Introduction
Let’s be honest: Nigeria is hard right now. Fuel is high. Food is expensive. Even vibes are now expensive. Even data has become very expensive. Every day feels like a new episode of “How much is garri today?”
But while things are tough, some Nigerians are still earning—and not just surviving, but thriving. How? No be by luck. It’s by learning money-making skills that work online and globally.
You don’t need a PhD, a rich uncle, or a visa. All you need is a smartphone, data, and the will to start. In this post, we’ll show you 7 digital skills that Nigerians are using in 2025 to earn—even in the middle of this wahala economy.
If you’re tired of saying “God when?” and ready to say “Send your email, let me invoice you,” keep reading.
This might be the surest update you will get this year.
1. Freelance Writing – Get Paid to Type What You Know
If you can write decent English (no need for Shakespeare), you can start freelance writing today. And if you have sense and know how to use AI (like a wise man, not like a mumu), then you can even employ AI to help you.
What It Is:
Writing articles, blog posts, emails, ghostwriting stories, or website content for clients around the world.
Income Potential:
₦50k–₦500k/month or more, depending on how many clients you take.
Where to Start:
Create a free account on Upwork or Fiverr
Offer blog posts or social media captions
2. Mini Importation + E-commerce – Buy Low, Sell Smart
You don’t need to go to China. You don’t need a warehouse or millions of Naira. Some Nigerians are importing products from China (or buying in Lagos) and reselling on WhatsApp, Instagram, or Jumia.
What It Is:
Buy trendy products (e.g., power banks, perfumes, skincare) and sell with mark-up online.
Income Potential:
₦100k–₦900k+/month
Where to Start:
Learn from EmpowerBox’s Mini Importation Crash Course
Use apps like AliExpress, 1688, and Paystack
Market via WhatsApp status and Instagram Reels
3. Social Media Management – Post for Pay
Every business wants to be online, but most don’t know how or even have the time. That’s where you come in. But you don’t wait for them to come to you. You must go out online (and even offline) and market yourself to these businesses.
What It Is:
Helping brands manage their social media pages, create content, and grow followers.
Income Potential:
₦80k–₦350k per client/month
Where to Start:
Learn Canva, captions, and hashtag strategy
Offer services to small businesses
4. Canva Design – Make Flyers, Earn Dollars
You don’t need Photoshop anymore. Canva is your plug. If you can design flyers, logos, ebooks, or Instagram posts, people will pay. This is a fact. People will pay for designs, and others will pay to learn.
What It Is:
Using Canva to design branded visuals for businesses or content creators.
Income Potential:
₦50k–₦200k/month
Where to Start:
Practice on Canva.com (it’s free!)
Build a portfolio with sample designs
Promote on WhatsApp or Fiverr
5. Affiliate Marketing – Sell & Earn Commission
You don’t need your own product to start making money in this country. Just help people sell theirs and collect your share. It’s that simple.
What It Is:
Promoting products or services and earning a percentage when people buy through your link.
Income Potential:
₦50k–₦500k/month (depending on your hustle and network)
Where to Start:
Join affiliate platforms (Expertnaire, Stakecut, EmpowerBox Affiliate Program)
Use TikTok, WhatsApp, or blogs to promote
6. WhatsApp Sales Funnel – Turn Your Status Into a Shop
WhatsApp isn’t just for gossip and broadcast messages. People are using it to run businesses, close sales, and build customer lists. So you need to intentionally build your WhatsApp and position for business.
What It Is:
Selling products or services using WhatsApp automation, broadcast lists, and daily content. And also selling advert space on your status if you have thousands of status views.
Income Potential:
₦20k–₦300k+/month
Where to Start:
Create a free business WhatsApp
Learn simple funnel techniques from EmpowerBox
Promote digital products (courses, ebooks, templates)
7. TikTok Content Creation – From Vibes to Income
TikTok isn’t just for dancing anymore. It’s now a legit tool for marketing, affiliate sales, and brand deals. I go lie for you?
What It Is:
Creating short videos to entertain, educate, or promote products/services.
Income Potential:
₦10k–₦500k/month via ads, partnerships, affiliate sales
Where to Start:
Pick a niche (comedy, motivation, beauty, business tips)
Post 3–5 times a week
Where to Learn (Even If You’re Broke)
You don’t have to spend ₦500k to gain skills. Here’s how to start smart:
EmpowerBox Learning – Free + premium courses in digital skills, freelancing, business
YouTube tutorials (but be selective!)
WhatsApp community learning groups
Intern or volunteer for small brands to gain experience
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Final Thoughts: Nigeria Is Tough—But You Can Still Win
Sapa is real, but its headquarters isn’t your place. It’s a national matter. That’s why you don’t have to remain stuck.
Instead of complaining, start learning.
Instead of scrolling, start selling.
Instead of waiting, start working.
You don’t need to be the smartest or richest—just willing to learn and consistent with action. Even in 2025, people are still making money online from their phone. Why not you?
Action Steps:
Pick 1 skill from this list
Enroll in a free EmpowerBox course
Start posting your journey and offering your service
Nigeria is hard—but you? You’re harder.