Last updated, 20th May, 2025.

Making money in Nigeria has become more accessible than ever, thanks to the rise of digital platforms, broadband access(penetration rate of 41.3%), and remote opportunities that allow anyone with a smartphone and internet connection to earn a living.

Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone simply looking to boost your income, there is an easy way to make money online in Nigeria that suits your lifestyle. From freelance gigs and e-commerce to affiliate marketing and content creation, the options are vast and flexible.

If you’re wondering where to make money online in Nigeria, this guide covers 32 proven ways that are not only legitimate but also scalable. It will help you turn your hustle into a sustainable source of income in 2025.

How to make money online in Nigeria(2025)

1. Crypto trading 

Nigeria is a global frontrunner in cryptocurrency adoption, with buying and selling crypto thriving as an exciting hustle for many, with roughly 10.3% of the population(22 million) owning crypto.

Many Nigerians are seizing this opportunity to earn in a dynamic market. While it’s more than just buying low and selling high, savvy traders can navigate price swings, avoid scams, and adapt to evolving regulations.

What makes crypto trading appealing?

When inflation soars and banks feel more like barriers than gateways, it might be time to consider alternatives, and that’s where cryptocurrency comes in. 

Unlike traditional currencies, crypto like Bitcoin operates on a decentralized system, making it less vulnerable to local economic swings. In addition, transactions are fast and borderless, which is a big plus when the Naira’s value is shaky.

How to make money online in Nigeria as a crypto trader

The best place to get started is on peer-to-peer platforms like Paxful because it is relatively easy to buy Bitcoin with over 500 payment methods, such as bank transfers, PayPal, and, in some cases, cash deposits. 

What makes trading on Paxful great for beginners?

Paxful has a secure escrow service, holding the crypto until both parties confirm the trade. This reduces the chances of fraud when compared to informal trades.

There’s room to profit through arbitrage if you know how to read the market and monitor crypto prices and foreign exchange rates. Don’t treat it like a game of luck; it requires strategy, timing, and a solid grasp of risk.

Skill level: Medium; Speed and risks: It can be fast but also go south quickly, so research before diving in.

👉 Start here: Bitcoin For Beginners: A Guide for Early Traders

2. Crypto staking 

Think of staking as a way to earn passive income of between 5% and 20% by holding specific cryptocurrencies, like earning interest from a savings account, but with more risk.

Some of the popular staking coins include: Ethereum (ETH),  Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), and Tezos (XTZ). 

How to get started with crypto staking

You can stake through:

• Centralized exchanges: Binance, Coinbase, Kraken

(Note: Some of these platforms may be geo-restricted in Nigeria, so use a VPN or choose platforms with global access.)

• DeFi wallets and Apps: Trust Wallet, MetaMask, Lido, RocketPool, or native wallets like Yoroi (for Cardano).

Skill level: Medium; Speed: Slower but steadier, if you’re lucky

💡 Pro tip: Staking returns are not guaranteed. If the coin’s value drops while it’s staked, your “interest” might not cover the loss. Do your research before choosing what to stake on issues such as validator fees and other fundamentals.

👉 Start here: Ethereum Staking: Lock Up Your Coins and Earn Rewards

3. Affiliate marketing

 Affiliate marketing is one of the most accessible and scalable ways to earn passively online. Globally, it is a growing industry of $14 billion. Some popular affiliate programs in Nigeria include:

• Jumia
• Konga
• Expertnaire
•  Travelstart
•  Selar, 

International ones include Amazon Associates, Shopify, and travel platforms like Wakanow.

How to get into affiliate marketing

It is usually simple: you identify a niche and then promote someone else’s product or service using a unique link. When someone buys through your link, you earn a commission. Simple.

You’ll usually need a blog, YouTube channel, or strong social media with engaging content that helps people make good buying decisions.

Before you commit, do your own research by considering: reputation, payment structure, payment threshold, and product relevance. If you implement your strategy well, it can lead to consistent income. According to research by Authority Hacker, the average affiliate marketer earns $8,038 per month.

Skill level: Intermediate; Speed: Medium to slow, it builds over time.

💡Pro tip: Consider it a long game: build trust, share things you believe in, and the income follows.

4. Micro-investing apps in Nigeria

Not everyone has stacks of cash to throw into the stock market. That’s where micro-investing comes in. These apps let you invest small amounts, often automatically, toward long-term goals.

