How Do Writers Make Money in Nigeria? Practical Guide for 2025

 

Introduction – The Rise of Writers in Nigeria

Nigeria is a land full of stories. From bustling Lagos streets to quiet villages in Anambra, every corner has a narrative waiting to be told. Writers, whether poets, bloggers, journalists, or novelists, are the voices that shape these experiences into something powerful.

But here’s the big question: how do writers make money in Nigeria?

For years, many believed writing was just a passion project, not a career. Yet, with the rise of the internet, digital publishing, and global freelancing platforms, Nigerian writers are turning words into wealth. Whether it’s through selling books, writing articles, or building personal brands, opportunities are everywhere—if you know where to look.

Let’s explore the proven ways writers in Nigeria earn an income today.

1. Freelance Writing – Turning Skills Into Cash

Freelance writing has become one of the most accessible ways for Nigerian writers to make money. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and ProBlogger connect writers with clients around the world.

Why it Works in Nigeria:

• Writers can earn in dollars, which is a huge advantage considering the naira’s exchange rate.

• Flexible hours—many writers combine freelancing with school, business, or full-time jobs.

• Low entry barrier—if you can research, write, and communicate well, you can start.

Real-Life Example:

Chinonso, a 24-year-old graduate from Enugu, began freelance writing during NYSC. By focusing on health and lifestyle niches, he built a steady client base and now makes between $500–$1,000 monthly.

👉 Pro Tip: Specialize in a niche. Clients pay more for experts. If you’re good at tech, finance, or health, brand yourself as a subject-matter writer.

2. Blogging and Content Creation

Blogging isn’t dead—in fact, it’s thriving in Nigeria. With millions of internet users hungry for information, entertainment, and news, blogging remains a solid income stream.

How Nigerian Bloggers Make Money:

• Google AdSense – displaying ads on websites.

• Affiliate Marketing – promoting products like Jumia or Amazon items for a commission.

• Sponsored Posts – brands pay to feature their products.

• Ebooks and Courses – bloggers sell knowledge directly.

Local Insight:

Blogs like Linda Ikeji’s Blog turned personal storytelling into a multi-million naira empire. Even smaller niche blogs on food, tech, or music can earn steady income.

👉 For writers who enjoy long-form content, starting a blog is one of the best ways to build passive income.

3. Publishing Books – From Print to Digital

Nigeria has a rich tradition of literature—think Chinua Achebe, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Wole Soyinka. While traditional publishing is still alive, digital self-publishing has opened new doors.

Options for Writers:

• Traditional Publishing Houses – harder to break into, but offers prestige.

• Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) – self-publish globally without leaving Nigeria.

• OkadaBooks – a Nigerian e-publishing platform designed for local readers.

Income Potential:

While sales vary, writers who market well can earn hundreds of thousands monthly. Digital books are cheaper to produce and can reach international audiences.

👉 Tip: Don’t just write one book. Build a series or publish consistently to create a loyal readership.

4. Copywriting and Content Marketing

Businesses in Nigeria need good writers to create website copy, product descriptions, and social media content. Copywriting is not only in demand but also high-paying.

Why Copywriting Pays Well:

• Companies understand the link between good writing and sales.

• Demand for digital marketing is rising in Nigeria.

• Copywriters can charge per word, per project, or even a percentage of sales.

Example:

An Abuja-based writer trained in copywriting and began offering services to e-commerce brands. Within a year, she was charging ₦100,000 per sales page.

👉 If you love persuasive writing, copywriting may be your golden ticket.

5. Screenwriting and Nollywood Opportunities

Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, is the second largest in the world by output. Every year, thousands of films are produced, all requiring writers to script dialogues, screenplays, and storylines.

Opportunities for Writers:

• Film scripts

• TV shows and web series

• Comedy skits and YouTube scripts

With streaming services like Netflix investing in Nigerian productions, the demand for quality screenwriters is rising.

6. Music and Lyrics Writing

Yes, writers also make money in the Nigerian music industry. Behind every hit song is often a songwriter who creates the lyrics. With Afrobeats dominating globally, lyric writing is now a lucrative niche.

👉 Platforms like Spotivik even help musicians and songwriters promote and monetize their content. Writers who specialize in songwriting can collaborate with upcoming artists, sell lyrics, or co-write tracks that earn royalties.

7. Teaching, Coaching, and Workshops

Experienced writers can earn by teaching others. This could be through online courses, workshops, or one-on-one coaching.

Examples:

• Offering “How to Write for the Web” classes on WhatsApp or Telegram.

• Selling writing courses via Udemy or Selar.

• Hosting writing bootcamps in Nigerian universities.

Many Nigerian students and professionals want to improve their writing—this demand creates income opportunities.

8. Journalism and Media

Traditional journalism isn’t as lucrative as it once was, but digital journalism is booming. Writers can work with online newspapers, lifestyle magazines, or run independent newsletters.

• Freelance contributions to Punch, Guardian, or Daily Trust.

• Launching independent newsletters on Substack or Beehiiv.

👉 Stat: According to Reuters Digital News Report (2024), Nigeria is one of the fastest-growing digital news markets in Africa.

9. Social Media Ghostwriting

Did you know many CEOs, influencers, and politicians don’t write their own tweets or LinkedIn posts? Writers are hired to craft engaging content behind the scenes.

Ghostwriting pays well because it’s discreet and tied to reputation. A skilled ghostwriter can earn anywhere from ₦50,000 to ₦300,000 per month per client.

10. Grant Writing and NGO Proposals

Nigeria has thousands of NGOs and community organizations. These groups constantly need writers to draft proposals for funding. Grant writing is specialized, but very profitable.

👉 A successful proposal can bring millions in funding, so NGOs value and pay skilled writers handsomely.

11. Write and Earn 

There are many platform that offer write and earn in Nigeria but i strongly recommend Spotivik to you , in this platform you can write and earn in this platform up to 3 naira per one view.

Conclusion – Writing as a Career in Nigeria

So, how do writers make money in Nigeria? The truth is, there’s no single path. From freelancing and blogging to copywriting, screenwriting, and publishing, opportunities are everywhere.

The key is to leverage your strengths, choose a niche, and build consistency. Nigerian writers who adapt to digital platforms, build personal brands, and learn marketing skills are the ones making real money.

If you’ve ever doubted that writing can pay the bills in Nigeria, it’s time to rethink. With creativity, persistence, and platforms like Spotivik supporting content creators, writing can evolve from passion to profession.

FAQ – How Writers Make Money in Nigeria

1. Can you make a living as a writer in Nigeria?
Yes. Many Nigerian writers earn steady income through freelancing, publishing, copywriting, and digital content creation.

2. What’s the fastest way to make money writing in Nigeria?
Freelance writing and copywriting are the quickest ways, especially if you can attract international clients who pay in dollars.

3. Do Nigerian writers earn from blogging?
Absolutely. Bloggers earn via Google AdSense, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and selling digital products.