6 PROFITABLE SIDE HUSTLES YOU CAN START IN NIGERIA WITH LESS THAN N50,000

Many people think starting a business in Nigeria requires millions of naira, but that’s not true. The reality is that you can build a profitable side hustle with just ₦50,000 or less. What matters most is picking the right idea, keeping costs low, and being consistent. Whether you’re a student, a 9–5 worker, or simply looking for extra income, there are smart hustles you can launch today without breaking the bank.

Here are six side hustles in Nigeria ranked from lowest risk to highest earning potential.

1. Laundry & Ironing Services (Low Risk, Easy Start)

This is one of the simplest hustles to start because you don’t need much equipment—just an iron, soap, detergent, and packaging bags. Many busy professionals will pay for the convenience.

• Start-up cost: ₦20,000–₦40,000.

• Profit potential: ₦2,000–₦7,000 per day.

Best for beginners who want something steady without much risk.

2. Food Side Hustles – Snacks & Drinks

Food sells everywhere, and demand never drops. From zobo and puff-puff to egg rolls and small chops, you can start small and grow.

• Start-up cost: ₦15,000–₦40,000.

• Profit potential: ₦3,000–₦10,000 daily.

Great for anyone who wants fast cash flow with low entry cost.

3. Perfume Oils & Body Care Products

Perfume oils are cheap to buy but can be sold at a huge markup. Customers love them because they last long and feel luxurious without the big price tag.

• Start-up cost: ₦20,000–₦40,000.

• Profit potential: Up to 100% profit margin.

This works well if you focus on branding and packaging.

4. Phone Accessories Resale

With almost every Nigerian owning a smartphone, accessories like chargers, cases, earphones, and screen guards move quickly.

• Start-up cost: ₦30,000–₦50,000.

• Profit potential: 30–70% per item.

Steady sales are possible if you position yourself in busy areas or sell online.

5. Thrift Clothing (Okrika Business)

Fashion is always in demand, and thrift (okrika) clothes give customers affordable options. You can start with a small bale and sell piece by piece.

• Start-up cost: ₦25,000–₦50,000.

• Profit potential: 50–150% profit per item.

Social media marketing makes this side hustle grow fast.

6. Freelancing – Highest Earning Potential

Freelancing is the most scalable side hustle on this list. With the right skills (writing, design, social media management, video editing, data entry), you can earn locally and internationally.

• Start-up cost: ₦20,000–₦40,000 (mostly for internet and tools).

• Profit potential: ₦40,000–₦400,000+ monthly.

The key is building your portfolio and marketing yourself on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and LinkedIn.

Side Hustles at a Glance

Side Hustle Start-Up Cost Profit Potential Risk Level Best For

Laundry & Ironing Services ₦20,000–₦40,000 ₦2,000–₦7,000 daily Low Beginners, students, stay-at-home

Food (Snacks & Drinks) ₦15,000–₦40,000 ₦3,000–₦10,000 daily Low–Medium Quick earners, anyone with cooking skills

Perfume Oils & Body Care ₦20,000–₦40,000 Up to 100% margin Medium Small-scale resellers

Phone Accessories Resale ₦30,000–₦50,000 30–70% per item Medium Tech-savvy hustlers

Thrift Clothing (Okrika) ₦25,000–₦50,000 50–150% per item Medium–High Fashion lovers, social sellers

Freelancing ₦20,000–₦40,000 ₦40,000–₦400,000+ monthly Medium–High Skilled workers, digital hustlers

Final Thoughts: Start Where You Are

Not all side hustles carry the same level of risk or reward. If you want something steady and low stress, start with laundry, food, or perfume oils. If you’re ready to scale and earn more, explore thrift fashion, phone accessories, or freelancing.

With less than ₦50,000, you can take the first step today. What matters most isn’t the amount of money you start with—it’s the consistency and effort you put into growing it.

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