How to get started with micro-investing apps in Nigeria

• Try local apps like PiggyVest and Cowrywise to save and make gradual investments.
• For stock market access: Explore platforms like Bamboo, Trove, and Chaka—they let you invest in Nigerian and global markets with just a few clicks.

Skill level: Beginner to intermediate; Speed: Slow, but that’s kind of the point

💡Pro tip: This isn’t a get-rich-quick setup. It’s about slow, steady wealth building. Boring? Maybe. But boring is underrated when it comes to money.

5. Paid online surveys

It’s a simple and effective way to make money online in Nigeria without investment. Brands and researchers want your opinion and are willing to pay (a little) for it. Surveys usually ask about your habits, preferences, or reactions to products. Just be ready for some repetition and occasional screening out.

Where to get started with online surveys in Nigeria

Look into the following apps and online platforms:

• SagaPoll (Africa-focused and ISO-certified, if that matters)
•  Pawns.app
• Prolific (great for higher-quality academic surveys)
• Swagbucks (also offers games, videos, and more)
  

Skill level: Beginner; Speed: Slow

💡Pro-tip: Payment defers depending on your demographics and how much time you put in. Payouts may include PayPal, gift cards, and sometimes even crypto.

6. Give feedback on websites and apps.

Have you ever landed on a confusing website? Companies want to know their users’ pain points, and they’ll pay for honest feedback. 

These gigs usually involve testing a site or app for 10–20 minutes while speaking your thoughts aloud.

How to get started in Nigeria

Here are some great apps to consider in Nigeria:

•  UserTesting
• TryMyUI
• Userlytics (check if they’re taking testers from Nigeria and what payout methods they support)

Skill level: Beginner; Speed: Slow

7. Do micro-tasks

These are bite-sized jobs that feed into bigger projects. Think tagging images, checking facts, short transcriptions, or quick data entry. 

You won’t get rich, but the earnings can add up with volume.

Popular platforms to get started in Nigeria

• Toloka AI
• Clickworker

• Amazon Mechanical Turk (though registration from Nigeria can be hit or miss, it is best to check the current status)

Skill level: Beginner to intermediate; Speed: Slow

💡Tip: Focus on completing the most critical tasks first and consider designating specific time blocks for microtasks.

8. Paid browsing & Videos

Some apps reward you for browsing the web, watching videos, or even shopping. These are small perks, but if you’re online all the time anyway, why not?

How to get started in Nigeria

Consider the following platforms:

•  Qmee (pays for web searches and surveys)
• Swagbucks (broad rewards ecosystem)
• Survey Honey (offers cashback, check if Nigerian users qualify)

Skill level: Beginner to intermediate; Speed: slow.

💡Tip: Stack it with other gigs. On its own, it’s more pocket change than a paycheck.

 9. Play games for rewards.

Yes, really. Some apps offer gift cards or small cash incentives for playing mobile games. Sounds fun, and it is, but don’t expect a windfall.

Try these to get started in Nigeria.

• Mistplay (see what gift cards are available in Nigeria)
• Swagbucks Live and other game-related options
• Spin N Win MTN

 Skill level: Beginner; Speed: Slow. You must play the games to earn rewards.

💡Caution: Play-to-earn (P2E) crypto games exist, too, but they’re super volatile. Only dive in if you know the risks.

10. Traditional freelancing

Some clients will pay for what you know, whether you write blog posts, design logos, manage social media, or work as a virtual assistant.

How to get started

If you’re wondering how to start freelancing in Nigeria, platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, Guru, or even LinkedIn are especially useful for finding clients directly (often with better rates).

Some hot skills in demand right now include:

• SEO & digital marketing
• Content writing and copywriting
• Graphic design and video editing
• Web development
• Accounting and consulting
• Virtual assistance (yes, organized people get paid well!)

 Skill level: Intermediate to advanced; Speed: Slow, it takes time to build a profitable profile.

💡Tip: Not super easy at first. You’ll spend time pitching, tweaking your profile, and working for lower rates until you get a few good reviews. But once you’re in the groove, it can snowball.

