Top Side Hustle Apps Paying Nigerians in 2025 | Mobile Income

Introduction

Nigeria’s rising cost of living has pushed many households to look for extra sources of income. The good news is that you don’t need a huge capital outlay to start a side hustle – a smartphone and an internet connection are often enough. Whether you’re a student, a full‑time professional or a stay‑at‑home parent, there are legitimate apps that will pay you for your skills, time or attention. This article breaks down the top paying side‑hustle apps available to Nigerians in 2025. Each section explains how the app works, what makes it ideal for Nigerians, potential earnings, and things to watch out for.

1. Freelancing with Upwork

Upwork is the world’s largest freelancing marketplace, with more than 18 million freelancers connecting to global clients who pay competitive rates for quality work zikoko.com. Nigerians can register on Upwork, showcase their skills in writing, design, programming or marketing, and submit proposals for projects. Because Upwork accepts Nigerian freelancers and offers multiple payment methods (including bank transfers and Payoneer), it’s a reliable way to earn in dollars .

On Upwork you’ll need to craft a detailed profile highlighting your expertise and past work. Freelancers start by bidding on small projects to build reviews; once your reputation grows, you can raise your rates. According to Zikoko’s 2025 guide, earnings range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per month depending on your niche and client base.

Upwork’s advantages include access to a global client base, flexible working hours and secure payment protection. Its disadvantages are high competition for popular categories and a 10–20 % commission on contracts. To stand out, focus on high‑demand niches (such as AI or blockchain), communicate clearly with clients and deliver quality work on time.

2. Fiverr – Sell Your Skills in Bite‑Sized Gigs

Fiverr is a digital marketplace connecting freelancers to clients looking for tasks like graphic design, writing and programming wise.com. To start, create a seller profile and a Gig describing the service you offer; gigs start at US $5, but experienced sellers charge much more.

According to research cited by Wise, the average Fiverr user earns about US $103 per month and the median income is US $60 per month. While this is lower than Upwork’s potential, Fiverr can be a good starting point for Nigerians who want quick, small jobs and an international client base.

Success on Fiverr requires a clear gig description, competitive pricing and strong reviews. Use relevant keywords and add examples of your work to attract clients. You can withdraw earnings via PayPal or Payoneer, then convert them to naira through services like Wise or local fintechs.

3. Mindrift AI – Train Artificial Intelligence Models

Artificial‑intelligence models need human feedback, and Mindrift AI pays people to provide it. The platform hires participants to rank AI responses, edit AI‑generated text and create new contentzikoko.com. It accepts Nigerian applicants and pays in U.S. dollars, making it attractive for those seeking high‑value side hustles.

Signing up requires completing qualification tests to demonstrate strong communication and comprehension skills. Tasks range from evaluating chatbot responses to writing prompts. Earnings depend on task complexity; Glassdoor estimates an hourly pay range of about US $32–73. While tasks can be sporadic and demand attention to detail, the flexibility and high hourly rates make Mindrift AI a compelling option.

Mindrift is best suited to people comfortable with writing and editing. To maximise earnings, keep your accuracy high, provide constructive feedback and stay active on the platform so you qualify for higher‑paying tasks.

4. Invest with Risevest and Bamboo

Investment isn’t strictly a side hustle, but saving and growing your money in dollars is a smart way to preserve your purchasing power. Risevest gives Nigerians access to U.S. stocks, real estate and fixed‑income securities and has helped over 800 000 Nigerians build wealth. You can start with as little as ₦1 000 and choose from pre‑built investment plans or create your own. Average annual returns are around 9–14 %, although markets fluctuate, and returns are never guaranteed.

Bamboo offers fractional shares of U.S. and Nigerian stocks and counts over 300 000 users. After downloading the app and completing KYC verification, you can fund your account with naira, buy shares and receive dividends. The app is designed for Nigerians with educational content and regulatory compliance.

Both apps carry investment risks: currency fluctuations can eat into returns, and markets can go up or down. Still, for long‑term savers, they provide access to global assets that can outperform local inflation. Diversify your portfolio, invest consistently and reinvest dividends to grow your holdings.

5. Toloka – Earn Money from Micro‑Tasks

Toloka is a micro‑task platform that pays users to complete simple jobs tailored to their regionoluboba.com. These tasks include comparing images, verifying businesses, answering questions about websites or recording short videos at home. All you need is a smartphone with an internet connection, and there’s no limit to how much you can earn – the more tasks you complete, the more you get paid.

Toloka appeals to students and stay‑at‑home parents because tasks can be done flexibly and do not require special skills. Payments go to Skrill or Payoneer once you reach the withdrawal threshold. While individual tasks pay small amounts, consistent participation can add up. Be sure to follow task guidelines closely to ensure your work is accepted and you avoid rejections.

6. Clickworker – Micro‑Jobs for Dollars

Clickworker is another platform offering micro‑tasks like data entry, online research, app testing and content moderation. Because the platform pays in dollars and allows weekly withdrawals via PayPal, you can earn up to US $500 per month if you dedicate enough time and pick higher‑paying assignments.

