites you so that working on it feels less like a chore and more like a purpose.
Understand your target market thoroughly
Once you’ve identified your skills and business ideas, the next critical step is to understand who your customers are. Nigeria’s population is vast and diverse, so market needs can vary widely depending on location, age group, income level, and culture. Take time to research what people want and are willing to pay for. This could be done through surveys, casual conversations, or even social media polls. For instance, urban youths might crave trendy fashion accessories or fast food, while rural communities may need affordable farming tools or basic healthcare products. It’s also essential to understand your competition. See what others in your niche are offering and how you can differentiate yourself. Offering better quality, more affordable prices, or unique products can give you a competitive edge. A deep understanding of your market ensures that your side hustle solves real problems and attracts loyal customers.
Test your idea with a small launch
Many side hustlers make the mistake of investing a lot upfront without validating if their product or service actually sells. The smart way is to start small and test your concept. This could be as simple as selling to family and friends or launching on a limited scale in your neighbourhood. Collect feedback and use it to improve your offering. For example, if you want to start a clothing line, begin with a small batch and listen carefully to customers’ opinions on design, fabric, and pricing. The testing phase helps you avoid wasteful spending and makes your business stronger from the start. It also gives you the confidence to scale up once you’re sure there’s demand.
Master your time management
Side hustling requires balancing multiple responsibilities, especially if you already have a full-time job or are in school. Time is one of your most valuable resources, and how you manage it can make or break your success. Create a realistic schedule that allocates specific hours for your hustle without compromising your main obligations. Consistency is more important than long hours. For example, dedicating two hours every evening to your side hustle can accumulate significant progress over weeks and months. Use tools like calendars, planners, or apps on your phone to organise tasks and deadlines. Don’t forget to include time for rest to avoid burnout, which is common among side hustlers juggling multiple roles. Smart time management means working smarter, not necessarily harder.
Leverage technology for growth
Technology has transformed how side hustles operate, opening up opportunities that were once unimaginable. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok are powerful marketing tools that help you reach thousands of potential customers at little to no cost. For instance, posting appealing photos and videos of your products or services can attract followers who may turn into buyers. Beyond social media, online marketplaces such as Jumia and Konga allow you to sell goods to customers across Nigeria and even internationally. Mobile payment solutions like Paystack, Flutterwave, and Paga simplify transactions, making it easier for customers to pay you instantly and securely. Additionally, free online courses and tutorials help you sharpen skills like digital marketing, customer service, and financial management, which are crucial for growth. Embracing technology is no longer optional; it’s essential.
Keep a close eye on your finances
Financial discipline is at the heart of every successful side hustle. Many new entrepreneurs overlook the importance of tracking income and expenses, which can lead to poor decisions and losses. From the start, maintain detailed records of your sales, costs, and profits.
This will give you a clear picture of whether your business is viable and where you can cut costs or increase revenue. Simple tools like Excel spreadsheets or free accounting apps can help you stay organised even if you don’t have formal accounting training. It’s also wise to separate your business finances from your personal money by using dedicated bank accounts or wallets. Budgeting and reinvesting profits into your business, for example, buying better supplies or advertising, can accelerate growth. Lastly, set aside funds for taxes and emergencies, as these are often overlooked expenses that can catch hustlers off guard.
Prioritise customer service
In Nigeria, word of mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools, and excellent customer service can turn one-time buyers into lifelong clients. Always strive to deliver on your promises, whether it’s the quality of your product, the timeliness of delivery, or the clarity of communication. Respond promptly and courteously to customer enquiries and complaints. Showing genuine care and respect builds trust and loyalty, which are priceless in business. Simple gestures such as thanking customers, offering occasional discounts, or sending follow-up messages after purchase can create a positive experience that encourages repeat business. Remember, a happy customer is more likely to recommend you to friends and family, expanding your reach organically.
Be ready to adapt, innovate
The business landscape is constantly changing, and side hustlers must be flexible to survive and thrive. What works today might not work tomorrow, especially with shifting consumer tastes and economic conditions. Regularly seek feedback and be willing to adjust your product, service, or pricing as needed. Innovation doesn’t always mean inventing something new—it can be as simple as finding more efficient ways to operate or offering new features that customers want. Staying informed about market trends and continually learning from others in your industry keeps you competitive. Nigerian markets can be unpredictable, but adaptable entrepreneurs can turn challenges into opportunities.
Real stories to inspire
Many Nigerians have used side hustles as stepping stones to financial independence. Take Tunde, who started selling handmade jewellery online while working a full-time job. By engaging actively with customers on Instagram and offering unique designs, he grew his side hustle into a thriving business. Similarly, Fatima, a schoolteacher, began tutoring students in the evenings. Over time, she expanded to group classes and now runs an educational centre. These examples show that dedication, patience, and smart planning can turn small side gigs into sustainable sources of income. Their journeys remind us that with the right mindset, anyone can succeed regardless of background or resources.
Choose what suits your resources
Not all side hustles fit every person or situation. When deciding what to start, consider how much time, money, and effort you can realistically commit. Some side hustles, such as freelance writing or online tutoring, require little startup capital and can be done from home, making them suitable for students or full-time employees. Others, like trading or farming, might require more money and time but could offer higher returns. It’s also crucial to check any legal or regulatory requirements to avoid penalties. Your side hustle should fit into your life smoothly, not disrupt it.
Take the first step today
Starting a side hustle might seem overwhelming at first, but the key is to begin with small, manageable steps. Identify your strengths, learn about your market, start small, manage your time and finances carefully, leverage technology, and always keep customers happy. Be ready to adapt and keep learning. With patience and persistence, your side hustle can grow beyond your expectations and change your financial future. The important thing is to start now because the best time to plant a tree was years ago; the second-best time is today.
Culled from PUNCH
