Making money in Nigeria is no longer just about having a job. With rising prices and shrinking purchasing power, many Nigerians have realized one truth: one income stream is no longer enough.

Across the country—and even online—ordinary Nigerians are finding smart, legal ways to earn extra money and stay afloat. Not get-rich-quick schemes, but realistic options that work in today’s economy.

Here are 7 smart ways Nigerians made extra money in 2025.

1. Selling Products Through WhatsApp and Facebook

Social media has become a marketplace.

Many Nigerians now sell:

  • Food items
  • Clothes and thrift wear
  • Skincare products
  • Phones and accessories

WhatsApp status and Facebook groups are powerful tools. With good pictures, honest pricing, and consistency, people are turning chats into cash.

2. Freelancing and Online Services

More Nigerians are earning online by offering skills such as:

  • Writing and content creation
  • Graphics and video editing
  • Virtual assistance
  • Social media management

You don’t need to be an expert. Learning one simple skill and improving over time can open doors to dollar-paying opportunities.

3. Small Food Businesses

Food will always sell.

From home cooking to snacks and drinks, Nigerians are earning extra income by:

  • Selling food at offices and schools
  • Doing weekend food deliveries
  • Cooking on demand

Low capital, steady demand, and repeat customers make food businesses reliable.

4. Ride-Hailing and Delivery Services

Some Nigerians use:

  • Ride-hailing apps
  • Dispatch and delivery services
  • Personal bikes or vehicles for errands

Even part-time driving or delivery can help cover fuel, rent, or school fees.

5. Learning and Selling Simple Digital Skills

Many Nigerians are learning skills like:

  • Phone photography
  • Canva design
  • Video editing with mobile apps
  • Basic website setup

These skills are then offered to small businesses, churches, and content creators who need help but can’t afford big agencies.

6. Content Creation

From Facebook to TikTok and YouTube, Nigerians are creating content around:

  • Daily life
  • Comedy
  • Education
  • Motivation
  • Storytelling

While growth takes time, consistent content can eventually lead to monetisation, brand deals, and other opportunities.

7. Buying and Reselling Items

Some Nigerians buy items at lower prices and resell them at a profit:

  • Phones and gadgets
  • Farm produce
  • Thrift clothing
  • Household items

It requires patience, market knowledge, and honesty—but it works.

A Word of Caution

As income opportunities increase, so do scams.

Avoid:

  • “Guaranteed profit” schemes
  • Platforms that pressure you to recruit others
  • Investments you don’t understand

If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Final Thought

Making extra money in Nigeria is not about luck—it’s about adaptation. Nigerians are resilient, creative, and determined. With the right information and smart choices, survival can turn into progress.

One Love Naija — One Nigeria. One Voice. One Love.

Your Turn

👉 Which of these income ideas are you already doing—or planning to try in 2025? Share your thoughts.