Why Lagos Youths are Turning to These 8 Side Hustles for Extra Income

With high costs, tight competition, and dreams that won’t fund themselves, Lagos Youths in 2025 are doing what they do best: finding smart, legitimate ways to make money.

Gone are the days of depending on just one stream of income; side hustles are now the real deal.

From tech gigs to hands-on services, here are 8 hustle moves that young Lagosians are jumping on right now and actually cashing out from.

1. Freelance Tech Skills (Design, Web Dev, UI/UX)

In 2025 and beyond, tech is king. From building websites to designing mobile apps or creating UI/UX mockups, many youths are making money by selling these in-demand skills on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and even locally through referrals.

 Tools: Canva, Figma, WordPress, GitHub
  Earning Potential: ₦150K–₦800K monthly (or more, with foreign clients)

2. Social Media Management

Every business wants to be seen, and Lagos youths are filling the gap. Whether it’s managing Instagram pages, running ads, or creating content calendars, smart young people are turning social media into a serious income stream.

 Bonus: You don’t need a degree, just results.
Common Clients: Small brands, influencers, local businesses

3. Mini Importation and Drop Shipping

With China’s increased flexibility in importation for Africans, platforms like Alibaba, Temu, and 1688 make it easier than ever to import affordable items, ranging from beauty products to accessories, and resell them on Instagram or WhatsApp.

 What’s Hot in 2025: Smartwatches, rechargeable fans, skincare tools
  Tip: Use payment platforms like Paystack for a smoother experience.

4. Online Tutoring / Exam Prep Coaching

Lagos students are always preparing for various exams, such as WAEC, JAMB, and IELTS. Youths with solid academic backgrounds are cashing in by teaching online via Zoom or Telegram, charging a fee per class.

 Popular Areas: English, Maths, Coding, IELTS
 Earning Tip: Offer free sessions to build trust, then scale.

5. Voice-Over Work and Podcasting

Do you have a clear voice and a good microphone? Brands, YouTubers, and even radio stations are looking for youthful voices. Some are also starting their own niche podcasts (e.g. Lagos dating life, hustle culture) and monetising through ads.

 Platforms: Voicy, Upwork, Anchor.fm
 Bonus: Requires minimal startup cost

6. Delivery and Errand Services

From food delivery to dispatching documents and groceries, logistics is booming. Some youths partner with apps like Gokada, Chowdeck, Glovo, to run personal errand services for others.

Tip: Reliability = repeat customers
Earning Range: ₦30K–₦150K/week, depending on demand

7. Home Cleaning and Setup Services

Post-renovation cleaning, Airbnb prep, or even helping people move are low-cost services in high demand in urban Lagos. With the right team and branding, it scales fast.

Target Areas: Lekki, Surulere, Ikeja
Tip: Build trust on Instagram with before/after photos

8. Selling Digital Products (eBooks, Canva Templates, Courses)

Digital products are gold right now. Whether it’s a ₦3,000 guide on “how to pass JAMB,” a Canva template for business owners, or an online course on skincare, Lagos youths are learning once and earning forever.

 Tools: Paystack Storefront, Gumroad, Selar
 Bonus: Passive income potential