It is no news that finding a good job in Nigeria can be quite challenging. How, then, can you make money after the completion of their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)? For some people, it’s time to further their education, while for others, it’s time to join the labor market struggles.
The good thing is that during the 12-month service year, corps members are encouraged to participate in the Skills Acquisition Programme (SAED) so as to have something to fall back on after the service year.
Here are 7 things you can do to make money after NYSC.
1. Learn a High-Income Digital Skill
Skills are very important in this age we are in. Start by knowing the career path, then choose the skill you want to learn, especially those in demand, such as UI/UX design, product management, data analysis, and software development.
You can learn through platforms like Coursera and Udemy, then monetize through jobs or freelance gigs.
2. Graduate Trainee Roles
This is the most traditional route and the fastest way to build a career. You can convert your PPA into a permanent role or apply for graduate trainee programs across industries like banking, tech, consulting, and FMCG.
3. Freelancing
If you have skills like writing, graphic design, social media management, or video editing, you can apply for freelance jobs and gigs and earn in dollars on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. This is one of the fastest ways to start earning with little to no capital.
4. Tutoring
If you are good at teaching and coaching, then this is a perfect option for you. Pick a subject you excel at and find parents whose kids need a tutor. Also, leverage social media and sign up for online tutorial platforms like Prep Class and Preply to hasten the process.
5. Content Creation
One of the fastest ways to make money in these times is through content creation. Pick a niche and start creating content on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.
Once you grow an audience, you can earn through:
- Brand deals and sponsorship
- Ads
- Affiliate marketing
- Digital Products
6. Start a Handwork Business
You don’t need a huge amount of capital to start a business. What are you good at? You can consider popular options like tailoring, catering, food delivery, baking, photography, videography, jewelry, shoemaking, candle making, etc.
READ: Everything To Know About Starting a Secondhand Business In Nigeria
7. E-commerce/Mini-importation
You can start an e-commerce and mini-importation business by sourcing high-demand, low-price products (clothes, fashion items, home decor, home appliances, etc.) from international suppliers in China, like 1688, and then selling them to make money. The best part is that you need low capital to start, and you can leverage online marketing like social media (Instagram Shop, TikTok, WhatsApp Business, etc.) and a website to drive sales and get customers.
You can also do dropshipping, a retail model where you sell products without holding inventory. When customers make an order, your supplier ships directly to them.
