In an era characterized by technological advancement and digitization, financial freedom is no longer reserved for individuals working traditional 9-5 jobs.
An increasing number of students in Nigeria are breaking free from the boundaries of conventional earning means and are venturing into the virtual world of earning money online. But how exactly is this possible, you might ask? The answer is literally in your hand!
In this article, we will delve into the world of apps to make money online in Nigeria as a student. These applications have provided Nigerian students with a remarkable platform where they can generate income at their convenience.
By transforming a smartphone into a money-making tool, these apps provide various opportunities for making money- ranging from online marketing to freelancing, participating in paid surveys, affiliate marketing, content creation, and many more.
Now, let’s explore the best options to earn that extra naira!
Growing Trends of Online Opportunities in Nigeria and How Apps Play a Significant Role
The digital landscape in Nigeria is experiencing exponential growth with various online opportunities cropping up. This has been triggered by improved internet access and increased mobile device usage across the country.
More people now enjoy working remotely, starting online businesses, taking online courses, or leveraging e-commerce to reach a broader customer base. Central to this transformation are mobile apps, significantly influencing this trend.
Mobile apps are opening up opportunities in different sectors. Apps such as Flutterwave and Paystack are revolutionizing payments and transactions, making it easier for businesses to sell their products and services online.
Apps like iRokoTV and NairaBox are enhancing the entertainment and lifestyle sector by making movies, music, and event tickets accessible at the touch of a button. Job seekers can utilize apps like Jobberman and NG Careers to access a wide array of job opportunities.
These apps, by facilitating these services and interactions, have a significant role in enhancing the availability and accessibility of online opportunities in Nigeria.
If you are interested in taking out loans, read – Top 21 Loan Apps For iPhone in Nigeria
How Can Students in Nigeria Leverage Mobile Apps for Online Income in 2024?
The age of the internet and mobile apps has transformed the way people work and earn money. Nowadays, one does not need to go through the conventional path of obtaining a degree, applying for jobs, and getting employed before they can earn an income.
Mobile apps and the online environment have presented numerous opportunities for earning money remotely. This holds even for students in Nigeria, where online jobs can supplement their income significantly.
Here is how Nigerian students can leverage mobile apps for online income in 2024.
1. Cryptocurrency Trading
Nigerian students can utilize cryptocurrency trading mobile apps to generate online income. These apps, such as TransferXO, Binance, and Coinbase, allow users to trade cryptocurrencies 24/7.
With comprehensive understanding and strategic trading, they can make significant profits. Moreover, these apps also provide educational resources to help users learn trading strategies and trends.
By maximizing these features, students can turn cryptocurrency trading into a reliable income stream. Therefore, it’s a viable online earning option for Nigerian students, offering flexibility alongside their studies.
2. Freelance Services
There are numerous freelance mobile apps available that connect freelancers with potential clients.
Students with marketable skills such as content writing, graphic design, social media management, and coding can offer their services on these platforms.
All it takes is to create a compelling profile showcasing your skills and expertise and start bidding for projects.
3. Online Tutoring
For students excelling in their areas of study, tutoring other students can be a great way to earn money. Tutoring apps enable students to tutor on subjects they are proficient in.
One can schedule their tutoring sessions according to their convenience, making it a flexible option for students.
4. Social Media Influencer
The popularity of social media platforms has given rise to the trend of social media influencers. If you are adept at creating captivating content, these platforms can be monetized by endorsing products and earning a commission for each sale made through your referral.
5. Blogging
Blogging platforms have made it easy to start blogging. By choosing a niche topic, writing informative content, and implementing effective SEO strategies, you can earn income through ad revenue or affiliate marketing.
6. E-commerce Seller
With the advent of e-commerce platforms, it’s easier than ever to start your own online business. You can sell products online, be it your handmade goods or products sourced from suppliers.
7. Online Surveys and Reviews
Several apps pay users for taking online surveys, testing apps, or reviewing products.
8. Stock Trading and Investment
Although this requires initial capital and knowledge about the market, students can earn substantial income from stock trading and investment apps like Robinhood, Etoro, or Coinbase.