11. AI-powered freelancing (New and growing)

 Here’s where things get interesting. If you’re already freelancing or just smart about tools, you can use AI to speed things up or offer new services. Think:

• Editing AI-generated content
• Creating AI prompts for businesses
• Setting up customer service chatbots
• Setting Up AI Solutions: Configure customer service chatbots or automate workflows using AI platforms.

 Skill level: Beginner to advanced, depending on the task at hand. 

💡 Tip: Start by experimenting with free AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Canva AI, or Zapier) to enhance your existing skills. Market yourself as an AI-savvy freelancer to stand out.

12. Online tutoring

If you’re great at a subject or just really good at explaining things, why not teach? There’s strong demand for online tutors, from school subjects like Math, English, and Science to language lessons or test prep (WAEC, JAMB, IELTS).

How to get started with online tutoring in Nigeria

Consider platforms like Tuteria and PrepClass NG, built for Nigerian tutors, while Preply and Chegg Tutors offer global reach.

Skill level: Intermediate to advanced; Speed: Slow, it takes time for students to trust a new tutor. 

💡Tip: Don’t sleep on niche skills: teaching music, coding basics, or digital literacy can all be valuable.

13. Translation and transcription

Are you good with languages or a fast, accurate typist? Translation and transcription are reliable remote options. You’ll convert audio into text or translate between languages.

How to get into translation and transcription in Nigeria

Sites like TranscribeMe, GoTranscript, and Rev (check if they accept Nigerian freelancers) are good places to start. Gengo is solid for translation.

Skill level: Beginner; Speed: Fast

💡Tip: Knowing local languages like Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo, not just English or French, can be a big plus here.

14. Voice-over work

Do you have a clear voice and a decent mic setup? Voice-over work might be for you. Consider ads, explainer videos, or audiobooks. You don’t need to sound like a radio host; you just need to be clear, expressive, and reliable.

How to get started

Check out Voices.com, Bodalgo, or ACX if you want to narrate audiobooks for Audible.

You’ll need a quiet place to record, a good mic (USB ones can be affordable and solid), and some audio editing know-how. It’s niche, but people do well here.

Skill level: Beginner to intermediate; Speed: Slow. You often have to complete a project to get paid.

15. App and software development

This one’s for the techies. If you can build websites, apps, or custom software, there’s serious money in it. 

How to get started

Freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal (which are harder to get into but higher-paying) are your best bets. Gun.io is great for developers, too.

💡Pro tip: You can use LinkedIn and referrals to connect with clients directly. This requires more work upfront, but there is less platform drama and better pay long-term.

Skill level: Advanced; Speed: Extremely slow

16. Remote tech and corporate jobs 

If freelancing is not your thing, you can still work remotely for a company, part-time or full-time. More Nigerians are landing remote customer support, tech, marketing, and operations roles.

How to get started 

Check LinkedIn, MyJobMag (for local listings), We Work Remotely, or Remote OK for openings.

Some in-demand roles:

• Data analyst
• Social media manager
• QA tester
• DevOps Engineer
• Sales or support agent

Skill level: Intermediate to advanced; Speed: Slow, it takes quite a lot of time to build a respectable profile.  

💡Tip: It can take time to land one, and competition’s real, but once you do, it’s a steady paycheck in foreign currency, which helps a lot.

17. Sell goods on online marketplaces.

Do you have items collecting dust or a source for products you can flip? You can list them on major Nigerian platforms and reach buyers quickly. 

How to get started selling goods online

Jumia and Konga are the go-to e-commerce giants here, while Jiji.ng works more like a digital classifieds board (great for local sales or used goods).

You don’t need a website or tech skills to start; you just need decent photos, honest descriptions, and a bit of customer service patience.

Skill level: Beginner to intermediate; Speed: Slow- you need time to build a decent seller profile. 

💡Pro tip: If you’re selling secondhand, start with Jiji. For new products, Jumia or Konga give better reach.

18. Dropshipping 

This is the “sell without storing” model. You set up an online store, pick products from a supplier (often via AliExpress or apps like Spocket), and when someone orders, the supplier ships directly to your customer.

You never see or touch the product, and that’s both a blessing and a challenge. You must stay on top of customer expectations, shipping delays, and supplier quality.

How to start dropshipping in Nigeria

Platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce help you build your store, or you can go local and sell through Jumia/Konga if they support drop shipping.

What to watch out for: Long delivery times and frustrated buyers. Start small, test products, and communicate clearly.

