Knowing how to use these best mobile apps for side hustles in Nigeria will improve your productivity and income.
Having a side hustle has become a common way to boost income and achieve financial independence in Nigeria. Many people now take on extra jobs or small businesses in addition to their main work to cope with the rising cost of living.
As a 9-to-5 jobber or a small business owner, having a side hustle offers an opportunity to increase your earnings while exploring new interests. Side hustles can be more than just a source of extra cash; they can be pathways to develop new skills, gain independence, and create a backup plan in case of job loss.
That being said, let’s quickly run through the benefits of having side hustles in Nigeria before we discuss the best mobile apps to enhance productivity:
Extra Income
A side hustle provides an additional source of earnings, helping you cover bills, save, or invest in your future. With rising inflation and unexpected expenses, having that extra stream of income can ease financial burdens and help you reach your financial goals more quickly.
The extra money makes a significant difference either in everyday needs or in long-term plans
Skill Enhancement
Side hustles allow you to develop or sharpen skills that might not be fully utilized in your main job. Are you learning digital marketing, fashion design, or content creation, these new skills can boost your career prospects or even help you pivot to a new industry.
The experience gained from managing a side hustle makes you more versatile and adaptable in the ever-changing job market.
Financial Security
Relying on a single source of income can be risky, especially in an unstable economy. A side hustle offers you financial security by creating multiple streams of income, reducing the stress that comes with job insecurity.
Even if you lose your primary job, the income from your side hustle can help keep you afloat until you find another opportunity.
Flexibility
Most side hustles allow for flexible working hours, giving you the freedom to work during your spare time without affecting your main job.
This flexibility also extends to location, as many side gigs, especially in the digital space, can be done from home. This makes it easier to balance personal, professional, and financial commitments.
Entrepreneurship
Side hustles often serve as a stepping stone to full entrepreneurship. What may start as a small side project can evolve into a thriving business over time.
Running a side hustle teaches you essential business skills like time management, customer service, and marketing, which could eventually lead you to transition into becoming your own boss with a full-fledged business venture.
Necessary Skills to Make Money on the Side
In case you are wondering what skills are needed to make money as a side hustle, here are seven (7) highly profitable skills to put you right:
Freelancing
Offering your skills on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr allows you to work on projects that match your expertise. Whether it’s writing, graphic design, or programming, freelancing gives you the flexibility to choose your clients and set your rates, enabling you to manage your time effectively while earning extra income.
Digital Marketing
Businesses need skilled marketers to enhance their online presence. Mastering skills such as SEO, social media management, and email marketing can make you invaluable. You can either freelance or consult for companies, helping them attract customers and increase sales, all while building your portfolio.
Tutoring or Coaching
If you excel in a particular subject or skill, tutoring can be a rewarding way to earn money. Platforms like Wyzant connect you with students seeking help. You can set your rates, choose your subjects, and work flexible hours. This not only provides extra income but also allows you to share your knowledge and passion with others.
Selling Handmade Goods
For those with a creative flair, platforms like Etsy allow you to sell handmade crafts, art, or unique products. Understanding the market and effective marketing strategies can help you reach potential customers. By turning a hobby into a business, you can enjoy the creative process while generating income.
Web Development
As businesses increasingly move online, web development skills are in high demand. Learning languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript can enable you to build websites for clients or create your own projects. This skill can lead to freelance opportunities or even part-time positions, providing a solid income stream.
Photography
If you have a talent for capturing images, photography can be a lucrative side hustle. You can offer services for events, portraits, or product photography. Additionally, selling your photos on stock photography websites can provide passive income. Investing in good equipment and building a portfolio will help you attract clients.
Virtual Assistance
Many businesses and entrepreneurs require administrative support but don’t need a full-time employee. As a virtual assistant, you can provide services such as email management, scheduling, and social media handling. This role allows you to work remotely and set your own hours, making it an ideal side gig for those with organizational skills.
7 Best Mobile Apps for Profitable Side Hustles in Nigeria
1. YouTube (Content Creation)
YouTube remains one of the top platforms for content creators. With over 2 billion monthly users, it offers vast opportunities for monetization through ads, memberships, and sponsorships. Successful YouTubers can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000+ per month, depending on their niche and viewership.
2. Upwork (Freelancing)
Upwork is a leading freelancing platform connecting businesses with skilled professionals. It boasts over 12 million registered freelancers and 5 million clients. Freelancers can earn between $20 to $100+ per hour, based on their expertise, making it an excellent option for those looking to leverage their skills.
3. Fiverr (Freelancing)
Fiverr is known for its diverse range of services offered at various price points, starting at $5. With millions of users, freelancers can showcase their talents in graphic design, writing, programming, and more. Top sellers on Fiverr can earn upwards of $10,000 monthly, depending on demand and service quality.
4. Udemy (Tutoring, Coaching)
Udemy is an online learning platform that allows instructors to create and sell courses. With over 54 million students and 204,000 courses, instructors can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on course popularity and marketing efforts.
5. Twitter (Ad Revenue)
Twitter has 450 million monthly active users, offering a unique platform for content creators and marketers. By building a strong following, users can monetize their accounts through sponsored tweets and partnerships. Successful Twitter accounts can earn from $500 to $5,000+ monthly, depending on engagement and follower count.
6. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the premier platform for professionals, with over 900 million users. It’s ideal for freelancers and consultants to network and find clients. By optimizing profiles and engaging in relevant groups, users can attract lucrative opportunities, with some freelancers reporting earnings of $5,000+ per project.
7. Amazon KDP (Self-Publishing)
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) allows authors to self-publish their work. With millions of readers worldwide, successful authors can earn royalties ranging from 35% to 70% per sale. Some authors make over $1,000 monthly by marketing their books effectively and tapping into niche markets.
What to Know When Choosing Apps for Side Hustles
When choosing apps for side hustles, it’s essential to select platforms that suit your needs and align with your skills. With countless apps available, it can be overwhelming to find the right one, but focusing on a few key factors can simplify the decision.
The right app can help you manage your time, connect with clients, and ensure you’re compensated fairly for your efforts. Here are some things to consider when choosing apps for your side hustle:
1. User-Friendly Interface
Choose an app that is easy to navigate and intuitive, so you can focus on your side hustle without unnecessary complications or a steep learning curve.
2. Payment Structure
Understand how you’ll be paid, including fees, payout schedules, and withdrawal options, to avoid surprises and ensure timely compensation.
3. Reputation and Reviews
Check user reviews, ratings, and app store rankings to gauge the app’s reliability and trustworthiness for side hustle opportunities.
4. Customer Support
Opt for apps that offer responsive and accessible support in case technical issues or payment problems arise, ensuring your side hustle runs smoothly.
Concluding Thoughts
Working with the wrong tool can make a very easy task difficult. Therefore, making use of the best mobile apps for side hustles in Nigeria can help you increase your earnings and reduce stress.