We all spend hours on our phones every day—scrolling through social media, chatting on WhatsApp, and watching videos on TikTok. But what if I told you that you could actually make money from your phone instead of just spending time on it? I know it sounds cliche, but that is the truth.
Things are tough in Nigeria right now. The cost of living is rising, and job opportunities are limited, which means to survive you need to earn more.
In this guide, I’ll show you real, practical ways to make money using just your phone, no scams—just legit opportunities that work.
Fastest & Most Profitable Ways to Make Money with Your Phone
1. Freelancing
If you have a skill such as writing, graphic design, video editing, programming, or even voice-over work, you can make money on freelancing platforms using your phone. You can use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and PeoplePerHour to get great gigs. However, you will need patience and a good strategy.
How to start: Create an account, list your services, and apply for jobs.
Potential earnings: ₦50,000–₦500,000+ per month (depending on your skills and consistency).
2. Online Surveys & Microtasks
Some apps pay you to complete surveys, review products, or perform small online tasks.
- Platforms to use: Clickworker, Remotasks, Toloka, Swagbucks
- How to start: Sign up, complete tasks, and withdraw earnings via PayPal or gift cards.
- Potential earnings: ₦1,000 – ₦50,000 per month (varies based on tasks completed).
It won’t make you rich, but it’s an easy way to earn extra cash during your free time.
3. Affiliate Marketing
Do you like sharing product recommendations on WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook? You can make money by promoting products and earning a commission when people buy through your referral links.
- Platforms to use: Jumia Affiliate Program, Konga Affiliate, Amazon Associates
- How to start: Sign up for an affiliate program, get your referral link, and share it with friends and followers.
- Potential earnings: ₦10,000 – ₦500,000 per month (depending on how well you market the products).
The key is choosing trending products and promoting them smartly.
4. Social Media Monetization
If you’re already spending hours on social media, why not get paid for it? You can monetize your audience by creating engaging content and growing your following.
- Platforms to use: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook
- How to start: Pick a niche (e.g., comedy, tutorials, business tips), create engaging content, and build a following.
- Ways to earn: Brand deals, ad revenue, sponsored posts.
- Potential earnings: ₦50,000 – ₦5,000,000+ per month (depending on your audience size and engagement).
Even if you don’t want to be on camera, you can make money managing social media pages for businesses.
5. Trading & Investing Apps
Investing is one of the smartest ways to grow your money, and you don’t need a laptop or a financial degree to start. With apps like Trove, you can invest in stocks, ETFs, and other assets directly from your phone, making it easier than ever to build wealth.
Platforms to use: Trove, Risevest, Bamboo, Chaka
How to start: Download the Trove app, create an account, and fund your wallet.
Investment options
- Local & Foreign Stocks: Buy shares of Nigerian companies or global giants like Apple and Tesla.
- ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds): A great way to diversify and reduce risk.
- Bonds & REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts): Secure investment options for long-term growth.
Why choose Trove?
- Low investment entry (start with as little as ₦1,000).
- Access to both Nigerian and U.S. stocks.
- Secure platform with easy withdrawal options.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking investing is only for the rich. But with apps like Trove, you can start small, learn as you go, and build your portfolio over time.
The key is consistency and patience—investing is a long-term game.
6. Selling Products Online
You don’t need a physical shop to sell products. With your phone, you can sell physical or digital products online.
What to sell: clothes, shoes, gadgets, digital products (ebooks, courses, templates).
Platforms to use: WhatsApp Business, Instagram, Jiji, Facebook Marketplace.
Potential earnings: ₦10,000–₦1,000,000+ per month.
One of the best strategies is dropshipping, where you sell products without actually keeping inventory. You just take orders, and your supplier handles the delivery.
Tips for Success & Avoiding Scams
The internet is full of scams, especially when it comes to making money online. Here’s how to stay safe:
✅ Avoid get-rich-quick schemes: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Making money requires patience.
✅ Do your research: Before joining any platform, check reviews and testimonials.
✅ Never pay to get a job: Legit online jobs don’t require you to pay money upfront.
✅ Be consistent: Making money online takes time. Stay patient and keep improving your skills.
Read Also: How to Start Saving Money with a Low Income
Conclusion
Making money with your phone in Nigeria is real and achievable. It could be freelancing, selling products, affiliate marketing, or even starting a mobile money business—there’s just an opportunity for everyone.
The key is to start. Pick one or two of these methods, take action, and stay consistent. Over time, you’ll start seeing results.
