The conversation is everywhere. Should young Nigerians focus on climbing the corporate ladder, or should they pour energy into side hustles that might one day replace their 9–5s? In a country where inflation bites harder every quarter, salaries stagnate, and “soft life” is expensive, this is more than a debate — it is survival strategy.
The Case for Salary
A steady salary is structure. It comes with predictability, access to loans, pensions, health insurance, and a clear career path. For many Nigerians, the salary is the anchor that allows them to dream bigger. Employers still respect “stable income” when you’re applying for a visa, renting an apartment, or trying to access credit.
In 2025, with more companies formalising hybrid and remote work, salaries are also coming with flexibility that was once only possible with freelancing. For those who thrive on security and clear progression, prioritising salary makes sense.
The Case for Side Hustle
Side hustles are freedom. They carry no salary cap and no boss. The growth is directly proportional to effort, creativity, and network. From freelance design gigs on Upwork to baking, writing, social media management, photography, fashion, tech consulting, content creation, or tutoring, side hustles are no longer “extra”; they are survival.
In 2025, side hustles are also less stigmatised. Employers know that one stream of income is risky in Nigeria, so many are tolerating (and sometimes supporting) side projects. A side hustle can grow into a full business that dwarfs your salary, giving you financial independence far quicker.
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We spoke to different people — from corporate loyalists to serial hustlers — and their stories show how money, survival, and dreams collide in this economy.
Kunle, 27, Product Designer
“Salary gives me peace of mind. I work at a tech startup in Lekki, and every 25th, my account is credited. That stability lets me budget properly, pay rent, and send my mum something monthly. People say, ‘Kunle, start a hustle, design logos for extra cash.’ But the truth is, my 9–5 is already intense. If I add too much, I’ll crash.
What people don’t admit is that side hustles also need energy and marketing. Sometimes, I’d rather rest than chase one more client. For me, salary is not just money — it’s structure.”
Anita, 24, Fashion Entrepreneur
“My first job in HR paid ₦120k. Between transport, feeding, and family support, I was always broke by the second week. I started making Leather bags as a side thing. At first, I sold only five bags a month. By 2023, I was earning more from bags than my salary. By 2024, I resigned.
It wasn’t easy. I cried some nights when customers owed me or when orders failed. But now, I decide how much I want to earn. Salary gave me stability, but side hustle gave me freedom.”
Tunde, 29, Banker
“Let’s be real. Not everyone can succeed with a side hustle. I tried forex trading in 2021. Lost ₦400k, money I saved from my bank job. That experience humbled me. I went back to my salary and decided to focus on career growth.
Salary might not make you rich, but at least it’s steady. I use part of mine to invest in mutual funds. I don’t chase hustles I can’t manage anymore. I learnt the hard way.”
Bisola, 22, Content Strategist
“I balance both. My salary pays my bills, and my freelance gigs fund my savings. I do social media management for small businesses on weekends. My boss knows, but I make sure my work doesn’t suffer.
Honestly, if you rely only on salary, you’ll just survive. Side hustle is what allows me to save, travel, and dream. But it’s stressful too. Sometimes I feel like I’m living two lives.
Salary is survival. Side hustle is security.”
Femi, 32, Ex-Corporate, Now Logistics Entrepreneur
“I used to work in a multinational. Salary was ₦450k. Respectable. But I hated the politics and the pressure. I left to start a logistics business with a friend. First year, we almost folded. We lost about ₦7m because of fuel scarcity and stolen bikes.
Today, we’re stable and I make about ₦900k monthly, but some months it’s less. Do I regret leaving my salary? No. But I’ll tell anyone: don’t jump until you’ve saved enough. Passion won’t pay rent.”
Florence, 24, Teacher with a Baking Side Hustle
“My salary is ₦150k. I love teaching, but if I rely on it alone, I’ll drown. I bake cakes on weekends. During Valentine, I made almost ₦400k from orders. That money paid my rent.
Without the hustle, I’d still be owing. Salary keeps me afloat, but hustle is what makes life livable.”
So, Salary or Side Hustle in 2026?
- If your salary can cover essentials, use it as a base. Grow career capital, then invest or fund side hustles smartly.
- If your salary is too small, side hustle becomes necessary. But don’t glamorise it, it’s hard work.
- If you can balance both without burning out, you build the strongest shield against Nigeria’s uncertainty.
Now, there’s no universal answer. Salary offers stability, side hustle offers freedom. The smartest move is knowing your reality: Are you surviving, scaling, or securing? Whatever you choose, don’t chase trends blindly. Choose what aligns with your energy, goals, and season of life. Plan for 2026 and decide wisely.
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