A Guide to Legitimate Money-Making Apps in Nigeria (2025)

The gig economy in Nigeria is flourishing, with many platforms offering opportunities to earn extra income. These apps are changing how people work, providing flexible earning methods ranging from freelancing to surveys and referral bonuses. In this guide, we’ll explore legit, high-paying apps in Nigeria and provide a comprehensive breakdown of how to maximize your income on each platform.

1. Opay – Earn with Referrals and POS Services

Opay is a popular Nigerian fintech platform that provides mobile payment services, POS agent services, and cashback rewards. The platform also offers multiple earning opportunities through its referral program and agent commissions.

How to Sign Up:

1. Download the Opay app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Create an account using your phone number.
3. Verify your identity through the in-app KYC (Know Your Customer) process.
4. Set up your payment method and bank details.

Earning Methods on Opay:

1. Referral Program:
   • You can earn ₦800 for every new user who signs up using your referral code.
   • To make substantial income, aim for at least 50 referrals per month, earning ₦40,000 monthly.
   • Pro Tip: Use social media platforms to run referral campaigns, offering small incentives to those who sign up with your code.
2. POS Agent Services:
   • Become an Opay agent to offer cash withdrawal and deposit services in your community.
   • Requirements: A smartphone, a stable internet connection, and an initial deposit for purchasing the POS machine.
   • Profit Potential: Agents typically earn between ₦20 to ₦50 per transaction, depending on the volume. High-traffic areas can yield significant monthly income.
3. Cashback Offers:
   • Opay offers cashback on airtime purchases, data plans, and utility payments.
   • To maximize cashback, make all your bill payments through Opay.

Challenges:

• Referral fatigue may set in, so constantly explore creative marketing methods to expand your reach.
• POS agents need to invest in reliable internet and security to avoid disruptions and fraud.

2. Fiverr – Freelance Services for Global Clients

Fiverr is a leading global freelancing platform where Nigerians can offer services ranging from graphic design and content writing to social media management.

How to Sign Up:

1. Visit the Fiverr website or download the app.
2. Create an account using your email address.
3. Set up your seller profile and list your skills.

Earning Strategies:

1. Niche Down:
   • Instead of offering general services, focus on micro-niches. For instance, offer “Instagram Reels editing” instead of general video editing.
   • Micro-niches help you stand out in a competitive market.
2. Optimize Your Gig:
   • Use descriptive titles like “Professional Logo Design for E-commerce Stores.”
   • Add keywords to your gig description to improve visibility in Fiverr’s search results.
3. Upsell Services:
   • Offer additional services such as faster delivery or premium designs for a higher fee.
   • On average, upselling can increase your earnings by 20-30%.

Realistic Income Potential:

• Beginners may earn around $100 to $200 monthly. Experienced sellers with positive reviews can make over $1,000 per month.

Challenges:

• Competition is fierce, so focus on building a strong portfolio and collecting positive reviews to gain credibility.

3. PalmPay – Bonuses and Task-Based Rewards

PalmPay is a digital wallet app in Nigeria that offers cashback, referral bonuses, and other promotional rewards.

How to Sign Up:

1. Download the PalmPay app.
2. Create an account and complete the KYC verification process.
3. Set up your wallet and link it to your bank account.

How to Earn on PalmPay:

1. Referral Program:
   • Earn ₦600 per referral.
   • Aim for at least 30 referrals per month to earn ₦18,000.
2. Task-Based Rewards:
   • Participate in challenges, such as making a certain number of transactions to earn bonus rewards.
   • Keep track of promotions through the app’s notification system.
3. Cashback Offers:
   • Receive up to 5% cashback on airtime purchases and bill payments.

Challenges:

• Task-based rewards can be sporadic, so be proactive in checking the app for new offers.

4. Google Opinion Rewards – Get Paid for Surveys

Google Opinion Rewards pays users for participating in quick surveys about consumer behavior.

How to Sign Up:

1. Download the Google Opinion Rewards app.
2. Complete your profile to receive relevant surveys.
3. Start answering surveys as they become available.