Skill level: Beginner; Speed: Fast, since no inventory is needed.

19. Sell your photos

If you are looking at how to make quick money in Nigeria and your phone or camera is packed with high-quality shots, especially of Nigerian culture, daily life, or nature, you might have something valuable. Businesses, content creators, and marketers always look for authentic stock photos.

How to sell your photos in Nigeria

Try uploading to sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Foap, or Getty Images.

It’s not fast money, you’ll need to build up a library of images and wait for downloads, but once they’re up, they can earn passively.

💡Pro tip: Niche photos (like Lagos street scenes or traditional events) stand out more than generic stock.

Skill level: Intermediate; Speed: Slow 

20. Sell notes or study materials.

Yes, your study notes might be worth something. If you’re good at organizing and presenting information clearly, other students may want to buy them, especially around exam season.

How to sell your study materials in Nigeria

Upload them to platforms like Stuvia or Studypool. Ensure your notes are original, tidy, and relevant to people’s studies.

Skill level: Beginner; Speed:  Fast, you are selling what you’ve already created.

💡Pro tip: This is not a fast track to wealth, but it’s one of those “get paid for what you already did” wins.

21. Sell your designs

 Got an eye for design? Whether digital templates, T-shirt graphics, or social media kits, you can turn your skills into sales. And thanks to print-on-demand platforms, you don’t need to print or ship anything yourself.

How to sell your designs in Nigeria

Locally, check out Printivo, a Nigerian platform that lets you upload designs for business cards, flyers, and more. Redbubble, Society6, or Etsy (for digital files and crafts) are solid bets for global audiences.

Skill level: Intermediate to advanced; Speed: It all depends on what you sell, whether slow or fast. 

💡Pro tip:  Once you upload your designs, they can sell repeatedly without extra effort.

22. Start a blog and monetize

 Do you have something you love talking about? Whether it’s personal finance, relationships, tech, or even cooking with local ingredients, blogging allows you to share your voice. It’s slow and steady, but people still read.

How to get started

You can start with WordPress.com for simplicity or WordPress.org if you want complete control (a bit more technical, but worth it). Blogger is another beginner-friendly option.

Once you’ve built up some traffic, you can earn money through ads (Google AdSense), affiliate links, sponsored posts, or selling digital products like eBooks or online courses.

💡Heads up: It takes time to grow an audience. Consistency wins here more than perfection.

Skill level: Beginner to intermediate; Speed: Slow; growing an audience takes time. 

23. Start a YouTube channel (Vlogging)

Nigeria has remarkable YouTubers such as Tayo Aina who have grown their influence beyond Nigeria.
If you’d rather talk than type, YouTube might be your thing, or you are just good on camera. From comedy skits, travel reviews, crypto commentary, unboxings, to makeup tutorials or serious tech reviews, there’s room for all kinds of creators.

How to get started

To make money, you’ll need to hit 1,000 subscribers and rack up 4,000 watch hours in a year to join the YouTube Partner Program. But even before that, you can earn through affiliate links, sponsorships, and merch sales.

💡Pro tip: Don’t obsess over fancy equipment, your phone and natural light can go a long way when starting.

Skill level: Beginner to advanced, depending on what you are going for; Speed: Slow, it will take time to grow your subscriber base.

24. Start a podcast

Consider audio if writing or video isn’t your vibe, but you have something to say. Podcasts let you deep-dive into topics you care about, from entrepreneurship and motivation to pop culture or faith.

How to start a podcast in Nigeria

Free platforms like Spotify for Podcasters, Buzzsprout, or Podbean make launching easy without tech headaches.

💡Tip: You can monetize with sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or listener donations via platforms like Patreon. Bonus: You can record in your pajamas.

Skill level:  Beginner to intermediate; Speed: Slow

25. Become a social media influencer.

Yes, it’s a buzzword. But if you’ve got something unique to say or a fun way of saying it, people will listen (and brands will eventually pay).

How to get started

Focus on a niche (fashion, skits, fitness, business tips, parenting, whatever speaks to you), stay consistent, and start small. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook are fair game.

Once you build a loyal following, you can monetize through brand deals, affiliate links, or by selling your merch or products.

💡Pro tip: It’s not about followers, it’s about engagement. A small, loyal audience often earns more than a huge but quiet one.