Clickworker’s strengths include its variety of tasks and flexible schedule; however, pay per task is low and work can be repetitive. To succeed, maintain accuracy and pick tasks you can complete quickly. It’s ideal for people seeking supplementary income rather than a primary salary.

7. Hawkit & Chingari – Earn from Social Media Engagement

Hawkit is a Nigerian platform that pays users to perform social‑media tasks such as following pages, liking and commenting on posts, subscribing to YouTube channels and testing apps. Each task can pay up to ₦150, and you can earn extra money by referring friends (₦400 per referral). Hawkit also allows businesses to advertise, so there’s an additional opportunity to promote your own products.

Chingari is a social‑media and gaming app similar to TikTok with over 50 million downloads. Users earn GARI cryptocurrency by watching, liking and sharing videos. While the rewards per activity are modest, they can accumulate over time and are a fun way to monetise your downtime.

Both apps demonstrate how social media can be turned into a side income. Focus on completing tasks consistently and use referrals to boost your earnings. Because payouts are relatively small, treat these apps as supplementary income rather than a primary source.

8. Foap – Sell Your Photos and Videos

Foap is a marketplace where photographers and videographers can sell their work to brands and advertising agencies. Big brands like Getty Images purchase content through the platform, and Foap pays contributors a 50 % commission on each sale. There are no geographic restrictions, so Nigerians with a smartphone and an eye for good images can participate.

To start, upload high‑quality photos or videos, add relevant tags and wait for buyers to purchase your content. Earnings vary widely – from zero to hundreds of dollars monthly – depending on the uniqueness and quality of your work. Because competition is global, focus on niche or culturally rich subjects that international brands may find valuable.

9. Rewards Apps: Swagbucks & Givvy

Rewards apps pay users in points or cash for simple activities. Swagbucks is one of Nigeria’s most popular reward apps; you earn points (SBs) by taking surveys, watching videos, playing games and scanning receipts. Those points can be redeemed for PayPal funds or gift cards such as Amazon, Target or Starbucks. Swagbucks boasts over 16 million users and has paid more than US $300 million globally. According to Swagbucks’ own estimates, members typically make about US $1–5 a day, with occasional offers paying higher amounts.

Givvy Videos is another app that rewards you for watching videos, listening to music, completing surveys and trying out offers. You can cash out quickly, making it attractive for those who want instant rewards. Like Swagbucks, earnings per task are small, so consistency and referrals are key.

Because rewards apps often pay in small amounts, use them alongside other side hustles. Be wary of scams – stick to well‑known platforms and never pay upfront fees to “unlock” tasks.

10. Practical Tips for Success

The side‑hustle apps above cater to different skill sets and risk appetites. To maximise your earnings:

1. Diversify your income sources. Don’t rely on one app; combine freelancing, micro‑tasks and investment platforms to create multiple streams.
2. Prioritise skill development. Invest time in learning high‑demand skills like content writing, web development or data analysis; they pay more on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.
3. Set realistic expectations. Reward and micro‑task apps pay modestly – treat them as supplementary income rather than full‑time jobs.
4. Manage your time. Balance side‑hustle activities with work or studies by setting a schedule and tracking earnings to see which apps bring the best return on your time.
5. Stay safe and compliant. Avoid scams by using reputable platforms; for investment apps, understand the risks and keep your documents updated for identity verification.

Conclusion

Earning extra income in Nigeria no longer requires owning a shop or investing huge sums. By leveraging your smartphone and internet connection, you can find freelancing opportunities on Upwork or Fiverr, train AI models on Mindrift, complete micro‑tasks on Toloka and Clickworker, earn through social‑media engagement on Hawkit and Chingari, sell creative work on Foap and get rewarded for simple activities on Swagbucks and Givvy. Investment platforms like Risevest and Bamboo help you grow your savings in dollars and hedge against naira depreciation. Choose the platforms that match your skills and interests, commit to consistent effort and watch your side‑hustle income grow.

FAQ

Which side‑hustle app pays the most in Nigeria?
Apps with the highest earning potential are those that pay in dollars for specialised skills. Upwork and Mindrift AI can deliver hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month for skilled freelancers. Investment apps like Risevest may also grow your wealth over time.

How can I withdraw my earnings from Swagbucks or Givvy in Nigeria?
Swagbucks pays in PayPal funds or gift cards. You can open a PayPal account and use services like Wise or local fintech apps to convert dollars to naira. Givvy offers quick cash‑out options via PayPal or similar services.

Are investment apps like Risevest and Bamboo safe?
Risevest and Bamboo are designed for the Nigerian market with regulatory compliance and educational resources. However, investments always carry risk; returns vary with market conditions and currency fluctuations.

Can students use these side‑hustle apps?
Yes. Toloka and Hawkit offer simple tasks that fit a student’s schedule. Upwork, Fiverr and Clickworker accept students who have marketable skills. Investment apps require users to be at least 18, and rewards apps like Swagbucks and Givvy are open to anyone with a smartphone.

Are these apps available on both Android and iOS?
Most side‑hustle apps discussed – including Upwork, Fiverr, Toloka, Hawkit, Chingari, Risevest and Bamboo – have Android and iOS versions. Always download from official stores to avoid counterfeit apps.