Part-time Job Opportunities for Students in Lagos: Don't Get Scammed (Seriously)
okay, so like, let’s talk about hustling in Lagos. it’s… intense. i’ve been here three months, fueled by questionable street suya and a desperate need to pay rent, and honestly, the job market is a whole thing. it’s not like those glossy recruitment ads you see - more like a chaotic scramble for scraps. i’m a touring session drummer, which means i’m perpetually broke, so i’ve been digging around. and let me tell you, some of the stuff you find is… well, let’s just say it’s best avoided.
first off, the weather. it’s this weird, humid heat that just clings to you like a second skin. it’s like stepping into a sauna that’s been left on for a week. and the dust? don’t even get me started. it’s everywhere. you’ll be coughing up sand for days after a short drive. it’s not bad, per se, just… persistent. you know, like that guy who keeps asking for money outside the mall. you just gotta politely decline and keep moving.
*Here’s the lowdown on what’s actually paying (relatively) well:
*Customer Service: Seriously, everywhere. Restaurants, boutiques, even some of the bigger supermarkets. Pay’s usually minimum wage, but it’s a start. Check out Yelp for some decent places to work: Yelp Lagos.
*Tutoring: English, Maths, Sciences - there’s always a demand. Especially if you can speak a bit of French or Pidgin. I heard a rumor from a guy at the bus stop that if you can teach coding, you’re basically royalty. (Don’t quote me on that, though.)
*Event Staff: Concerts, weddings, corporate events… Lagos loves to party. You’ll be on your feet for hours, but the tips can be good. Check out TripAdvisor for event venues: TripAdvisor Lagos Events.
*Delivery Driver: Uber, Bolt, and the smaller local apps are booming. You need a bike or a fairly reliable motorbike. Safety’s a big concern here - stick to well-lit areas and always let someone know where you’re going. Seriously.
*Social Media Management (for small businesses): This is surprisingly popular. Lots of small shops and restaurants need someone to manage their Instagram. If you’re decent with a phone and know how to take a good photo, you could make some cash.
Cost of Living - Let’s be real:Expense Estimated Monthly Cost Rent (Studio) ₦80,000 - ₦150,000 Food ₦30,000 - ₦50,000 Transportation ₦15,000 - ₦30,000 Utilities ₦10,000 - ₦20,000 Internet ₦8,000 - ₦12,000 Total ₦143,000 - ₦272,000
(These are rough estimates. It depends on where you live and how much you spend. Don’t even think about trying to live on ₦80,000. You’ll be eating instant noodles for a month.)
Overheard Gossip (from a market vendor): “Young man, you looking for work? Don’t go with those ‘opportunities’ they advertise online. They want your passport and then… nothing. Go to the mechanic shops, they always need help. And be careful with the ‘online tutors’ - some of them are just trying to steal your data.” Yeah, that’s a vibe.
Another Overheard Rumor (from a Bolt driver): “The best way to make money is to learn how to fix cars. Seriously. Everyone needs a mechanic.” True story, probably.
A Local Warned Me About: “Don’t trust anyone who offers you a ‘guaranteed’ job with a high salary. It’s a scam. Stick to what you know, and hustle smart.” Wise words, my friend. Wise words.
Resources:
Reddit Lagos: Reddit Lagos
Jumia Jobs: Jumia Jobs
LinkedIn: LinkedIn Lagos
Okay, that’s it for now. I’m going to go find some jollof rice and try to figure out how to pay my rent. Don’t be a stranger. And seriously, watch your back out there. Lagos is… a lot.
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