By Edi J. Ekpo
When we discuss how to make money online in Nigeria as a student, some people think it’s not possible. But it is very possible even without capital.
It is not easy being a student in Nigeria today. Fees are getting more expensive to attend school, food items are becoming more expensive and the urge to succeed is real.
The majority of students depend on parents or guardians on financial support but they fail sometimes too. This is the reason why a large number of Nigerian students are currently seeking to earn money online, especially the one that does not require capital to start.
With just your smartphone, internet connection, and a little time each day, you can make money from the comfort of your hostel or home. There are real opportunities online that pay people for skills, services and simple tasks — and most don’t require any start-up money.
In this article you will learn how to make money online in Nigeria as a student (without capital) using trusted and safe methods that work. Everything is explained in simple English so anyone can understand and take action immediately.
Why make money online as a student?
Let’s start with the “why”. Many Nigerian students face real financial struggles. Even if your parents are supporting you, having your own money gives you freedom and reduces pressure on your family.
Also, the online world is full of opportunities. Every day, Nigerians like you are making money just by using their phones and internet connection.
Recommended Guide: How to get back a hacked Facebook or WhatsApp account in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)
Is it possible to make money online without capital?
Yes, it is. Many online money-making methods don’t require you to invest anything except your time, skills, and consistency. This article focuses on those kinds of opportunities. You will not be asked to pay any money upfront, buy any course, or join any shady Ponzi scheme.
How to make money online in Nigeria as a student (without capital)
1. Freelancing (zero start-up needed)
Freelancing simply means offering a service online and getting paid. For example, if you can write articles, edit videos, design flyers, or even just speak English well, there’s someone online who will pay you.
How to Start:
- Go to websites like Fiverr.com or Upwork.com
- Create a free account
- List a simple skill (e.g., “I will write a blog post” or “I will design a logo”)
- Use a basic phone to reply to messages and do your tasks
Skills you can offer even as a beginner:
- Typing jobs
- Transcription (writing down audio or video)
- Voice-over
- Blog writing
- Social media posts* Logo design with free apps like Canva
Tip: Watch free YouTube videos to learn and improve any skill.
2. Teaching people online and getting paid
Are you good at one subject? You can help secondary school students or even your fellow university students with difficult topics.
Where to Start:
- Offer to help on WhatsApp or Telegram groups
- Create a free profile on sites like Tutorme.com, Preply.com, or even local platforms like Tuteria
You don’t need money to start this — just your knowledge and willingness to teach.
3. Blogging without money using free tools
Yes, blogging still works. You don’t need to pay for a website to start. You can use Google Blogger (blogspot.com) or Medium.com for free.
Steps to Start:
- Go to Blogger.com and open a free blog
- Pick a topic you like (education, lifestyle, student tips, etc.)
- Start writing in simple English
When your blog starts having traffic, you can consider Google AdSense and make money out of your blog.
4. Answering surveys and testing apps
This one doesn’t make you rich, but can get you some airtime or small cash.
Popular Sites:
- Swagbucks
- ySense
- Toluna
- PaidViewpoint
Pro Tip: Use VPN or US-based profiles to get better surveys, but always be careful and avoid giving sensitive personal data.
5. Affiliate marketing (no capital required)
This is one of the best ways to make money online without having your product.
How it Works:
- You register with a company
- They give you a special link
- You share the link online (WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter)
- When someone buys through your link, you get paid
Where to Join:
- Jumia Affiliate Program
- Konga Affiliate Program
- Expertnaire (some plans require payment, but free alternatives exist)
- Amazon Associates (for foreign traffic)
Tip: Write WhatsApp status reviews or short videos to promote the product.
6. Becoming a social media manager
Many small businesses in Nigeria want to grow online but don’t have time or skills to manage their Facebook or Instagram pages.
What You Do:
- Create and post content
- Reply to comments
- Grow the page
How to Start:
- Message small businesses on IG or Facebook, offering a free trial
- Show results, then charge monthly (₦10,000 – ₦50,000)
You don’t need money to start — just a phone and creativity.
7. Transcription and subtitling
If you have sound hearing and a fast typing skill then you can work as a transcriber. This job requires listening to sound and typing what you hear.
Websites:
- Rev.com
- GoTranscript.com
- TranscribeMe.com
You get paid per audio minute. Some sites pay weekly via PayPal.
8. Take up a Virtual Assistant job
Virtual assistant is someone who is online and assists someone such as email response, schedule posts, research.
Who Needs VAs:
- Bloggers
- Online business owners
- Coaches
Where to Find VA Jobs:
- Facebook groups
- Fiverr
- Onlinejobs.ph
- Remote job boards
You can start with basic tasks and grow with time.
9. Selling digital skills on WhatsApp or Facebook
If you know a skill like:
- Graphic design
- Video editing
- Copywriting
- Resume writing
Then advertise yourself on your status or in student groups.
No website needed. Just post your samples and invite people to DM you.
10. WhatsApp TV Owner
WhatsApp TVs are just status-based platforms where you post content (funny videos, updates, products) and build a large viewership.
How to Make Money:
- Sell ad slots (₦500 – ₦5,000 per post)
- Promote affiliate products
- Sell your service
Just save numbers, post good content, and remain active.
Recommended Guide: 10 best cheap Android phones in Nigeria under ₦50,000 (2025 Guide)
FAQs
Q1: How much can I make online as a student in Nigeria?
It varies on what you are doing and how serious you are. Some of the students earn 5,000/week, others 100,000/month. Begin small and then expand.
Q2: Do I need a laptop to start?
No. You can start with just your smartphone. Later, if you make enough money, you can buy a laptop to do more.
Q3: I have no skill, where do I start?
Start with transcription, typing jobs, or promoting affiliate products. Then watch free YouTube videos to learn more.
Q4: Are all these methods legal?
Yes. All methods listed here are 100% legal, ethical, and safe. Avoid anything that sounds like “double your money” or “investment without work.”
Q5: What is my payment method?
The majority of the platforms use PayPal, Payoneer, or bank transfer payments. As an affiliate marketer in Nigeria you are able to open a free Payoneer account and connect it to your Nigerian bank account.
Conclusion
It is not a scam to make money online in Nigeria as a student with no capital and neither is it a dream, but a reality. It requires concentration, commitment and eagerness to learn. Do not want to do too much at a time.
Pick one, start small, and grow big. Your smartphone can be your money machine if you use it wisely.