You can also check out the 20 Proven Ways on How to Make Money Online in Nigeria | 2024 Make Money Hacks if you are not a Nigerian student
Top 20 Apps To Make Money Online in Nigeria as a Student in 2024
Online earning has become quite common, and this isn’t left out in Nigeria, even for students. Are you a student looking for a legitimate way to make money online in Nigeria in 2024? You’ve come to the right place!
Here are 20 of the best apps that can help you make some extra cash right from your mobile device.
1. TransferXO
TransferXO is an innovative online platform specially designed for students in Nigeria looking to dive into the profitable world of cryptocurrency trading. This easy-to-use application allows its users to buy, sell, and manage a wide range of cryptocurrencies, helping them make money through intelligent investments.
TransferXO provides crucial insights into market trends, as well as educational resources, helping newcomers to understand the dynamics of cryptocurrency trading. Moreover, the platform ensures utmost security for transactions, mitigating risks associated with online trading.
As a profitable and educational avenue, TransferXO could become an indispensable tool for Nigerian students interested in making extra money through cryptocurrency trading.
2. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a renowned online platform that allows students in Nigeria to earn extra cash by doing what they do online ordinarily. This may include shopping, surfing the web, watching videos, playing games, or taking surveys.
Users get rewarded with points known as Swagbucks (SBs), which they can convert into cash and get via PayPal, or redeem as gift cards for popular retail stores.
One striking feature of this platform is its legitimacy and extensive user base, providing a real chance for students to make a decent amount of money on the side.
Using this platform efficiently and regularly could give Nigerian students the financial freedom to take care of their personal needs without breaking the bank.
3. Upwork
Upwork is a leading freelance marketplace where students in Nigeria can offer their services and skills to international clients for a fee. Whether you are skilled in graphic design, programming, writing, or data entry, you can make money on Upwork.
After creating a professional profile, you can search for jobs that match your skill set, bid on them, and work at your convenience. One distinct advantage of this platform is the possibility of earning in dollars, thus taking advantage of the exchange rate disparity.
With Upwork, students have a golden opportunity to hone their skills, build professional relationships, and earn substantial income while studying.
4. Jumia
Jumia is a popular online marketplace app in Nigeria that enables students to make money through affiliate marketing. As an affiliate marketer, students can earn commissions by promoting and selling Jumia’s wide range of products, which include fashion items, gadgets, appliances, and more.
Moreover, the app also has a feature that rewards users for referring others to use Jumia services, making it a great way to earn passive income. Besides shopping, Jumia One also allows users to book flights, pay bills, and buy airtime.
The wide variety of services provided by the app makes it a favorite among students seeking to make money online in Nigeria. Its user-friendly interface and efficient customer service make earning money through Jumia One a breeze for Nigerian students.
5. Gigbucks
Gigbucks is an innovative and dynamic platform that enables individuals, particularly students in Nigeria, to make money online. It works similarly to Fiverr, providing an online marketplace where students can sell their services or ‘gigs’ in a broad range of categories.
These categories include graphics & design, writing, business services, marketing, programming, and more. Sellers set their prices. Gigbucks offers an easy way for students to leverage their skills and talents to make money in their free time.
Moreover, this platform can also serve as a training ground for budding freelancers, allowing them to enhance their expertise, create a portfolio, and learn to manage clients, which will be highly beneficial for their future career prospects.
6. iWriter
iWriter is a popular platform for making money online by writing articles in Nigeria. For students with a knack for writing, iWriter offers the perfect opportunity to monetize their skills. Students can choose to write articles on a variety of topics, enabling them to tap into their interests while also broadening their knowledge base.
iWriter pays on a per-word basis, with the pay rate increasing as a writer moves up the ranks from being a Standard writer to a Premium, then to an Elite writer, and finally to an Elite Plus writer.
Students can make money by writing articles. Besides the potential to make a good income, students can also use this platform to develop their writing skills and build a writing portfolio, which can pave the way for future opportunities in the writing and publishing industry.
