With the inflation rate in the economy, side hustles have become the go-to for many looking to supplement their income. While popular options like freelancing, online tutoring, and e-commerce stores are well-known, there are plenty of unique, lesser-known online gigs that remain under the radar. Here are seven online side hustles no one is talking about, but you should consider.
1. Dropshipping for African Crafts
Dropshipping is not a new concept, but it’s often focused on Western markets. A niche opportunity lies in selling African crafts and products to a global audience without holding inventory. As a drop shipper, you can partner with local artisans and use platforms like Shopify or Etsy to market these products to international customers. The focus on African art, fashion, and home decor gives you a unique edge in the market.
2. Virtual Customer Support for Global Companies
As remote work continues to grow, global companies are increasingly outsourcing customer support roles. Nigerians with good communication skills and internet access can offer virtual customer support to businesses worldwide. You don’t need an advanced degree—just professionalism and the ability to troubleshoot common customer issues.
3. Social Media Management for Local SMEs
Social media is a powerful tool for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, but many business owners struggle to maintain an active online presence. If you have a knack for content creation and marketing, offering social media management services can be a highly profitable side hustle. From Instagram and Twitter to Facebook and TikTok, there’s a growing demand for experts who can help businesses increase visibility and engagement.
4. Online Language Tutor for Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo
The demand for learning African languages is rising globally, and Nigerians have a unique advantage. As an online language tutor, you can teach Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, or any other Nigerian language to students around the world via platforms like Preply or Italki. This side hustle requires only a computer, a reliable internet connection, and a passion for teaching your native language.
5. Affiliate Marketing for Nigerian Products
Affiliate marketing involves earning commissions by promoting products and services through referral links. Many Nigerians have already embraced affiliate marketing for international brands, but there’s untapped potential in promoting Nigerian products. Whether it’s fashion, tech gadgets, or even local food products, you can partner with Nigerian businesses to earn commissions while helping them reach a broader audience.
6. Virtual Assistant for Nigerian Entrepreneurs
As more Nigerians start businesses, many need help with administrative tasks like email management, scheduling, data entry, and bookkeeping. Being a virtual assistant allows you to work remotely while providing valuable support to business owners. This side hustle is flexible, and the demand for virtual assistants is increasing as the startup ecosystem grows.
7. Podcast Editing and Production
Podcasts are growing in popularity across Nigeria, but many aspiring podcasters lack the technical skills to produce high-quality episodes. If you’re familiar with audio editing software and have an ear for detail, you can offer podcast editing and production services. This side hustle requires minimal startup costs but can be highly profitable as more Nigerians turn to podcasts for news, entertainment, and education.
While these online side hustles may not yet be mainstream in Nigeria, they offer unique opportunities for those willing to think outside the box.