The internet has created countless opportunities for Nigerian students to earn money while studying. Whether you have digital skills or are willing to learn, there are various online businesses you can start with little to no capital. This article explores the best online businesses for Nigerian students in 2024, how to get started, and tips for success.

1. Freelancing

Freelancing is one of the best ways for students to make money online by offering services such as writing, graphic design, programming, and social media management.

How to Start Freelancing:

• Identify your skills (writing, coding, design, etc.).
• Create a profile on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour.
• Set competitive rates and build a portfolio.
• Market your services on social media.

✅ Tip: Start with low prices to attract clients, then increase your rates as you gain experience.

2. Blogging & Affiliate Marketing

Blogging can be a profitable business if done right. Nigerian students can write about education, entertainment, tech, or fashion and make money through ads and affiliate marketing.

Steps to Start a Blog:

• Choose a niche (e.g., tech, student life, fashion).
• Buy a domain and hosting (Use platforms like Hostinger, Namecheap, or Bluehost).
• Create and publish high-quality content.
• Apply for Google AdSense and join affiliate programs like Amazon, Jumia, or Konga Affiliates.

✅ Tip: Consistency and SEO optimization are key to growing a successful blog.

3. Social Media Management

Many businesses in Nigeria need help managing their social media accounts. Students can earn by offering services like content creation, scheduling posts, and running ads.

How to Get Started:

• Learn how platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter work.
• Use tools like Canva for graphics and Hootsuite for scheduling.
• Reach out to local businesses and offer your services.
• Charge a monthly fee for managing accounts.

✅ Tip: Showcase your work by growing your own social media page first.

4. Selling Digital Products

Selling digital products like eBooks, courses, or templates is a great way to make passive income as a student in Nigeria.

Digital Products You Can Sell:

• eBooks on academic success, self-improvement, or business.
• Online courses (e.g., graphic design, coding, or personal finance).
• Templates for resumes, CVs, or business plans.

✅ Tip: Use platforms like Gumroad, Selar, or Teachable to sell your digital products.

5. Print-on-Demand (POD) Business

Print-on-demand allows you to design and sell T-shirts, hoodies, and phone cases without holding inventory.

How to Start a POD Business:

• Use platforms like Printful or Teespring.
• Design unique prints using Canva or Adobe Illustrator.
• Promote your products on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
• Earn passive income from every sale.

✅ Tip: Focus on trending or niche designs for higher sales.

6. YouTube Content Creation

YouTube is a powerful platform for students who enjoy creating video content. You can monetize through AdSense, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

How to Start a YouTube Channel:

• Choose a niche (e.g., tech reviews, study tips, fashion, or vlogs).
• Use a smartphone and free editing apps like CapCut or iMovie.
• Optimize videos with SEO-friendly titles, tags, and descriptions.
• Stay consistent and engage with your audience.

✅ Tip: Create valuable content that solves problems or entertains viewers.

7. Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping allows you to sell products online without holding inventory. You only buy items from suppliers when you receive an order.

How to Start Dropshipping:

• Choose a profitable niche (electronics, fashion, home gadgets).
• Use platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Jumia Konga Stores.
• Find reliable suppliers on AliExpress or local wholesalers.
• Market your store using Facebook and Instagram ads.

✅ Tip: Offer great customer service to build trust and increase sales.

8. Online Tutoring

Students who are good at subjects like mathematics, physics, or English can make money by teaching online.

How to Start Online Tutoring:

• Join platforms like Superprof, TeachMe.ng, or PrepClass.
• Offer tutoring services via Zoom, WhatsApp, or Google Meet.
• Create and sell pre-recorded lessons on Udemy or Teachable.

✅ Tip: Focus on subjects with high demand, such as JAMB and WAEC preparation.

Conclusion

Starting an online business as a Nigerian student is one of the smartest ways to earn money while gaining valuable skills. Whether you choose freelancing, blogging, e-commerce, or YouTube, success depends on consistency and continuous learning.

🚀 Start today! Pick one online business, take action, and start making money as a student in Nigeria.

Starting a business as a university student in Kenya can be both exciting and challenging. Many students have great business ideas but struggle with legal requirements, financial resources, and balancing business with studies. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to launching a business while in university, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks and maximizing financial opportunities.

1. Identifying the Right Business Idea

Choosing the right business is crucial to your success. Consider businesses that:

• Require low capital investment.
• Are flexible enough to manage alongside studies.
• Have a ready market, especially among fellow students and online.
• Utilize digital platforms to minimize operational costs.

Business Ideas for Kenyan Students:

• Online Freelancing (Writing, Graphic Design, Coding)
• Dropshipping & Online Reselling
• Social Media Marketing & Management
• Event Planning for Campus Activities
• Agribusiness (Urban Farming, Poultry Keeping)
• Laundry Services & Printing Business

2. Registering Your Business Legally

Registering your business gives it credibility and ensures you comply with Kenyan regulations.

