There was a time when making money meant wearing a suit, working 9 to 5, and collecting a paycheck at the end of the month.
But today, many Nigerian youths are earning cool cash from their laptops, using skills they taught themselves — like coding, graphic design, writing, and more.
Let’s explore how they’re doing it, and how you can too.
1. Freelancing: Work for Clients Anywhere in the World
Freelancing means doing paid jobs for different clients, without being permanently employed. It’s one of the fastest ways Nigerian techies are earning.
Popular skills used for freelancing:
- Web design / development
- UI/UX design
- Content and copywriting
- SEO / Digital marketing
- Graphics and branding
- Video editing / animation
Where they find gigs:
Many Nigerians now earn in dollars and receive payments through Payoneer, Wise, or Domiciliary accounts.
2. Remote Jobs: Full-Time Work, But From Home
Some Nigerian techies work full-time for foreign companies, but from home. These are called remote jobs.
Popular remote roles include:
- Frontend/backend developer
- Product designer
- Technical writer
- Data analyst
- Community manager
- Customer support agent (for tech products)
You can earn between $500 to $5000/month, depending on your role and experience.
Where to find remote jobs:
3. Creating & Selling Digital Products
Many tech creatives are turning knowledge into income. Some examples:
- A UI designer sells design templates on Gumroad.
- A writer creates and sells eBooks or courses.
- A developer builds a small app and earns from subscriptions.
- A digital marketer creates a paid Notion planner.
This is called passive income — earn while you sleep.
4. Teaching Others Online
Once you get good at a skill, you can teach others and get paid. Some Nigerians:
- Start YouTube channels for coding, Canva tips, or writing hacks
- Offer coaching/mentorship via Zoom
- Teach on platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or Selar
- Create Telegram classes and charge a small fee
You don’t need to be an “expert” — just one step ahead of your audience.
5. Starting a Tech Business or Side Hustle
Some people go beyond freelancing and launch their own brands:
- A UI designer starts a design agency
- A developer builds a SaaS product for schools or small businesses
- A copywriter offers branding packages with partners
- A team of friends launch a startup or digital service
It takes work, but it also builds long-term wealth.
How Much Can You Really Earn?
Here’s a rough monthly range (in Naira and Dollars):
| Skill | Beginner (₦) | Experienced (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| UI/UX Design | ₦100,000 – ₦500,000 | ₦600,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| Web Development | ₦150,000 – ₦800,000 | ₦1,000,000 – ₦4,000,000 |
| Copywriting | ₦80,000 – ₦400,000 | ₦500,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Technical Writing | ₦100,000 – ₦600,000 | ₦700,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| SEO / Digital Marketing | ₦100,000 – ₦700,000 | ₦1,000,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
Note: These figures vary based on your skill, clients, and consistency.
My Advice
Tech skills are changing lives in Nigeria. With a laptop, good internet, and strong consistency, you can start making money from anywhere, even if you don’t live in Lagos or Abuja.
The money is not just abroad. It’s in your head, your hands, and your hustle.
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