27 Great Businesses You Can Start With 400k in Nigeria

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start a business in Nigeria?

With a budget of 400k, there are many profitable business opportunities you can explore.

As a successful businesswoman who knows her way around the Nigerian market, I am here to share my insights and experience with you.

In this article, I will provide you with a list of 27 businesses you can start with 400k in Nigeria.

You will also find some tips and strategies to help you succeed in business in Nigeria.

First things first:

You have to know that 400k is a small amount of money in Nigeria now.

Two or three years ago, you would have been able to do a lot of things with 400k, but now your options are limited.

But I’ll give you the best that this amount of money can do in Nigeria right now.

For one, the cost of renting a shop will take a huge chunk of that 400k if you decide to rent a shop.

But if by chance you already have a shop, then surely 400k can help you generate more money for you right now.

All these are great business ideas you can start in Nigeria with 400k.

So with that out of the way, here are:

27 Great Businesses You Can Start with 400k in Nigeria.

1. Poultry Farming

This is a great business to start in Nigeria with 400k for several reasons. Firstly, Nigerians love chicken. If you’re Nigerian, I bet you love chicken.

You’ll know this by the amount of fried chicken showcased in several locations.

Secondly, poultry farming is a low-cost business to start. This makes it accessible to many people.

With 400k, you can start a small-scale poultry farm and gradually expand it over time.

Thirdly, poultry farming has the potential to generate a steady income stream.

With proper planning and management, it is possible to make a profit within a few months of starting the business.

2. Snail Farming

If you’ve been a follower of my blog, you’ll know that I always talk about snail farming when it comes to businesses.

The reason is that snail farming is an underrated business.

Apart from loving chicken, Nigerians love meat; anything that’ll make us feel good. Snails have a knack for doing that.

Snail farming requires minimal investment capital, so it’s accessible. You can start your snail farm in the backyard or on a small piece of land.

Snails are easy to care for and require little maintenance, making it a low-stress business to manage.

This business has a high-profit potential.

The last time I bought a kilogram of frozen snails, it went for N20,000.

3. Fish Farming

Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, is a profitable business in Nigeria.

Well, if you’re in Nigeria, you already know that Sundays are for fish barbecues.

Fish farming is a low-cost business to start.

With 200k, you can buy up to 1000 fingerlings of fish that could generate a profit of 100%.

There are different types of fish farming systems, such as:

Cage
Flow-through
Recirculating
Greenhouse systems

The choice of the system depends on the available resources and the type of fish to be farmed.

Fish farming requires a suitable location, such as a pond or tank, and a reliable source of water.

The fish can be fed a variety of foods, such as commercial fish feed or locally available feed, and the fish are easy to care for and require little maintenance.

Check out: 25 Easy Businesses to start with 500k in Nigeria

4. Pig Farming

A lot of people run away from pig farming because of the dirt and everything. But you don’t have to handle the pig yourself; you can pay somebody to do that for you.

Everywhere you go in southeastern Nigeria, you’ll find open barbecues of pork meat.

The pork is obtained from somewhere.

Pig farming requires a suitable location, such as a pigsty or pen, and a reliable source of feed and water.

Pigs can be fed a variety of foods, such as commercial pig feed or locally available feed. Pigs are also easy to care for and require little maintenance.

This business has a high-profit potential.

5. Rabbit Farming

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), an estimated 1.2 billion rabbits are slaughtered annually for meat.

Rabbit or bush meat is a delicacy in many parts of the world, including Nigeria. The rabbits are easy to care for and require little maintenance.

They mostly feed on peels, vegetables, fruits, leaves, carrots, cabbage, etc.Their waste can also be used as fertilizer.

The rabbit farming industry in Nigeria is still growing, and there is a significant market for rabbit products both locally and internationally.

6. Vegetable Farming

Vegetable farming can be a profitable business in Nigeria if done correctly.

To embark on this business, you need to already have a parcel of land.

Nigeria has a large market for vegetables, and there is a high demand for fresh produce.

During the dry seasons, there’s a shortage of most edible vegetables in the market.

This shortage often leads to a hike in prices.

With proper planning, management, and marketing, vegetable farming can be a good business to start with 400k.

It is important to research the best crops to grow in your area, as well as the most profitable markets to sell them in.

7. Plantain Farming

Plantain farming is something a lot of people fail to think about, but you can make a lot of money doing this business.

