Side hustles are becoming more popular in Nigeria as the unemployment rate in the country gets worse. Even if you are employed, there are many reasons why having a side hustle is a wise decision. For many Nigerians, a side hustle is the early phase of entrepreneurship or self-employment. It also provides an extra source of income needed to cope with the challenges of underemployment and rising inflation. Furthermore, in the event of job loss, having a side hustle can save you from financial instability. Likewise, you can gain meaningful experience that will prepare you for a career transition or new job opportunities.
If you are considering starting a side hustle in Nigeria, this article provides 6 side hustle ideas you can explore. Before deciding on which to start, it is important you consider your skills, the need for the service or product you intend to provide, the location, the possibility of combining it with your other engagements and the potential for expansion.
6 Side Hustle You Can Start in Nigeria
These are selected side hustle ideas you can consider in Nigeria:
1. Tutoring
If you are an expert in any field or subject, you can venture into the growing business of private tutorials and make some money from your expertise. You can teach people what you know offline or online using different channels like YouTube, Google Classroom, Google Meet or Zoom. Just choose the most convenient platform for you and the learner. You may also register on various platforms dedicated to teaching skills. To succeed as an instructor, ensure you are committed to continuous learning and able to use the latest applications and technologies that boost efficiency.
2. Graphic Design
Many small businesses and entrepreneurs need graphic designers for product branding, advertisement, logo design or social media posts. However, they cannot afford to hire one. If you have a good knowledge of design principles and software like Illustrator, InDesign and Adobe Photoshop, you can start a side hustle in graphic design and earn extra income. Even if you are a beginner, doing graphic design as a side hustle can help you to improve and build your portfolio along the way. Creating a profile and portfolio of your work on Fiverr, Upwork or 99designs can help you build your client base.
3. Master of Ceremonies (MC)
Have you got a knack for public speaking and coordinating events? If so, you may want to consider doing the job of an MC as a side hustle. Doing the job of an MC requires the ability to speak comfortably in front of a large audience and entertain people. Network with event planners to begin a side hustle as an MC. A good way to kick-start this is to volunteer free service for friends and family members to gain some experience. Afterwards, you can charge lower fees and gradually establish yourself in the field.
4. Real Estate Agent
You can start a side hustle and earn extra income as a real estate agent in Nigeria. Real estate agents in Nigeria make money by networking with property owners and connecting them with those who need them. With the right strategy, you can market pieces of land, apartments or entire buildings to earn commissions as a real estate agent without committing a lot of time and money. There are a number of websites and applications where you can list and promote properties on behalf of their owners. Social media pages and groups are also good places to sell properties.
5. Become a Disc Jockey (DJ)
If you are a lover of music and party, you can earn extra income and have fun at the same time as a DJ. You will have to develop a good understanding of sound equipment and download DJ application on your laptop. Many of the musical equipment you will need can be rented. Like an MC, you will need to build relationships with event planners. Of course, event planning is another side hustle you can consider.
6. Laundry
Entrepreneurs and professionals are busy people who are willing and capable of paying for laundry services. Many of them live in your community but you would never know how much they need your laundry service until you start and show you are reliable. Laundry service is one of the side hustles you can start and grow into a full-time business without spending much money. You may eventually invest in laundry supplies and equipment for washing, dry cleaning and ironing.
Boosting your earning potential
Side hustles can help you to cope with the rising cost of living in Nigeria by augmenting your salary. But, with the right business skills, you can expand what you start as a side hustle into a full-time business to achieve financial freedom and stability. Remember that a side hustle is just one of the different efforts that can increase your income. Taking relevant short courses can help you achieve this goal and more. You can increase your income by acquiring relevant skills and certificates that can strengthen your CV and open doors to better career opportunities. Enroling in business courses can also build your earning potential by enabling you to transition seamlessly to a more rewarding career while you acquire relevant experience with a side hustle. Explore our wide range of industry-tailored business courses and enrol to equip yourself with relevant business skills to advance your career or boost your business.
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