7. Fiverr
Fiverr is a popular global online marketplace where individuals can sell their skills and talents. It has an intuitive interface where one can create a gig outlining their specific skills.
From graphic design, and content creation, to programming, students in Nigeria can leverage their skills on Fiverr to make money online. One notable aspect of Fiverr is the rating and feedback system that helps to build one’s credibility.
Earnings can easily be withdrawn through various methods including PayPal. The platform is also beneficial for networking as it brings together millions of users from across the globe, opening doors to numerous opportunities.
8. Vindale Research
Vindale Research is an online survey platform that allows you to make money by participating in paid surveys, product testing, and reward mail programs. Available in Nigeria, students can sign up for free and begin taking part in available market research opportunities.
This platform differs from others by operating on a cash-only system, meaning you are paid directly in cash and not through points or gift cards. For a student with an opinion and some extra time, Vindale Research offers a straightforward way to earn some extra income.
Furthermore, it ensures users’ privacy and doesn’t sell information to third parties. Payouts can be received through PayPal making it convenient for users worldwide.
9. Freelancer
Freelancer is a globally acclaimed platform for anyone who possesses specific skills or expertise. This app presents students in Nigeria with an opportunity to earn money online. The platform allows them to connect with potential employers looking for various skills and expertise across a broad spectrum.
Skills may range from writing, designing, programming, digital marketing, and data entry, to numerous others. After registering on the app, students can search for jobs that match their skill set and submit their proposals.
Upon successful completion of tasks, payments are credited to their accounts. Besides, they have the chance to enhance their abilities and expertise through various tasks they handle.
Essentially, Freelancers provide an avenue for students to capitalize on their skills, and not just make money but gain invaluable experience for the future as well.
10. Toluna
Toluna is an online platform that allows you to make money through participating in surveys and other simple tasks. Students in Nigeria can make use of this platform to make money by giving their opinions on various topics.
The app has collaboration with various companies that need opinions on their products or services, hence creating a chance for users to earn. Users earn points for each survey completed, which can then be redeemed for cash or various rewards.
Additionally, the app also provides other fun ways to earn, like playing games, participating in contests, and even through friend referrals.
As a user-friendly platform with a simple interface, Toluna proves to be an exciting and flexible option for Nigerian students looking to earn some extra income online.
11. Upstox
Upstox is a popular platform for earning money online, especially for Nigerian students interested in stock trading. The platform simplifies the trading process and offers comprehensive insights into the world of finance, allowing users to gain skills and earn money through buying and selling stocks.
Students can open a free account and access valuable educational resources on the basics of trading. Users can then take advantage of low brokerage charges, fast trading, and high-leverage options.
The intuitive interface is user-friendly even for beginners, and it can provide a reliable income stream for dedicated individuals. Keep in mind that stock trading always carries a degree of risk, and one should approach it with a well-researched strategy.
12. Canva
Canva is a renowned graphic design tool used by millions worldwide, and it also presents a great opportunity for students in Nigeria to make money online. The platform offers various templates for graphics, presentations, social media posts, and much more, making designing easier for both beginners and experts.
Students who possess creativity and a flair for design can monetize these skills by offering their Canva design services online. From designing logos and social media posts to creating business presentations and marketing materials, there is a broad market for freelance designers.
Websites like Fiverr and Upwork are popular platforms to sell these services. Plus, Canva itself has an affiliate program that pays a commission for referred users. Thus, with some effort and creative thinking, Canva can serve as a significant income source for students.
13. Jiji
Jiji is one of Nigeria’s largest classified ad platforms where you can buy and sell goods and services. As a student, this platform presents a convenient way of earning extra income. Users can post items for sale in categories ranging from fashion, electronics, and vehicles to properties and jobs.
One of the significant benefits of using Jiji is the face-to-face transactions between buyers and sellers, ensuring a secure trading environment. You could easily sell off used textbooks, electronics, or homemade products with relative ease.
Additionally, you can offer services like home tutoring, article writing, graphic design, and others. By harnessing Jiji’s wide audience base, you can easily convert your skills or unwanted items into cash.