Plantain is a staple food in Nigeria and is used in various dishes such as plantain chips, plantain bread, plantain soup, and plantain casserole.

To start a plantain farm, it is important to select a suitable site with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight.

You can find land in your village or lease one from somebody in town.

Having your land is always better.

Plantain requires regular watering and fertilization.

It is important to manage pests and diseases to ensure a healthy crop.

Harvesting of plantain can begin after 9-12 months, and the yield can be sold to local markets or processed into other products.

With proper planning and management, plantain farming can be a profitable business in Nigeria.

8. Palm Oil Production

Palm oil is the most widely produced, consumed, and traded vegetable oil in the world.

Nigerians use palm oil for everything.

From margarine to lipstick, biscuits to candles, and chocolate to laundry detergent.

It is also extensively used as a biofuel and as animal feed.

According to Our World in Data, global palm oil production has increased rapidly over the past 50 years, from 2 million tonnes in 1970 to 71 million tonnes in 2018.

The rise in demand for vegetable oils has driven the increase in palm oil production.

So if you’re looking for a business to tap into,

Then I recommend you lean how to start palm oil business in Nigeria.

But one thing: you have to be ready to get dirty.

Whether you’re buying the oil from small-time producers or you have a mill of your own.

9. Fashion Design

Fashion design is the art of applying design, aesthetics, and natural beauty to clothing.

Women love to look good, and they’ll pay you big money to make them so.

But for you to get into this type of business, you’ll have to make time to learn how it is done.

Fashion design requires creativity, technical skills, and knowledge of fashion trends.

This business is highly competitive.

Success requires talent, hard work, and a strong business sense.

It is also highly profitable.

10. Restaurant Business

Most people do not eat at home when they go to work in Nigeria.

They get to eat when they return home at night.

This is a gap you can tap into in the country.

The restaurant business involves the preparation and serving of food and drinks to customers in a dining establishment.

You can make yours unique by serving only breakfasts or by preparing fast foods for lunch.

To be successful in this business, all you have to do is look at successful restaurants around you.

They often offer high-quality food and drinks, a pleasant atmosphere, and excellent service.

11. Boxers Business

Now, this is a form of e-commerce business you can start in Nigeria.

But instead of buying any other thing, your main business will be on male underwear.

To start this type of business, you have to get down and do some investigation where you’ll buy boxers for a good price.

Here’s my recommendation: Finelib.com.

Now, you don’t need to have a shop for this.

You can market these boxers with social media ads or if you have the energy, you can hawk them yourself.

But to make the most money in this business, find a way to bargain for a good price, then sell the boxers you get to the people who sell boxers on the street.

12. Mini Provision Store

With as little as 400k, you can start a mini-provision store business that can yield substantial profits over time.

One reason is that the demand for provisions is always on the rise, owing to the country’s increasing population.

Another reason is that a mini-provision or grocery store requires relatively low overhead costs.

You can buy a container with your 400k and look for a good location to place it.

A good 6×6 container can be gotten for N120k in Nigeria.

The rest of the money can then be used to stock your shop with the necessary items that people most require.

How to start a provision store business in Nigeria.

13. POS Business

POS Businesses You Can Start With 400k in Nigeria

One of the key advantages of starting a POS business is that it can be highly profitable.

Another advantage of starting a POS business is that it can be relatively easy to get started.

Unlike some other businesses that require a significant upfront investment in equipment or inventory, a POS business can be launched with minimal capital.

However, starting a successful POS business requires more than just a good idea and a little bit of capital.

It also requires a deep understanding of the market, as well as the ability to deliver high-quality products and services that meet the needs of customers.

The most basic requirement for starting a POS business is finding a spot in a good location, then a table and a chair.

After that, the next thing would be to get the POS machine you would use for operations.

I have a list of the best POS machines you can go for if you decide to launch this business.

14. Snack Vending Machines

Snack vending machines are a great business opportunity for entrepreneurs with 400k.

Unlike other businesses that require expensive equipment, inventory, and rental space, a snack vending machine business can be started with minimal overhead costs.

The main things to buy in this business are your:

Show glasses
Cooking ware and
Ingredients for making snacks.

With a tool such as ChatGPT, there’s no end to the number of snacks you can make.

Snack vending machines can generate a steady stream of passive income.

Once a vending machine is installed, it can operate 24/7, generating sales even when you are not present.

Make sure it’s situated in a safe place.

