Looking for some creative ways on how to make money as a student in Nigerian without sacrificing your performance or grades? Then take a seat, unwind, and read this article.
Let’s face it. For practically everything they need for school, including tuition, food, maintenance, and other expenses, some Nigerian students rely on their parents.
Nevertheless, there are also diligent undergraduates who earn a respectable living through side employment and other interests, which they utilize to pay for their education.
Even if juggling work and school might be challenging, you should still try your hand at some of these occupations as they can pay well at the end of the month and occasionally even every day!
You have the option of working offline (physically) or online as a student. Depending on your degree of seriousness, jobs or enterprises in any of these two categories can provide you a respectable living that you can utilize for other purposes.
Below are some of the best ways on how to make money as a student in Nigeria. These jobs can be done in any Nigerian university you may find yourself in.
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How to Make Money as a Student in Nigeria: 19 Profitable ways
1. Photocopy & Printing Business
Due to its high demand in many Nigerian institutions, photocopying and printing is currently the most common business on how to make money as a student in Nigeria.
Additionally, it is quite simple to get started and allows you to choose your own hours. Starting a photocopying and printing business requires relatively little money, a modest power generator, and a few devices (such as a printer and laptop).
You don’t need a store to start if you plan to enter the business while still a student. With so much traffic on campus, you can just squat anywhere and go on with your work without any problems.
You can also employ someone to do it for you (if you own a laptop and a printer) and you both can share the proceeds according to the agreement made when starting the partnership.
2. Data Reselling or Recharge Card Business
The practice of purchasing data in bulk from telecom providers and then gradually selling it to your clients—mostly students—at a price lower than the standard data plans offered by these providers is known as data reselling.
This business is highly lucrative for students wondering how to make money as a student in Nigeria, offering low startup costs and flexibility.
However, as you are aware, the recharge card industry consists of providing recharge vouchers to consumers who require a specific amount of money to recharge their phones.
3. Freelancing
One of the greatest ways on how to make money as a student in Nigerian is through freelancing. It is assisting individuals (sometimes referred to as customers) in completing a task or jobs within a predetermined time range in exchange for payment.
Freelancing has no minimum age limit, unlike the physical professions I stated before, therefore it’s a viable option for high school students and college applicants to earn money.
Prior to considering freelancing, you should have a highly sought-after expertise. You may earn money by offering freelance services to clients in the following areas: coding, WordPress development, graphic design, logo design, article writing, translation, virtual assistant,
You may work anywhere you want as long as there is electricity to power your devices if you are a freelancer. All you need is a decent laptop and a personal internet connection.
Because foreign freelance websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer pay in dollars and allow them to exchange these cash on the black market, the majority of Nigerian freelancers like them.
Additionally, you may look at various freelance websites in Nigeria on Google, since they will pay you in Naira and spare you the trouble of converting from other foreign currencies.
4. Blogging
One of the greatest internet careers on how to make money as a student in Nigerian is blogging.
You should be earning some money as your site grows if you can effectively run a weblog and generate excellent material.
You must specialize on a certain subject (sometimes called a niche) and provide your audience with excellent material if you want to succeed as a blogger in Nigeria.
Popular areas that might generate money in Nigeria include general knowledge, fashion, sports, food, health, technology news and recommendations, and more.
You may monetize your blog by applying for different programs like Google Adsense, Propeller Ads, and Media.net.
You can also opt to sell actual things on your site or use affiliate marketing to generate revenue.
5. Programming
You might want to think about this if you’re interested in technology or studying computer science or similar subjects.
Building and creating a computer program specifically to solve a problem is the art of programming.
There are several areas of programming where you may identify your area of expertise. These categories include embedded systems programming, game development, Android and iOS development, web design and development, and more.
Since computer programming is a relatively rare skill among Nigerian students, you have several choices for making money as a university student.
Finally, if you’re a tech enthusiast who wants to learn more about computers, one of the best ways on how to make money as a student in Nigeria is through programming.
Some ways in which you can make money as a programmer at the university include:
- Freelancing
- Create a mobile app or website and earn through ads
- Doing assignments and final year projects for computer science students
- Tutorials (online and offline)
- Physical jobs for clients e.t.c.
6. Organizing Paid Tutorials for Students
Since not all university students excel academically, tutoring is one of the greatest methods on how to make money as a student in Nigeria (for the smart ones).
