Starting a business in Nigeria doesn’t always require millions. With as little as ₦500,000, you can kick off a solid business that generates daily or monthly income — especially if you play it smart and stay consistent.
In this guide, we’ll show you 10 profitable business ideas you can start with ₦500,000 or less in Nigeria, how they work, and why they’re worth considering in 2025.
Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, or Owerri, these ideas can help you become your own boss this year.
1. Mini Importation Business
Startup Capital: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000
Monthly Profit: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
How to Start:
Source hot-selling products like Bluetooth speakers, fashion accessories, or smartwatches on sites like 1688.com.
Use a local agent to ship goods to Nigeria or Ghana.
Resell on WhatsApp, Jumia, Instagram, or offline markets.
Tip: Focus on lightweight items to reduce shipping cost.
2. POS (Point of Sale) Agent
Startup Capital: ₦400,000 – ₦500,000
Monthly Profit: ₦80,000 – ₦200,000
How to Start:
Apply for a POS machine from platforms like Moniepoint or Opay.
Set up in a busy area—close to markets or schools.
Offer cash withdrawals, deposits, bill payments, and airtime.
Tip: Provide fast, honest service—customer retention is everything.
3. Foodstuff Packaging & Retail
Startup Capital: ₦300,000 – ₦450,000
Monthly Profit: ₦120,000 – ₦200,000
How to Start:
Buy bulk foodstuff (rice, beans, garri, crayfish) from wholesale markets.
Repackage into 1kg, 2kg, or 5kg sizes with branded nylon.
Sell online or to busy families, caterers, and restaurants.
Tip: Delivery services can boost your reach and customer base.
4. Catfish Farming (Small Scale)
Startup Capital: ₦250,000 – ₦450,000
Monthly Profit: ₦100,000 – ₦300,000
How to Start:
Set up a concrete or tarpaulin pond.
Buy juvenile catfish and feed.
Grow them over 4–6 months and sell to hotels or cold rooms.
Tip: Keep proper records and ensure good water management.
5. Snail Farming
Startup Capital: ₦200,000 – ₦400,000
Monthly Profit: ₦80,000 – ₦250,000
How to Start:
Build a small pen or hutch using old tires, baskets, or blocks.
Start with at least 100 Achatina species (giant snails).
Feed with vegetables and monitor moisture.
Tip: Snails reproduce fast and are high in demand by restaurants and exporters.
6. Perfume Oil Business
Startup Capital: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
Monthly Profit: ₦100,000 – ₦250,000
How to Start:
Buy original long-lasting perfume oils in bulk.
Repackage into 3ml, 6ml, 10ml bottles.
Market via Instagram, WhatsApp TVs, and office rounds.
Tip: Offer “scent testing” samples and free delivery for bulk orders.
7. POS + Bill Payment Kiosk (Combo Model)
Startup Capital: ₦500,000
Monthly Profit: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
How to Start:
Combine POS services with DSTV/GOTV subscription, data top-up, and WAEC/NECO PIN sales.
Add in photocopying and phone charging for walk-in income.
Use a branded umbrella or container shop.
Tip: Combine fast service with small add-ons like sachet water and snacks.
8. Crypto & Gift Card Trading with Astro Africa
Startup Capital: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000
Monthly Profit: ₦150,000 – ₦400,000
How to Start:
Sign up on Astro Africa.
Accept gift cards (like Razer Gold, Apple, Steam, AMEX) and crypto from buyers.
Sell them instantly for Naira or Cedis on the app or website.
Withdraw to your local bank.
Tip: High resale value cards like Razer Gold, Steam, and Apple yield better profits.
Read also:
How To Plan for a Vacation with Low Budget (Full Guide for Nigerians & Ghanaians)
How to Apply for International Passport Online in Nigeria (2025 Guide)
9. Shawarma & Small Chops Business
Startup Capital: ₦400,000 – ₦500,000
Monthly Profit: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
How to Start:
Buy a grill, gas cylinder, shawarma machine, and small food stand.
Set up in high-traffic areas during evenings.
Partner with dispatch riders for home deliveries.
Tip: Post behind-the-scenes videos of your prep to attract attention online.
10. Phone Accessories Retail
Startup Capital: ₦200,000 – ₦500,000
Monthly Profit: ₦100,000 – ₦250,000
How to Start:
Buy in bulk from Alaba, Computer Village, or import from China.
Sell on social media and deliver nationwide.
Stock trending items—iPhone chargers, power banks, fast cables, and AirPods.
Tip: Bundle your products with discounts (e.g. charger + pouch combo).
FAQs on Starting Business With ₦500k
Q: Can I start a profitable business with ₦500,000 in 2025?
A: Yes. Many small-scale businesses like POS, thrift clothing, and trading gift cards can be started with ₦500k or less.
Q: What business gives daily income?
A: POS, food delivery, and laundry services often provide steady daily returns.
Q: Can I trade gift cards with my ₦500k?
A: Absolutely. Platforms like Astro Africa allow you to safely trade gift cards and crypto for cash anytime.
Q: Is ₦500k enough for mini importation?
A: Yes, if you start with affordable but fast-moving items and use reliable shipping options.
