Street Businesses That Can Make Good Profit in Nigeria

 

In Nigeria, there’s a growing trend of people turning to street businesses for a steady income. Whether it’s in bustling cities like Lagos or quieter towns, the streets are alive with opportunities. From food stalls to handy services, street businesses cater to the everyday needs of locals, making them essential for both urban and rural areas.

But what makes these businesses so special? Their low startup cost and ability to thrive on minimal investment make them a perfect choice for anyone looking to enter the entrepreneurial world without breaking the bank. Are you curious about how to tap into this world of profitable street business opportunities? There’s a wide range of options available that can generate good returns. Some require just a little creativity and hustle, while others demand specific skills.

If you’ve been wondering which businesses could make a significant profit on the streets of Nigeria, keep reading! From food vendors to hairdressers and even bicycle rentals, these business ideas could be the key to unlocking financial independence.

Top 20 Profitable Street Business Ideas in Nigeria

 

1. Food Vendor (Suya, Shawarma, Fried Yam, and Akara)

Street food is a huge part of Nigerian culture, and food vendors have a consistent customer base. Suya (grilled meat) and shawarma are particularly popular, offering both local and international flavors. Setting up a small food stall in high-traffic areas could see you making anywhere from ₦5,000 to ₦50,000 a day, depending on location and customer demand. All you need is a grill and some great seasoning!

Pros:

1. High demand, especially in busy urban areas and during the evenings.
2. Low startup costs with minimal equipment needed.
3. Easily scalable as your customer base grows.

Cons:

1. Weather-dependent (rainy weather may affect sales).
2. Requires maintaining hygiene standards to avoid health issues.
3. High competition in busy markets.

 

2. Roasted Corn and Groundnut Seller

A much-loved snack across Nigeria roasted corn and groundnuts are sold easily on the streets, especially in the evenings. The smell of freshly roasted corn attracts people looking for a quick bite. The low startup cost, coupled with constant demand makes this a profitable venture. If you’re in a location with plenty of foot traffic, you could make decent profits with little effort.

Pros:

1. Low-cost startup with minimal equipment.
2. Consistent demand, especially in the evenings and during cooler weather.
3. Simple business model with a high-profit margin.

Cons:

1. Can be weather-dependent (rainy season may affect sales).
2. Limited variety of products to offer, so customer appeal may be seasonal.

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3. Fresh Fruit Juice Stand

As people become more health-conscious, fresh fruit juice stands are popping up everywhere. With tropical fruits like pineapples, oranges, and watermelons in abundance, you can easily set up a fresh juice stand that offers customers a refreshing break from the heat. The best part? It’s a business that can be started with little investment and operated daily.

Pros:

1. The growing market for healthy, fresh beverages.
2. Low overhead costs and simple setup.
3. It Can be operated in high-traffic areas like schools, markets, and parks.

Cons:

1. Perishable items that need quick sales.
2. Requires regular replenishment of fruit stock.
3. It Can be affected by supply issues depending on the seasonality of fruits.

 

4. Cold Drinks and Bottled Water Sales

In a country with a hot climate like Nigeria, there’s always demand for cold drinks and bottled water. Whether you set up shop outside a busy market or on the roadside near a bus stop, people will appreciate the convenience of grabbing a cold drink. This business is easy to manage, and you don’t need much to get started, just coolers, ice, and a variety of drinks.

Pros:

1. It is essential for hydration, especially in hot climates.
2. Low startup costs and easy to manage.
3. High demand during hot seasons or in busy areas.

Cons:

1. Can face stiff competition from other vendors.
2. Requires a constant supply of ice to keep drinks cold.
3. It can be affected by power outages or cooling issues.

 

5. Mobile Phone Repairs and Accessories

With the increase in mobile phone usage, mobile phone repairs have become a booming business. Offering quick fixes like screen repairs, and battery changes, or selling accessories such as phone cases and chargers can bring in steady revenue. People prefer the convenience of having their phones fixed on the go, which makes this business a great option for tech-savvy entrepreneurs.

Pros:

1. High demand as mobile phone usage increases.
2. Offers good profit margins on repairs and accessories.
3. Low startup costs if you already have the necessary skills.

Cons:

1. Requires technical knowledge and experience in phone repairs.
2. The constant need to stay updated on new phone models and trends.
3. It can be highly competitive with other repair businesses.

6. Used Clothing or Thrift Store (Okrika)

Thrift stores, or Okrika as they’re locally known, are an extremely profitable street business in Nigeria. Many people are on the lookout for affordable, gently used clothes. The demand for second-hand clothing has risen, especially in urban areas. You can sell items like shoes, shirts, pants, and dresses, all at budget-friendly prices.

Pros:

1. Growing demand for affordable clothing, especially second-hand items.
2. It has a low startup cost, and you can easily find stock in bulk.
3. it is profitable with high margins if you select quality items.

Cons:

1. The quality of items may vary, requiring careful selection.
2. It can be difficult to differentiate from other thrift vendors.
3. It needs regular inventory replenishment to keep stock fresh.