14. Etsy
Etsy is a global online marketplace majoring in unique and creative goods, which include handmade items, vintage goods, and craft supplies. These span across a broad range of categories like jewelry, clothing, art, home, and living, among others.
It presents an excellent opportunity for Nigerian students to earn income. If you are good at making handmade items, then Etsy is a perfect platform to sell your products to a global market. Simply create an Etsy shop, list your items, and start selling.
Etsy allows you to manage your shop through the Sell on Etsy app conveniently. With Etsy, you can easily turn your creativity into income while reaching customers from all over the world. It has a straightforward fee policy and provides resources and tools to help grow your business.
15. Nairaland Forum
The Nairaland Forum is one of the largest internet forums in Nigeria, with millions of members discussing diverse subjects like education, careers, and finance. Not only does it provide valuable information, it is also a potent avenue for making money online.
The platform is useful for students seeking opportunities to generate extra income. One can start by providing services like content writing, graphic design, digital marketing, or other freelance gigs on the forum.
You can also promote and sell your products, either second-hand items or self-produced goods, and participate in affiliate marketing.
The forum also has a blogging section, where a popular blog post can attract advertisement requests from corporate bodies. If properly leveraged, Nairaland Forum can become a vital online hub for students to make money.
16. iPoll
iPoll is a popular market research application where students can make money online in Nigeria by completing surveys, diary entries, or product reviews. Users provide valuable consumer insights to companies by participating in market research surveys about various products and services.
The app, which is user-friendly and compatible with all devices, rewards users with cash or gift cards. Some of these rewards are redeemable in Nigerian online stores, which makes it an attractive proposition for students looking to make some extra money.
Earnings can also be withdrawn directly to a PayPal account. Students need to be persistent and patient with the app as high-paying tasks can be scarce. Despite this, the opportunity to make money simply by giving your opinion on iPoll can be a valuable addition to a student’s income stream.
17. Clickworker
Clickworker is a popular micro-job site that provides a platform for people looking to earn extra money online, including students in Nigeria. It functions as a hub where companies assign tasks such as text creation, product categorization, web research, and data annotation to Clickworkers.
These tasks are usually part of larger, more complex projects and do not require specific expertise to accomplish, making it ideal for students who want to earn in their free time. Furthermore, Clickworker offers flexible work hours; one can work anytime and anywhere as long as they have a stable internet connection and a computer or a smartphone.
Payouts are made weekly or monthly via PayPal or SEPA. Students should, however, beware that income may not be consistent, as task availability varies from time to time.
18. Konga
Konga is a leading e-commerce platform in Nigeria that provides a substantial avenue for students to make money online. Essentially, Konga allows students to become affiliates, earning them a commission every time a purchase is made through their affiliate link.
What makes this suitable for students is that no upfront investment is required; all you need is an active online presence to promote your affiliate link.
Apart from this, Konga also provides a platform for budding entrepreneurs to sell their products, serving as a perfect launchpad for business-minded students to tap into the growing online market.
Selling on Konga comes with numerous benefits including nationwide delivery, a secured payment gateway, and marketing support.
Despite this, students should be prepared to handle potential challenges that come with online business such as competition and customer dissatisfaction.
19. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is a convenient and practical way for students in Nigeria to make money online. It is an application that connects taskers with those in need of various services.
With a wide range of categories such as home repairs, moving services, cleaning, and many more, it offers numerous earning opportunities for those willing to provide these services.
As a student, you can conveniently manage your tasks and fit them into your schedule. Once a task is complete, payments are seamlessly sent directly through the app. This creates an easy and hassle-free transaction process.
Furthermore, the TaskRabbit platform fosters a community where hard work and skills are recognized and compensated accordingly, making it an excellent online earning avenue for Nigerian students.
20. Field Agent
Field Agent is an application that turns everyday activities into cash-earning opportunities. It allows Nigerian students to earn money online by carrying out various tasks such as retail audits, mystery shopping, or even trying out new products.