You will need a nice location (a teaching hall) and students (typically first-year students) who may not be particularly academically strong to start this company.
To encourage more students to attend the tutorials, you may also give out free resources like textbooks. You have the option of billing your students on a daily or monthly basis for your tutoring services as a “tutorial master.”
7. Viewing Center (Showroom) Business
Football and other sports are popular among Nigerian students, particularly male students, who are always willing to pay a little fee to watch live games on the weekends and during the week.
As a result, one of the greatest ways on how to make money as a student in Nigeria is through the viewing center business.
Although this business is profitable, it is difficult to start since it needs money to buy equipment (such as decoders, TVs, and generators) and find a safe location.
Since many football fans are also gamblers, operating a watching facility (showroom) and sports betting company together is the most successful combination.
Note that running a full-time viewing center + bet9ja business will definitely distract you from studies unless you get a reliable individual or individuals who can help manage the place effectively while you are away.
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8. Hairdressing/Barbing
For students with the necessary talents, this kind of skill is highly popular. For both male and female students, the barbering/hairdressing industry is likewise quite profitable.
Among university female students, hairdressing is quite popular. If you’re talented and know how to do various hairstyles for students in school you’ll be generating some amount of money since practically every female student at the university makes their hair at intervals.
It is possible to combine this hairdressing company with other crafts like knitting, bead and bracelet making, cosmetics, Okirika (worn clothing and underwear), etc.
Barbing on the other hand mostly requires a place(shop) to stay as it is not as portable as the hairdressing business for females.
It is also lucrative and doesn’t require much capital/money to start – you can even start in your room if you live off-campus.
9. Photography
Professional photographers are needed in universities since students enjoy taking printed pictures of themselves when they tour the campus by going to events and other performances.
Even though a lot of people believe that photography is dead, we can assure you that it isn’t.
As a photographer, you may earn money by taking student passport photos, photographing well-attended college events, selling your images online, and many other methods.
To start a photography business at the university the major requirements are as follows
- A camera or a top-notch smartphone with a good camera
- Computer or laptop for editing your pictures
- Photo editing skills
- Photo printer
- A small place to stay so you’ll be noticed on campus.
10. Sell Past Question & Other Useful Booklets
It is also a fairly well-known business. To earn money, just prepare and print a booklet (typically an instructional booklet or handout) and give it to different handout dealers in your school so they may sell it for you.
Additionally, you may compile additional practice exams in different disciplines and offer them for sale to students via these vendors.
This company, Past Questions/Handouts, is for students who have mastered a certain topic and have the knowledge required to publish a handout so that other students may benefit from it when they purchase it.
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11. Sell Used Goods for Students
This entails assisting students in selling their old products within or even outside of the classroom. Devices such as computers, televisions, phones, and other devices are among the products you might offer for sale to students.
In most cases, you won’t have to assist the seller in selling it directly; all you have to do is connect the buyer and seller (kind of agent thing), and you’ll receive your own commission when the sale is completed.
Additionally, you may assist students in selling their goods on websites such as JiJi.ng and OLX, and you will receive a commission after the product has been sold and delivered to the customer.
12. Soaps & Disinfectants Production
Students with skills in producing soaps or disinfectants have a great opportunity to turn their talents into a profitable business within Nigerian universities.
By creating products like liquid soaps, powdered soaps, bar soaps, air fresheners, perfumes, or body lotions, you can meet the high demand for affordable, quality products on campus while earning a steady income.
One of the best aspects of this business is its flexibility—you can easily produce and sell these items from your dorm or any small workspace.
Additionally, you can expand your earnings by offering training sessions to other students who are eager to learn these valuable skills.
Many students are willing to pay to gain practical knowledge in soap and disinfectant production, providing you with an additional revenue stream.
This dual business model allows you to generate income while empowering others with skills that can serve them beyond their university years.
13. Event Planning
If you have experience and understand the secrets of planning events, you can turn this skill into a lucrative business while studying in a higher institution.
Event planning allows you to know how to make money as a student in Nigeria while doing what you love—organizing events, shows, or gatherings for others and getting paid for your expertise.
On campus, event planners are often in high demand but surprisingly rare, making it a profitable venture to pursue.
This business involves working with individuals or groups to plan birthday parties, shows, dinners, or even student association events. The clients are often the “big boys and girls” on campus who are willing to pay well for professional services.
