Best Side Hustles in Nigeria You Can Start with Your Phone (2025 Edition)

Introduction

The digital age has changed how people earn a living in Nigeria. With just a smartphone, an internet connection, and creativity, you can start profitable side hustles that generate steady income. In 2025, Nigerians are increasingly turning to online platforms as the cost of living rises and traditional jobs become less secure.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I make money with just my phone in Nigeria?” — this post is for you. We’ll explore the best side hustles in Nigeria for 2025, how they work, and how to start without huge capital.

1. TikTok and YouTube Shorts Content Creation

Short-form video content is booming. Nigerians are earning big from TikTok and YouTube Shorts through brand sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and monetisation.

Startup Cost: Smartphone + internet bundle.
Earning Potential: ₦50,000 – ₦500,000 monthly.
How to Start: Pick a niche (comedy, lifestyle, education, motivation), create consistent content, and grow followers.

Pro Tip: Use trending hashtags, Nigerian pop culture, and music to go viral faster.

2. Freelancing on Fiverr and Upwork

If you have digital skills such as writing, graphic design, programming, or video editing, freelancing is one of the most sustainable side hustles.

Startup Cost: Zero (just your smartphone and internet).
Earning Potential: $100 – $1,000 monthly (₦120,000 – ₦1,200,000).
How to Start: Create a strong profile on Fiverr or Upwork, showcase samples, and apply to jobs.

Pro Tip: Nigerians with AI content creation, UI/UX, and video editing skills are in high demand in 2025.

3. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting other people’s products and earning commissions when people buy through your link. Platforms like Jumia KOL, Konga Affiliate, and Amazon Associates are popular.

Startup Cost: Free (smartphone + social media).
Earning Potential: ₦20,000 – ₦500,000 monthly.
How to Start: Share affiliate links on TikTok, YouTube, or WhatsApp groups.

Pro Tip: Focus on niches like fashion, gadgets, and beauty products, which Nigerians love buying online.

4. Social Media Management

Businesses in Nigeria are going digital and need skilled people to manage their Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (Twitter) accounts.

Startup Cost: Smartphone with social media apps.
Earning Potential: ₦30,000 – ₦200,000 per client monthly.
How to Start: Offer your services to small businesses, churches, NGOs, and startups.

Pro Tip: Showcase your skills by managing your own social media pages first.

5. Dropshipping and Mini Importation

With platforms like Shopify, WhatsApp Business, and Instagram Shops, Nigerians are selling products online without stocking inventory.

Startup Cost: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000.
Earning Potential: ₦100,000 – ₦500,000 monthly.
How to Start: Partner with suppliers (from China or local markets), list products online, and deliver on orders.

Pro Tip: Trending products in Nigeria for 2025 include wireless earbuds, beauty items, and health supplements.

6. Online Tutoring

If you are skilled in academics or specialised fields, online tutoring is in high demand in Nigeria. Parents and students are willing to pay for digital lessons.

Startup Cost: Smartphone + WhatsApp/Zoom.
Earning Potential: ₦20,000 – ₦200,000 monthly.
How to Start: Advertise your tutoring services on Facebook, Telegram, and WhatsApp.

Pro Tip: Subjects like Mathematics, Coding, and English are always in demand.

7. Podcasting and Audio Content

With cheap data and Spotify/Apple Podcasts now popular in Nigeria, podcasting is another income-generating side hustle.

Startup Cost: Smartphone + free podcasting app.
Earning Potential: ₦50,000 – ₦300,000 monthly.
How to Start: Create a podcast around trending Nigerian topics — politics, music, or motivation.

Pro Tip: Monetise with sponsorships, donations, and ads.

8. E-Book Writing and Self-Publishing

If you enjoy writing, you can publish e-books on Amazon Kindle or sell via Paystack/Flutterwave.

Startup Cost: Free (phone + writing app).
Earning Potential: ₦50,000 – ₦250,000 monthly.
How to Start: Write about Nigerian-focused topics (business, exams, culture).

Pro Tip: Nigerians love e-books on business ideas, self-improvement, and exam guides.

9. Stock Photography and Short Clips

Many Nigerians are selling their photos and video clips to stock websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Pexels.

Startup Cost: Smartphone camera.
Earning Potential: ₦20,000 – ₦200,000 monthly.
How to Start: Upload high-quality pictures of Nigerian culture, food, and lifestyle.

Pro Tip: Nigerians abroad often search for local images for projects.

10. Crypto & Forex Trading (Caution)

With the right knowledge, crypto and forex trading can be highly profitable. But it comes with risk, so proper training is essential.

Startup Cost: ₦20,000+.
Earning Potential: Unlimited but risky.
How to Start: Learn from trusted sources, practice on demo accounts before investing real money.

Pro Tip: Never invest money you cannot afford to lose.

Conclusion

In 2025, making money with your smartphone in Nigeria is not just possible — it’s easier than ever. From content creation to freelancing and affiliate marketing, these side hustles allow you to build financial independence without needing a huge investment.

Start with one hustle, stay consistent, and grow over time.

Are you ready to start your side hustle? :

At ENGRMKS & CO., we provide digital tools, website design, and online business support to help Nigerians succeed online.
Contact us today to launch your hustle the smart way!