Profitable Side Hustles You Can Start in Lagos

Lagos is a city that never sleeps fast-paced, full of opportunities, and perfect for anyone ready to earn more outside their 9–5 job. With high living costs and an increasingly entrepreneurial population, side hustles are no longer optional they’re essential. Whether you're a student, full-time employee, or business owner looking to diversify your income, here are 10 profitable side hustles you can start in Lagos today.

1. Food Delivery Service

The hustle and bustle of Lagos often leave little time for people to cook. This creates a growing demand for food delivery services. By partnering with local food vendors or running your own kitchen, you can fulfill this need.

Startup needs: A reliable bike rider or logistics partner, smartphone, and basic record-keeping.

2. Social Media Management

Lagos is a hub for SMEs, influencers, and event planners—most of whom need a strong social media presence but lack the time or skill to manage it. If you have content creation skills and understand platforms like Instagram and TikTok, this side hustle could work for you.

Startup needs: Phone or laptop, Canva, and an internet connection.

3. AirBnB or Shortlet Concierge Services

With shortlet apartments booming across the city, many property owners are looking for people to manage guest check-ins, cleaning, and restocking. This is a low-capital side hustle that rewards consistency and trustworthiness.

Startup needs: Communication skills, phone, and access to cleaners.

4. Mini Importation

Nigerians love gadgets, fashion accessories, and unique beauty products. With a small capital, you can import items from platforms like 1688 or Alibaba and sell locally on Instagram or Jiji.

Startup needs: Capital, sourcing skills, delivery plan.

5. Freelance Writing or Copywriting

If you have strong writing skills, there’s a global and local demand for writers in blogging, advertising, and SEO content. Lagos-based startups and media companies often outsource this work.

Startup needs: Writing portfolio, access to Upwork, LinkedIn, or Nigerian freelance platforms.

6. Reselling Data and Airtime (VTU Business)

The need for airtime and internet data never fades in Lagos. People appreciate buying from vendors who offer discounts, and it takes very little to start.

Startup needs: VTU portal registration (e.g., VTpass, Aimtoget), smartphone.

7. Dropshipping

This model lets you sell goods without holding inventory. You simply advertise, take orders, and pass them to a supplier who ships to the customer.

Startup needs: Marketing skills, trusted suppliers, and basic customer service.

8. Cake and Pastry Orders

Celebrations are frequent in Lagos birthdays, anniversaries, office parties making cake baking a steady side hustle. Instagram and word-of-mouth can grow your customer base quickly.

Startup needs: Baking skills, basic tools, branding, and packaging.

9. Laundry and Ironing Services

Busy professionals in Lagos often outsource chores like laundry. If you live in a densely populated estate, this hustle can grow fast with reliability and good packaging.

Startup needs: Washing machine, iron, packaging materials, pick-up/delivery plan.

10. Real Estate Referral Agent

As Lagos expands, the real estate sector remains lucrative. You don’t need to own property just refer clients to realtors and earn commissions.

Startup needs: Agent connections, trust, and digital marketing.

In Lagos, hustle is culture. Whether you’re driven by financial necessity or just want to earn extra income, these side hustles can open doors to financial freedom. Most of them require minimal capital but demand consistency, professionalism, and smart marketing. Choose one that aligns with your skill set and start today.