With some free time and dedication, you can also learn and improve event planning skills if you are not already experienced.
This business offers great potential for income while building connections and gaining valuable organizational and communication skills.
14. Graphics Design
Do you know how to use graphic design programs like Canva, Photoshop, CorelDraw, and others? In that case, this is among the greatest strategies on how to make money as a student in Nigeria.
With just your laptop and an optional printer, you may launch this business and grow it over time.
Some of the most common design projects on campus for graphic designers involve printing banners and flyers, posters, cartoon images, yearbooks, and other designs that students like.
Additionally, you may join up on freelance websites such as Fiverr, Upwork, and PeoplePerHour and offer your graphic design abilities to a prospective customer.
Keep in mind that the majority of these sites are populated by really skilled graphic designers, so you must be knowledgeable about the field.
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15. Manicure and Pedicure Services
This is a profitable gender-based business for female students in Nigerian universities, driven by the high demand for nail care services.
Many female students enjoy having their fingernails and toenails brushed, polished, or fixed regularly, creating an excellent opportunity for those who possess this skill.
The business involves purchasing essential materials for fixing, polishing, and designing nails, such as nail polish, acrylics, brushes, and other tools.
By offering these services, you can build a loyal customer base of students who prefer affordable and accessible nail care on campus.
To maximize your earnings, you can combine this business with other beauty services like makeup artistry or hairdressing.
This adds variety to your offerings, attracts more clients, and increases your overall income. With creativity and dedication, this venture not only provides steady income but also helps you develop valuable skills in the beauty industry.
What businesses for students require low startup capital?
Many businesses for students require little to no startup capital, making them perfect for students who want to know how to make money as a student in Nigeria.
Service-based businesses, such as freelance writing, graphic design, or social media management, only require a laptop or smartphone and an internet connection.
Skills like soap making, hairstyling, nail art, and makeup services allow students to earn money with minimal investment in materials.
Reselling products like thrift clothes, accessories, or cosmetics can be done with little capital, as students can start with small stock and reinvest profits.
Dropshipping and print-on-demand businesses eliminate the need for inventory, allowing students to sell products online without upfront costs.
Tutoring is another profitable option, where students can teach academic subjects, language skills, or specialized knowledge like coding.
Additionally, digital content creation, such as blogging, YouTube, or affiliate marketing, requires consistency rather than large financial investment.
With creativity and dedication, students can successfully grow these businesses into sustainable income sources.
How can I grow my student business?
Growing a student business requires strategic planning, consistency, and smart marketing. First, focus on providing quality products or services to build a strong reputation. Satisfied customers will recommend your business to others, helping you expand through word-of-mouth.
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp to showcase your work, engage with potential customers, and attract more sales. Posting regularly and using eye-catching visuals can significantly boost your visibility.
Networking with fellow students and joining relevant groups can also help you gain more clients. Offer discounts, referral bonuses, or promotions to encourage repeat business and attract new customers.
Managing your finances wisely is crucial—reinvest profits into better equipment, materials, or advertising to scale up. If possible, automate tasks like order processing or scheduling services to save time.
FAQs
What are some profitable businesses for students in Nigeria?
Students can make money by offering services like soap production, event planning, nail care, hairdressing, or tutoring, and selling products like snacks, fashion items, or handmade crafts.
How can I balance running a business and studying?
Time management is key—prioritize your academics and schedule business activities during free periods or weekends.
What businesses require low startup capital?
Businesses like soap production, nail care, social media management, and reselling items (e.g., thrift clothes) need minimal initial investment.
Can I start a business with no experience?
Yes, start by learning a skill through free or affordable online resources, workshops, or by apprenticing with experienced individuals.
How can I grow my student business?
Use social media for promotion, provide excellent customer service, offer competitive pricing, and network with fellow students to attract more clients.
Conclusion
This article has been able to discuss several options on how to make money as a student in Nigerian.
These businesses cater to Nigerian students enrolled in the nation’s higher education institutions and might assist you in overcoming your financial constraints.
Do you have ideas for some of these businesses but lack the necessary expertise to launch them? Then, think about picking up these skills during your free time, the holidays, or the protracted ASUU strike months.
Spread the word to other students who might find this article interesting if it has answered your question on “how to make money as a student in Nigeria.”