 

7. Car Wash Services

Everyone needs a clean car, and car washes are a popular business in Nigerian cities. Whether you choose to operate from a fixed location or offer mobile car washing services, this is a great business to start with little investment. You can make ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 daily depending on how busy your location is.

Pros:

1. Steady demand for vehicle cleaning in urban areas.
2. The low initial investment with the potential for high returns.
3. Flexibility in operating as a mobile service or fixed location.

Cons:

1. It can be physically demanding, especially in busy seasons.
2. Weather-dependent (rain may reduce customer turnout).
3. Requires quality cleaning materials to maintain customer satisfaction.

8. Shoe Repair and Polishing

People are always looking for ways to maintain their shoes and other leather goods. If you have the skills to repair and polish shoes, this street business could be very rewarding. It’s a low-cost business that only requires basic tools, and since many people prefer to repair their shoes rather than buy new ones, you’re sure to find customers.

Pros:

1. A niche market with steady demand, especially in busy areas.
2. Low investment, and can be operated with minimal space.
3. High-profit margins on repairs and polishing.

Cons:

1. Requires specific skills, and you must be good at shoe repairs.
2. It can be affected by seasonal demand (e.g., fewer customers in the rainy season).
3. It can be slow if there’s little foot traffic in the area.

 

9. Hairdressing and Hair Braiding Services

The demand for hairdressing and braiding services in Nigeria is enormous. Whether it’s braids, weaves, or cuts, people are always looking for affordable hair services. By setting up a small stand or making house calls, you can generate a steady income. It’s a skill-based business that can thrive with regular customers.

Pros:

1. High and consistent demand for hair services in both urban and rural areas.
2. Skill-based business with the opportunity for repeat customers.
3. Low-cost investment and easy to set up.

Cons:

1. Requires significant skill and experience in hairdressing or braiding.
2. It can be physically taxing due to the long hours.
3. It requires a comfortable and attractive setup to appeal to clients.

 

10. Tailoring and Sewing Services

There’s always a need for tailoring and alteration services, especially for custom-made clothing or quick fixes. If you’re skilled in sewing, this could be a lucrative business idea with low overhead. You can easily start from home or set up a mobile tailoring shop in a high-traffic area.

Pros:

1. High demand for custom-made clothing and alterations.
2. Low-cost startup with the ability to work from home.
3. Flexible work schedule and potential for repeat clients.

Cons:

1. Requires sewing skills and a good understanding of fashion.
2. It needs consistent customer flow to stay profitable.
3. Competition can be tough in areas with other tailors.

11. Fried Rice and Jollof Rice Stall

Jollof rice and fried rice are two of Nigeria’s favorite dishes, and having a street stall where people can grab a plate is a guaranteed way to attract customers. It’s a business that’s especially profitable in busy neighborhoods and market areas.

Pros:

1. Popular local dishes with high demand in markets and busy areas.
2. Easy to set up with simple equipment.
3. Potential to attract a large customer base due to local popularity.

Cons:

1. It can be weather-dependent (rainy season may affect sales).
2. It requires a large space to prepare and store ingredients.
3. It needs good hygiene practices to avoid health concerns.

 

12. Mobile Charging Station

In areas with limited access to electricity, a mobile charging station could be a game-changer. Offering phone charging services for a small fee is both useful and profitable, especially in crowded locations where people need their phones to stay connected.

Pros:

1. High demand in places with limited electricity supply.
2. Low startup cost with a mobile setup option.
3. Profitable with a large customer base in high-traffic areas.

Cons:

1. It needs reliable power sources to avoid interruptions.
2. Requires daily maintenance and monitoring of devices.
3. Can face competition from nearby stations or public charging points.

 

13. Second-hand Footwear Sales

Similar to clothing, selling second-hand footwear is profitable and widely accepted. From sandals to sneakers, many people prefer purchasing affordable pre-owned shoes. The demand for such items is particularly high in local markets.

Pros:

1. High profit margin on second-hand shoes.
2. Affordable for customers, especially in low-income areas.
3. Consistent demand in busy markets and shopping areas.

Cons:

1. It needs careful sourcing to ensure the quality of the shoes.
2. Competition from other second-hand vendors.
3. Requires space for display and storage.

14. Small Chops (Finger Foods)

Nigerians love small chops, and bite-sized snacks like puff-puff, samosas, spring rolls, and meat pies. Setting up a small chop stand at events or in busy areas can help you earn a decent income. It’s an easy-to-manage business with high customer demand.

Pros:

1. Easy to prepare and highly profitable.
2. It high demand for snacks like puff-puff, samosas, and spring rolls.
3. Flexible setup can be operated from a small cart or stall.

Cons:

1. Requires good knowledge of snack preparation.
2. Health and hygiene concerns must be addressed properly.
3. Seasonal demand may affect sales in certain months.

 

15. Popcorn and Groundnut Seller

These are cheap, popular snacks that can be sold almost anywhere, making them highly profitable. Whether it is a bus stop or a park, selling popcorn and groundnuts is an excellent street business, especially since people love quick, on-the-go snacks.