Each job displays its payout, allowing you to choose tasks that best fit your preference. What sets Field Agent apart is that most of the tasks involve going to nearby retail stores or malls which you may visit as part of your daily routine.
For Nigerian students who often navigate tight budgets, the app provides an opportunity to convert spare time and routine errands into potential earnings. Payment is convenient and digital, making it easy for students to manage their funds directly on their mobile devices.
If you need apps for retrieval of gift cards, check out this article – Top 17+ Best Apps to Redeem Gift Cards in Nigeria | 2023 List
Security Measures Nigerian Students Should Consider When Using Money-Making Apps
In this digital age, technology has provided opportunities to make money through various mobile apps. However, these opportunities come with several risks, especially in terms of personal and financial security.
Many Nigerian students use these money-making apps to supplement their income, so it’s important for them to understand how to protect themselves when navigating this online environment.
Here are several security measures that should be considered:
- Use Trusted and Verified Apps: It’s crucial to only download and use apps that are verified by trusted sources like Google Play Store or Apple Store. These platforms vet the apps they feature to ensure they are secure and trustworthy.
- Use Strong Passwords: Using strong, unique passwords for every app is an important step in protecting personal information. Passwords should be long, involve a mixture of letters, numbers, and special characters, and not contain any personal information.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: As much as possible, avoid sharing personal information such as your full name, home address, bank details, or identification numbers. Legitimate apps will not require such information for regular transactions.
- Keep Software Up-to-Date: Ensure the app is updated regularly as this will typically include any necessary security patches and improvements.
- Understand the App’s Privacy Policy: Before downloading and using any app, take the time to understand its privacy policy. This document will provide crucial information on how the app collects, stores, and uses your data.
- Enable Two-Step Verification: Whenever it is available, enabling two-step verification will add a layer of security.
- Monitor your Account: Regularly monitor your accounts to spot any unusual activities or transactions. Early detection of suspicious activity is essential for minimizing potential damage.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are typically not secure and can provide an easy opportunity for hackers to access your data. Whenever possible, only use secure and private Wi-Fi networks when conducting financial transactions.
If you are interested in selling Bitcoin, read – 15 Best Apps to Sell Bitcoin in Nigeria | 2023 Best Rates
Balancing Academic Commitments with Online Money-Making Pursuits as a Student
As a student, managing academic commitments while exploring online money-making ventures can be a tough juggle. Nevertheless, it’s achievable with meticulous planning and self-discipline.
Optimize your daily routine and leverage the flexibility of online earning methods. Prioritize your academic obligations and set specific time frames for online tasks.
Be diligent and avoid procrastination to make the most of your time. Tools such as time trackers or scheduling apps can enhance productivity. Also, ensure your online endeavors do not compromise your health or social life.
The key is finding a balance between education and earning, utilizing free time efficiently while not overloading yourself. It’s a challenging yet rewarding experience that provides invaluable skills such as time management, responsibility, and financial literacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these money-making apps free to use?
Most of these apps are free to use but may have in-app purchases or subscription plans that can provide more opportunities or benefits.
Is it safe to use these apps to make money online?
While most of these apps are legit and secure, it is crucial to always do your due diligence before registering or providing any personal information. Always read the terms of service and check out user reviews.
What skills do I need to earn money through these apps?
Different apps may require different skills. For instance, freelance job platforms like Fiverr or Upwork may require specific professional skills like writing, programming, graphic design, etc. However, survey apps like Toluna or Swagbucks don’t need any particular skill, only your opinion.
Conclusion
Making money online as a student in Nigeria is feasible and can be extremely beneficial. Mobile applications like Fiverr, Jumia, Swagbucks, and so on offer viable platforms for students to earn income.
Whether you are an amateur photographer, freelance writer, designer, or just want to get paid for your opinion, there’s an app that suits your skills and interests. So, why wait? Start exploring these apps to supplement your income while studying.
Remember, the internet doesn’t just offer knowledge; it offers financial rewards as well. Be proactive, harness this potential, and create a rewarding online career!