Skill level: Beginner; Speed: Slow 

26. Create and sell online courses.

 If you’re really good at something, teach it. Package your knowledge into a course that helps others level up.

How to start selling online courses in Nigeria

Sites like Udemy and Skillshare give you global reach. If you want more control (and to keep more profit), try Teachable or Selar.co, which is particularly popular in Nigeria for selling digital products.

💡Pro tip: You’ll need to invest some time upfront: outline your course, film the content, and handle marketing. But once it’s up, it can earn on autopilot.

Skill level: Intermediate to advanced; Speed: Slow 

27. Write and self-publish an eBook.

 Love to write? Got expertise in something specific? eBooks are still a solid play.

How to self-publish an eBook in Nigeria

With Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), you can self-publish and reach a global audience without needing a traditional publisher. Whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, guides, or personal stories, there’s a reader out there for nearly everything.

⚠️Caveat: Writing the book is only half the battle; marketing is the other half (maybe the harder).

Skill level:  Advanced;  Speed: Slow

28. Create and share your music.

 Nigeria’s music scene is booming, and the most-streamed musician in Africa, Burna Boy, comes from Nigeria.  Don’t wait for a record label if creative juice flows around you, as a musician, singer, or beatmaker. Share your music on Audiomack, Boomplay, Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube.

How to get started

Distributors like DistroKid or TuneCore will help you get your tracks on all the big platforms.

It’s not an overnight path to fame, but consistently promoting your work and building a loyal listener base can turn into serious income and opportunities.

Skill level: Beginner to advanced; Speed: Slow or fast, it all depends on the type of music you are going for. 

29. Delivery services

 Delivery gigs can be a solid side income if you have a bike, car, or even a strong sense of direction. Something always needs to be moved, whether food, groceries, or packages.

How to get started

Platforms like Kwik Delivery, Gokada, and Jumia Food offer app-based delivery systems. But do your homework and read recent app reviews to ensure smooth operation and reliable payments.

You’ll need: A motorcycle or car, a valid driver’s license, and a smartphone.
Skill level: Medium; Speed: Medium (depends on how many gigs are available)

30. Local task apps

Here’s a quirky one: get paid to complete simple tasks around your city. That might mean snapping photos of a store display, pretending to be a customer (hello, mystery shopping), or checking prices at a supermarket.

How to get started with local task apps

Apps like Field Agent and BeMyEye list these jobs, but be warned: task availability can vary greatly. Before banking on it, you’ll want to check whether they’re active in Nigeria.

You’ll need: A good eye, a smartphone, and a bit of time.
Skill level: Easy to medium; Speed: Medium, when tasks are available

31. Virtual medical scribe

This one’s for the detail-oriented folks. A virtual scribe listens in on doctor-patient conversations (recorded or live) and types up medical notes. It’s remote and pays decently if you’ve got the focus for it.

How to get started

Look into platforms like iScribes or similar services. Nigeria hiring may be limited, so you’ll want to check current openings and requirements.

You’ll need: Fast typing, strong English, and a good grasp of medical terminology.
Skill level: Medium; speed: Medium

32. Rent out what you own

Got a spare room gathering dust? A car that sits idle most of the week? An event space or camera gear? Turn those into income.

How to start renting

With platforms like Airbnb (for rooms) and local rental services (for cars or equipment), earning from things you own is easier than ever. Demand can fluctuate, but once it’s rolling, it becomes a nice passive stream.

What you’ll need: Something helpful that others want to borrow and a little patience with scheduling or renters.
Skill level: Easy to medium; Speed: Medium, it depends on what you’re offering and how well you market it.

Bottom line

Making money online in Nigeria is no longer a myth or a distant dream; it’s an honest and achievable goal for anyone willing to learn and take action. With the right skills, consistency, and the platforms shared in this guide, you can tap into multiple income streams and build financial freedom from the comfort of your home. Start small, stay focused, and remember: the digital world is full of opportunities—you just have to take the first step.

 

Important note: These materials are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. Cryptocurrency investments involve significant risks, including potential substantial financial loss, and we do not endorse specific investments, tokens, or projects. Always conduct your own research and consult qualified financial or legal professionals before investing, as Paxful disclaims liability for any losses arising from reliance on these materials to the fullest extent permitted by law.

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