Earnings Potential:

• Each survey typically pays ₦100 to ₦300.
• While not a full-time income source, regular users can earn around ₦3,000 per month.

Challenges:

• Survey opportunities may be limited, so diversify your income sources.

5. Jumia Partner Program – Affiliate Marketing Opportunities

Jumia’s Partner Program allows affiliates to earn commissions by promoting products on the Jumia marketplace.

How to Sign Up:

1. Visit the Jumia Partner Program website.
2. Create an affiliate account.
3. Start promoting Jumia products using your unique affiliate links.

Earning Strategies:

1. Focus on High-Demand Products:
   • Promote trending items like electronics or fashion to maximize conversions.
2. Use Multiple Platforms:
   • Share product links on Facebook, Instagram, or your blog for greater exposure.

Challenges:

• Affiliate marketing success requires consistent content creation and strategic promotion.

6. NairaWorkers – Microtask Platform

NairaWorkers is a microtask platform that allows Nigerians to earn money by completing small tasks such as liking social media pages, watching videos, or writing reviews.

How to Sign Up:

1. Visit the NairaWorkers website.
2. Create an account with your email address.
3. Complete your profile and start accepting available tasks.

How to Earn on NairaWorkers:

1. Task Completion:
   • Perform simple tasks like subscribing to YouTube channels, sharing Facebook posts, or completing surveys.
   • Tasks typically pay between ₦50 and ₦200, depending on the complexity and the employer’s budget.
2. Job Posting:
   • Create and post tasks for others to complete. If your business has social media needs, leverage the platform to generate engagement while earning through task management.
3. Referral Program:
   • You can earn by referring others to the platform, though referral bonuses are modest compared to larger platforms.

Earnings Potential:

• Consistently completing tasks can yield around ₦10,000 to ₦30,000 monthly, depending on the number of tasks and the time invested.

Challenges:

• Task availability is inconsistent, and higher-paying tasks can be highly competitive.

7. Uber/Bolt – Earn as a Rideshare Driver

Uber and Bolt are Nigeria’s leading rideshare services, providing drivers with flexible earning opportunities by offering transportation services to passengers.

How to Get Started:

1. Vehicle Requirements: Ensure your vehicle meets Uber/Bolt’s standards for cleanliness, safety, and age.
2. Sign up on the app and upload required documents (driver’s license, vehicle insurance, etc.).
3. Pass the background check and vehicle inspection.

Earning Methods:

1. Rideshare Services:
   • Drive passengers across your city and earn fares. Earnings are based on ride distance, time, and demand.
   • Surge pricing can significantly boost earnings during peak hours.
2. Referral Program:
   • Refer new drivers to the platform and earn referral bonuses, typically ₦10,000 or more per referral.
3. Incentives:
   • Both Uber and Bolt offer weekly bonuses to drivers who complete a certain number of trips within a specified time frame.

Earnings Potential:

• On average, Uber and Bolt drivers earn ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 monthly, depending on the number of hours worked and demand in their city.

Challenges:

• Vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and platform fees can eat into profits. Staying safe on the road is also a concern for some drivers.

8. TikTok – Monetize Your Creativity

TikTok has grown into one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, providing multiple ways for creators to earn money through content creation.

How to Get Started:

1. Download the TikTok app and create an account.
2. Choose a niche that aligns with your interests (e.g., comedy, educational content, beauty tips).
3. Post regularly to build your audience.

Earning Methods:

1. TikTok Creator Fund:
   • TikTok pays eligible creators based on their video views and engagement. You’ll need at least 10,000 followers and 100,000 video views in the last 30 days to qualify.
2. Sponsored Posts:
   • Brands may pay creators to promote products or services. Build a large following to attract sponsorships.
3. Live Gifts:
   • Go live and encourage viewers to send virtual gifts, which can be converted into cash.
4. Merchandise Sales:
   • Sell branded merchandise or partner with e-commerce platforms to sell products through TikTok’s in-app features.

Earnings Potential:

• Beginners may earn a few thousand naira monthly, while top influencers can make ₦100,000 or more from sponsorships and the Creator Fund.