15. Online Clothing Store

Starting an online clothing store in Nigeria with 400k can be a promising venture due to the country’s growing e-commerce market.

Many people are now buying things with their phones from the comfort of their homes.

With a population of over 200 million people, many of whom are young and fashion-conscious, there’s a substantial customer base to tap into.

Since your business is online, there is no need to pay for rent.

All you have to do is to set up an ecommerce shop.

You can watch this video on YouTube to know how to do that.

But I highly recommend you invest in an e-commerce course.

Doing so will save you the stress and time you’ll spend looking for information yourself.

16. Shawarma Store

A shawarma store is a type of business that specializes in selling shawarma.

If you’re Nigerian, then I guess you already know what I mean.

But if not, shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made of meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb), vegetables, and spices, wrapped in pita bread or a wrap.

A profitable shawarma store can be launched with 400k.

And to add some flavor to your business, you can also work with logistic companies to offer home delivery of your product.

However, starting a successful shawarma store requires more than just a good idea and a little bit of capital.

You have to be willing to adapt and learn.

Not everybody is going to like the Shawarma you make, and some customers can be rude.

But you can easily deal with this if you learn how to communicate with people better.

17. Buy and Sell on Facebook Marketplace

Starting a buy-and-sell business on Facebook Marketplace is a great opportunity.

I know because I’ve done it myself.

With as little as 400k, you can start a buy-and-sell business on Facebook Marketplace that can yield substantial profits over time.

All you have to do is join several Facebook groups where buying and selling take place.

The most items to buy are:

Electronics
Furniture, like beds
Freezers
Phones
Rentals.

The good thing about this business is that you do not have to pay for rent or spend the whole income at once.

Just sit down and look at something people are engaging with. Then buy it and list it for sale again.

You can easily be making 5k and 10k daily from this business from the comfort of your home.

Over the years, Facebook has become a hub for many people in Nigeria.

With over 33 million active users in Nigeria, Facebook provides a large and diverse market for entrepreneurs to tap into.

18. Tailoring for Schools

One of the reasons why tailoring for schools is a great business to start with 400k in Nigeria is that it provides a constant demand for uniforms.

As schools require uniforms for their students, there is always a steady stream of orders for tailors who specialize in making school uniforms.

The most expensive thing about this business is that you have to be in a good location.

And you have to know how to sew.

But if you can rent a tailor, it’s even better.

Here’s the trick to this business:

Find a good location, buy a sewing machine, and hire a tailor.

Then network with people who are in positions of power. People who can give you work.

Once you position yourself and find a school to work with, you’ll be making money for years to come.

19. Quail Farming

This farming is a great business to start with 400k in Nigeria because it is way cheaper than running chicken poultry.

Quails are small birds, and farming them can be done in a relatively small space. Quail meat and eggs are considered to be delicacies in many parts of the world, including Nigeria.

It is a profitable business because quails can grow pretty fast.

They have a high reproduction rate and can yield multiple generations in a short period.

20. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate Marketing Businesses with 400k in Nigeria

Affiliate marketing is a business where you refer a seller to a buyer and get a commission.

This is similar to what happens when an agent brings a tenant to a landlord.

One thing about affiliate marketing is that you can do it from the comfort of your home.

First, get yourself a computer – a laptop – then invest in a good phone.

After that, the next thing is to get yourself an affiliate marketing course. This is like a guideline that’ll show you what to do and what not to do.

The great thing about affiliate marketing is that after investing in a laptop, phone, and course, you won’t have to spend any more money.

When you’ve learned everything in the course, you’ll then join a platform where you’ll get access to different products from different people.

The course will show you how to offer it to the right people who need it for you to make your commission.

Commissions in affiliate marketing can range from as low as N1k to as high as N1 million for one product.

21. Cleaning Business

One big reason why a cleaning business is a great business to start with 400k in Nigeria is that it’s easy to get into.

A cleaning business can be started today if you want.

The main thing to have in this business is cleaning equipment like:

Brushes
Detergents
Brooms
Scalper
Mops, and of course,
Buckets.

You’ll also have to hire a couple of people, but this should be done when you get a job.

The best method that I’ve found in this business is by running Facebook ads.

With an ad spend of N2k a day, you can get a contract that’ll keep you working for the next two or three months nonstop.