Steps to Register a Business in Kenya:

1. Choose a Business Name – Check for name availability via the eCitizen portal.
2. Register on eCitizen – Create an account and apply for a Business Name Registration (BNR).
3. Choose the Business Structure:
   • Sole Proprietorship (Ideal for small student businesses)
   • Partnership (If starting with friends)
   • Limited Company (For scaling businesses)
4. Apply for a KRA PIN – Required for tax purposes.
5. Obtain Required Licenses – Some businesses need county government approvals (e.g., food vending, beauty services).

✅ Tip: Business registration fees in Kenya start from Ksh 850 – Ksh 10,000, depending on the structure.

3. Finding Capital as a Student

Starting a business doesn’t always require huge capital. Here are ways to fund your venture:

Sources of Capital:

• Personal Savings – Save from allowances or side hustles.
• Government & Private Grants – e.g., Ajira Digital Program, Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF).
• Crowdfunding – Ask friends, family, or use platforms like M-Changa.
• Microloans – Apps like Tala, Branch, or business-friendly SACCO loans.
• Business Competitions – Join campus innovation and entrepreneurship contests.

4. Managing Business Finances

Many student businesses fail due to poor financial management. Follow these tips to stay on top:

Financial Management Tips:

• Open a Business Bank Account – Avoid mixing personal and business money.
• Track Expenses & Profits – Use apps like Zoho Books or simple Excel sheets.
• Reinvest Profits – Instead of spending everything, grow your business.
• Understand Tax Requirements – As a registered business, file taxes via iTax.

5. Balancing Business & Studies

Running a business while in school requires time management and discipline.

Time Management Strategies:

• Create a Schedule – Dedicate specific hours for business tasks.
• Automate Tasks – Use social media scheduling tools and online payment systems.
• Delegate When Possible – Hire help for tasks like deliveries or bookkeeping.
• Prioritize Academics – Don’t let business affect your studies.

Conclusion

Starting a business as a student in Kenya is achievable with proper planning and execution. By choosing the right business, following legal requirements, securing funding, and managing time effectively, you can build a successful venture while still in school. The experience gained will be valuable for your future career or entrepreneurial journey.

🚀 Take action today! Identify a business idea, register your business, and start making money while in university!

With the rising cost of living and academic expenses, many university students in Kenya are looking for ways to earn extra income. A side hustle not only provides financial independence but also helps students gain entrepreneurial skills. Here are five profitable side hustles that university students in Kenya can start with minimal capital.

1. Freelancing (Writing, Graphic Design, and Programming)

Freelancing is one of the easiest and most flexible side hustles for students. With a laptop and an internet connection, students can offer services like content writing, graphic design, and programming.

How to Get Started:

• Sign up on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.
• Build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills.
• Start with competitive pricing and gradually increase rates as you gain experience.

Potential Earnings:

• Ksh 5,000 – 50,000+ per month, depending on skill level and clients.

2. Tutoring and Online Coaching

If you excel in a particular subject, tutoring can be a lucrative way to earn money. Students can offer tutoring services for high school students, fellow university students, or even online courses.

How to Get Started:

• Advertise your services on social media or through word of mouth.
• Join tutoring platforms like Wyzant, Preply, or even Kenyan WhatsApp groups.
• Offer trial sessions to attract clients.

Potential Earnings:

• Ksh 500 – 2,000 per session, depending on the subject and expertise.

3. Online Reselling (Dropshipping & Thrift Business)

Online reselling is a great way to make money with minimal capital. Students can sell clothes, accessories, electronics, or handmade products on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Jiji.

How to Get Started:

• Identify a niche market (e.g., thrift fashion, phone accessories, or beauty products).
• Source products from wholesalers or dropshipping suppliers.
• Use social media and student networks to market your products.

Potential Earnings:

• Ksh 10,000 – 100,000+ per month, depending on sales volume.

4. Social Media Management and Influencing

With businesses increasingly shifting online, social media management is in high demand. If you have strong marketing skills, you can help businesses grow their online presence.

How to Get Started:

• Learn social media marketing strategies (Facebook Ads, Instagram growth, etc.).
• Offer free or low-cost services to build a portfolio.
• Approach local businesses and startups for social media management deals.

Potential Earnings:

• Ksh 5,000 – 50,000+ per month, depending on the number of clients.

5. Agribusiness (Urban Farming & Poultry Keeping)

For students with access to small spaces, urban farming and poultry keeping can be a sustainable income source. Crops like vegetables, mushrooms, and herbs grow well in small areas, while poultry farming requires minimal space.

How to Get Started:

• Start with small capital (Ksh 5,000 – 20,000).
• Sell produce to students, nearby markets, or through online platforms.
• Leverage agribusiness training programs offered by Kenyan government agencies.

Potential Earnings:

• Ksh 10,000 – 50,000+ per month, depending on production and sales.

Conclusion

Side hustles not only provide students with financial support but also help them develop essential skills for future careers. The key to success is consistency, creativity, and leveraging available resources like social media and online marketplaces. Start small, stay focused, and watch your business grow!