Challenges:

• TikTok’s algorithm is unpredictable, making consistent growth challenging. Building a loyal following requires creativity and persistence.

9. Payoneer – Global Payment Solutions

Payoneer is a payment platform that allows freelancers and small business owners to receive international payments. While it doesn’t directly offer tasks or jobs, it provides critical financial services for Nigerians earning from global marketplaces.

How to Get Started:

1. Sign up on the Payoneer website.
2. Complete KYC verification.
3. Link your Payoneer account to platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Amazon.

Earning Strategies:

1. Freelance Payments:
   • Use Payoneer to receive payments from clients and freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.
   • The platform supports multiple currencies and provides favorable conversion rates.
2. Affiliate Program:
   • Refer new users to Payoneer and earn $25 for each referral who receives at least $1,000 in payments.

Earnings Potential:

• Payoneer users don’t earn directly from the platform, but freelancers using it can streamline their income management and save on international transfer fees.

Challenges:

• Transaction fees may apply for certain services, so consider your transfer options carefully.

Also Read :

Top 10 Essential Mobile Apps Every Nigerian Should Have in 2025

How to Make Money Selling on Jumia and Konga in Nigeria: A Step-by-Step Guide

10. YouTube – Earn from Video Content Creation

YouTube remains one of the most popular platforms for earning passive income through video content creation. Creators in Nigeria can monetize their channels through ads, sponsorships, and product sales.

How to Get Started:

1. Create a YouTube Channel:
   • Sign in with your Google account and set up a channel.
   • Choose a niche that aligns with your interests or expertise (e.g., tech reviews, comedy, educational content).
2. Content Creation:
   • Invest in quality content production by using a good camera and editing software. Consistency and value are essential for growing your audience.
3. Meet Monetization Requirements:
   • You need at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time in the past 12 months to apply for YouTube’s Partner Program (YPP).

Earning Methods:

1. Ad Revenue:
   • Once approved for YPP, ads will be displayed on your videos. You earn money based on ad views and clicks.
   • Earnings vary depending on your niche, video engagement, and location of viewers.
2. Channel Memberships:
   • Offer exclusive content or perks to paying subscribers for a monthly fee.
3. Super Chats and Super Stickers:
   • These are available during live streams, allowing viewers to send tips or donations that appear as highlighted messages.
4. Brand Sponsorships:
   • Brands may pay you to promote products in your videos, especially if your channel has a large or niche audience.
5. Merchandise Sales:
   • You can sell branded merchandise or partner with print-on-demand companies.

Earnings Potential:

• Small creators may earn a few hundred naira monthly, while successful creators can make ₦100,000 or more from ad revenue, sponsorships, and memberships.

Challenges:

• YouTube’s monetization requirements can be difficult to meet for beginners. Maintaining a consistent upload schedule and adapting to algorithm changes are also essential.

Comparison Table: Best Money-Making Apps in Nigeria (2025)

Choosing the Right App for You

When selecting the best app to earn money, consider your skills, time availability, and income goals.

• Freelancing Platforms (Fiverr, Upwork): Ideal for individuals with specific skills like writing, graphic design, or web development.
• Microtask Platforms (NairaWorkers): Great for quick, simple tasks with minimal time commitment.
• Rideshare Apps (Uber/Bolt): Suitable for those with reliable vehicles and a flexible schedule.
• Content Creation Platforms (TikTok, YouTube): Best for creative individuals willing to invest time in building an audience.
• Payment Management (Payoneer): Essential for freelancers and small business owners receiving international payments.

Conclusion

Making money through apps in Nigeria has never been easier, with countless platforms offering opportunities for freelancers, content creators, and even microtaskers. While each app has its unique features, maximizing your earnings depends on consistency, dedication, and smart strategies.

To maximize your income:

• Be Consistent: Regular engagement on each platform will increase your earning potential.
• Diversify: Rely on multiple apps to create a steady income stream.

Ready to start earning? Explore these apps today, and take control of your financial future in 2025!