Top 5 Side hustles for Nigerian students that can grow into full-time careers

Let’s be honest, being a student in Nigeria comes with its own version of shege that you have to survive through. From the ASUU strikes, to the never-ending assignments and classes, to the very terrible power supply etc. The crazy part in all of this is that you’re expected to graduate with a first class, have three internships, and somehow still find time to “face your hustle.”

But what if I told you that that small hustle you start in your dorm room could actually become your full-time career, after school?

Here are 5 side hustles that can grow into full time careers later on:

1.      Fashion Designing:

The truth is that a fashion designer would always be relevant, not only in the society but also and especially in a campus environment. Where one person needs to sharpaly adjust/slim fit their jeans by 7am before their class by 7: 30am, a fashion designer would come in handy, believe me. You can always develop yourself so much that it’d become your full blown job. Who knows, you might be the next Veekee James or Mai Atafo.

2.      Freelancing (Writing, Graphic Design, Copywriting, etc.):

Do you have a way with words or an eye for design? Start freelancing. With platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and even LinkedIn, your laptop and data subscription can become a monthly income stream. Start with gigs for friends or student organizations and build a portfolio and before you know it, you'll be earning in dollars.

3.      Content Creation / Influencing:

As long as you can set up a ring light and dance or smile in front of a camera, then content creation just might be your thing. Don’t worry, years of consistency would polish your craft overtime. Believe me, you won’t be the first person to run it, nor the last. Most influencers and skit makers started from daily Uni vlogs, and this was where their first fans came from.

4.      Food Business:

One of the easiest side hustles to venture into is to become a food vendor. Everyone would always eat. You can start by selling chinchin or doughnuts to your tired classmates after roaming around the entire campus for just 2 classes. You can subsequently grow your business into selling food. Before you know it, you’ll become the name on everyone’s mouth, and soon enough, probably develop your own spot on the campus.

5.      Writing CVs and career management:

Most of these career management start-ups started from student’s who used to help their friends edit cover letters, find internships and even create CVs. If you know your onions when it comes to these things, and you’re tired of being broke, why not monetize your services? You’d be surprised at how many people are willing to pay for these things.

Starting a side hustle as a student isn’t just about cashing out. It’s about building something that can outlive your degree. Many Nigerian graduates today are full-time CEOs of businesses that started during 8 a.m. SER classes.