Pros:

1. Simple and low-cost business model.
2. High demand in public places, especially during events and festivals.
3. Low overhead costs and easy to operate.

Cons:

1. Limited variety of products, which could affect sales.
2. Requires location planning to attract customers.
3. It can be impacted by weather (e.g., less demand during rainy periods).

 

16. Mobile Laundry Services

If you have a washing machine and transportation, you could offer mobile laundry services or dry cleaning services. This service is especially attractive to busy professionals who may not have time to wash their clothes. It’s a relatively new but growing business idea in Nigerian cities.

Pros:

1. High demand, especially in busy urban areas.
2. Convenience of offering laundry services at people’s doorsteps.
3. It has low overhead and no need for a physical store.

Cons:

1. Needs reliable transport for picking up and delivering laundry.
2. Requires good washing and ironing skills.
3. It can be difficult to compete with established laundry businesses.

17. Selling Herbal Medicine and Local Remedies

Herbal medicine has a long history in Nigerian culture, and many people trust natural remedies for various ailments. If you’re knowledgeable about local herbs and their uses, this business could bring in a steady stream of customers, especially in areas with a strong reliance on traditional medicine.

Pros:

1. Steady demand for traditional medicine and local remedies.
2. It can be a highly profitable business if you know herbal products.
3. Niche market with limited competition.

Cons:

1. Requires knowledge and experience in herbal medicine.
2. Regulation issues related to selling medicinal products.
3. Trust and credibility are essential to attract customers.

 

18. Bicycle or Motorbike Rental

Whether for short trips around town or a day out, renting bicycles or motorbikes is a profitable business. This type of service is particularly useful in tourist spots or urban areas with heavy traffic. It offers a flexible income with minimal investment.

Pros:

1. High demand in tourist areas and urban centers with heavy traffic.
2. Low investment and flexibility in pricing.
3. Potential for repeat customers, especially for tourists.

Cons:

1. Requires proper maintenance and care for bikes or motorbikes.
2. It may need a larger investment if renting out motorbikes.
3. Safety concerns for riders could affect business.

 

19. Fresh Flowers Sales

Selling fresh flowers can be very profitable, especially during special occasions like weddings or public holidays. All you need is a small kiosk or stall, and with the right variety of flowers, you can easily attract customers.

Pros:

1. It has a steady demand for flowers for events, holidays, and personal gifts.
2. Low investment and relatively easy to manage.
3. Can attract customers in high-traffic locations.

Cons:

1. Perishable items that need quick turnover.
2. Limited market during non-event periods.
3. Requires consistent quality and variety of flowers to remain competitive.

 

20. Selling Agricultural Products (Vegetables, Fruits, Grains)

If you have access to fresh produce, selling fruits, vegetables, and grains can be a highly profitable venture. Fresh produce is always in demand, and this business idea works well for anyone with a connection to local farms or agricultural hubs.

Pros:

1. Constant demand for fresh produce, especially in markets.
2. Direct access to farming sources can reduce costs.
3. Low-cost setup and potential for high returns.

Cons:

1. Perishable items that require proper storage.
2. It can be challenging during periods of low crop yields.
3. Needs regular stock replenishment to meet customer demands.

Frequently Ask Questions and Answers

1. What are the most profitable street businesses to start in Nigeria with low capital?

Some of the most profitable street businesses with low capital include food vending (like suya, shawarma, and fried yam), selling roasted corn and groundnuts, mobile phone repairs, and small chops (finger foods). These businesses typically require minimal startup costs and offer high returns with the right location and customer base.

 

2. How do I choose the best street business for me in Nigeria?

To choose the best street business, consider your skills, interests, and the needs of the community you plan to serve. It’s also important to think about the location, busy markets, bus stops, and areas with high foot traffic tend to be the best spots for street businesses. Additionally, consider the seasonal demand, costs, and competition in the area.

 

3. What skills are needed to succeed in street businesses in Nigeria?

The skills required vary depending on the business. For food-related businesses, cooking and food safety knowledge are crucial. For services like mobile phone repairs, having technical skills is essential. In businesses like tailoring or hairdressing, practical skills and experience are key to building a loyal customer base. Basic customer service and management skills will help in most types of street businesses.

 

4. What are the challenges of running a street business in Nigeria?

Some of the main challenges include dealing with weather conditions (such as rain affecting outdoor sales), managing competition from other vendors, ensuring a consistent supply of products, and handling customer expectations. Additionally, street businesses may face challenges related to hygiene, regulatory compliance, and maintaining equipment in good working condition.

 

Conclusion

Starting a street business in Nigeria doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive! From food vendors to mobile services, numerous opportunities require minimal investment and offer substantial returns. The key is finding a business that matches your skills, interests, and the needs of the people around you.

So, whether you’re passionate about cooking, fixing phones, or offering a much-needed service, there’s a street business waiting for you to tap into. The possibilities are endless, now it’s up to you to take the first step!