22. SEO Consultancy

SEO Consultancy Businesses with 400k in Nigeria

Starting an SEO consultancy with $400k is a smart and promising choice.

In today’s digital landscape, businesses are increasingly reliant on their online presence to succeed.

This is where your SEO expertise comes in.

First, you have to learn what SEO is and how it is done.

This could take you 6 months, but these 6 months are enough to change your life.

Check out this article to see how much SEO specialists are earning monthly in Nigeria.

Your initial investment can cover aspects such as:

Setting up a professional website
Marketing your services, and
Acquiring necessary tools.

As your consultancy gains traction and secures clients, the returns can be substantial, enabling you to reinvest in advanced SEO tools, hire a talented team, and expand your service offerings.

23. Egg Supply Business

With N150,000, you can buy as much as 100 crates of eggs.

Now, before buying these eggs, you have to make sure you already have a place to keep them while selling them.

The success of an egg supply business depends on various factors, such as:

Market demand
Competition, and
Business strategy.

It’s important to have a reliable source of eggs and a means of transportation for distribution.

Overall, starting an egg supply business with 400k in Nigeria is a good opportunity.

The best way to sell your eggs when you get them is by going to shops around your area and meeting face-to-face with your customers.

This way, you’re not only selling your eggs, you’re also building relationships with people.

24. Okrika Business

Starting an Okrika business in Nigeria is a good business opportunity, especially now that the prices of everything in the market keep going up.

Many people are choosing to opt for used items instead of new ones.

You can start a profitable Okrika business in Nigeria with N60,000 Naira.

However, if the intention is to start the business with a bale of clothes, normally 100kg, then you should budget N100,000 Naira to N300,000.

It’s important to note that the success of an Okrika business will depend on various factors, such as:

Your location
The type of clothes you sell
The quality, and
The price of your merchandise.

There are several areas of the Okrika business you can tap into;

You can either sell sweaters or sports attire.

However, sweaters can be seasonal, so I wouldn’t recommend that.

If you’re someone who is more open-minded, you can go for pants and bras for women.

There’s a lot of money to be made in this business, and the good thing is that it is highly underrated.

25. Candle Business

Candles are popular items that can cater to a wide range of customers.

Most people who buy candles seek ambiance, relaxation, and gifting options.

To begin your candle business, start by sourcing cost-effective yet quality materials such as:

Wax
Wicks
Fragrances, and
Basic packaging.

When creating your candle, it’s important that you have a signature scent or a unique selling point to differentiate your candles from others in the market.

Handcrafted and locally-made products often carry a special appeal, so focus on the craftsmanship of your candles.

For selling, you can start through local markets or even sell directly to friends and family.

Social media can also be a powerful tool to showcase your products and build a loyal customer base.

Invest time in creating visually appealing posts, sharing behind-the-scenes content, and interacting with potential customers.

26. Perfume Business

Perfumes are highly sought-after products for personal use and gifting, making them a lucrative market to tap into.

There are two ways you can venture into the perfume business with 400,000 Naira.

The first is by buying from wholesalers who have mastered the art of buying exotic perfumes and selling them in tiny bottles.

You can buy this perfume in batches of 15 or 20 for N500 a bottle.

Then you resell them to your customers for N1000.

This is a simple business that can make you a lot of money fast.

The second way to go into this business is by making the perfume yourself, but this can be intensive.

With a tool like ChatGPT, you can learn how to make perfumes yourself.

27. Bed Sheet Business

Launching a bed sheet business in Nigeria with an investment of 400,000 Naira is a promising venture.

You can sell one bed sheet at N1000 or N2000 profit.

Bed sheets are essential household items, and the consistent demand for quality bedding presents a profitable opportunity.

By focusing on material selection, comfort, and appealing designs, you can create a range of bed sheets that cater to various preferences and bed sizes.

The good thing about the bed sheet business is you don’t have to import them.

You can source good cotton materials in the market, then get a good tailor to sew them, and voila, you’re in business.

To sell your bed sheets, run advertisements on social media platforms.

Or you can visit the market and sell to shop owners.

Always make sure to offer them deals they cannot refuse, and you’ll be counting money.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there are numerous business opportunities you can explore with a budget of 400,000 Naira in Nigeria.

Whether you’re interested in agriculture, retail, service-based businesses, or online ventures, there’s potential to start and grow a profitable business.

Remember that the key to success lies in thorough research, proper planning, and a strong commitment to delivering value to your customers.

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