3 Smart Side Hustles Nigerians in Canada Are Using to Make Extra Cash

3 Smart Side Hustles Nigerians in Canada Are Using to Make Extra Cash

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “How do I make more money in Canada without burning out?”—you’re not alone.

A lot of Nigerians in Canada are in the same boat. The cost of living is high, family back home still needs support, and sometimes one income just doesn’t stretch far enough. But the good news? Many are finding simple, flexible ways to boost their earnings without needing a second full-time job or a ton of capital.

In this blog, I’m showing you three smart, low-barrier side hustles that Nigerians in Canada are already doing and succeeding with. These aren’t theories. They’re real, practical options that can fit your lifestyle, help you earn more, and even give you more control over your time.

1. Personal Services — Turn Your Skills Into Cash

Let me ask you: Can you braid hair? Cook delicious meals? Do makeup for events? Or clean a space till it sparkles?

If you answered yes to any of those, you’re already sitting on a side hustle opportunity. Many Nigerians in cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton are using their personal skills—skills they once thought were “just hobbies” to make hundreds of dollars a month.

Here’s how it works:

  • You offer a service—hair braiding, wig revamping, makeup, event cooking, even home cleaning.
  • You market yourself in local Nigerian and African community WhatsApp groups, Facebook groups, or even Kijiji.
  • You build loyal customers who tell others.

The amazing thing is: these services are always in demand. People are constantly looking for trusted hands to do their hair, clean their home before guests arrive, or cook for small events.

And since you're offering a personal service with a cultural connection, you already have an edge.

💡Example:

Sandra, a student in Ontario, started braiding hair on weekends for other students. Today, she earns between $300 to $600/month—just from weekends alone.

Why it works:

  • No need for a license to start.
  • Cash payments = fast income.
  • You set your hours.
  • It's rooted in your existing community.

2. Freelancing — Work From Anywhere, Earn in Dollars

Do you have digital skills like writing, designing, data entry, or managing social media pages? Or maybe you’ve helped a friend write a CV or run their small Instagram page before?

Then freelancing could be your gold mine.

Freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, PeoplePerHour, and even LinkedIn give you access to clients all over the world. And the beauty of freelancing is—you don’t need to leave your room.

Many Nigerians in Canada are now picking up freelance gigs as:

  • Writers or editors
  • Graphic designers
  • Virtual assistants
  • Social media managers
  • Transcribers
  • Data entry clerks

Some even learn a new skill on YouTube, practice for 2 weeks, and start offering it at beginner rates until they grow.

Why you should consider it:

  • Flexible hours: work when you want.
  • Global clients: earn in USD or CAD.
  • Low barrier: just need a laptop, Wi-Fi, and the willingness to learn.
  • Fast payment: Some platforms pay within days.

Tip:

Start by offering affordable rates and over-delivering. Clients will keep coming back and you can raise your prices later.

3. Delivery & Errand Services — Make Money on the Move

Got a car? Or even a bike? Or just your feet and Google Maps?

Then delivery side hustles might be perfect for you.

In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa, Nigerians are signing up for platforms like:

  • Uber Eats
  • DoorDash
  • Instacart
  • Amazon Flex
  • SkipTheDishes

You can also offer private delivery within the Nigerian community—think delivering party food, fashion orders, or African groceries.

What makes this side hustle powerful?

  • You pick your own hours.
  • You can work as much or as little as you want.
  • Pay can be decent—especially during peak hours and weekends.

Emeka in Alberta delivers for Uber Eats during evenings and Sundays. In one weekend, he makes up to $180 in just 6–8 hours. That’s $700+ extra each month.

Even without a car, you can:

  • Partner with stores for local errands.
  • Run a "pick up and deliver" service for Nigerian food sellers in your area.
  • Offer weekend logistics for small events or vendors.

Take Control of Your Earning Power

You don’t need to wait for the “perfect opportunity” or struggle to stretch a single income.

Whether it’s offering personal services, freelancing online, or making deliveries in your city—these side hustles are real, flexible, and already working for many Nigerians in Canada. And the best part? You can start with what you already know or have.

Start where you are. Pick one. Grow it slowly. And keep going. Every extra $100, $200, or $500 you make brings you closer to your financial goals—whether that’s sending money home, saving for a car, or just living more comfortably.

At Paper, we’re here to help make that journey smoother. From smart money tips to fast, secure money transfers back home—we’ve got your back.

👉 Download the Paper app today and let’s make your hustle work harder for you.

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