5 Small Businesses You Can Start in Yaba With Little Capital

Living in Yaba, Lagos, gives you access to students, workers, residents, and potential customers. If you have been thinking about starting a small business but don't know what to sell, here are five products you can consider.

1. Thrift Clothes (Okrika)

Thrift clothing is one business idea worth exploring, especially if you understand fashion trends and know where to find quality items.

You can buy individual pieces or source clothes in bulk, then resell them through WhatsApp Status, Instagram, and local customer networks.

Example: If you buy a piece for ₦1,500 and sell it for ₦3,000, your gross margin is ₦1,500 before other expenses.

2. Hair Extensions and Braiding Weaves

Hair products can attract regular customers because many people buy extensions for different hairstyles.

You could begin with a few popular colours, such as black, brown, and gold, instead of investing in too many varieties.

Example: Buying an item for ₦5,000 and selling it for ₦8,000 gives you a gross margin of ₦3,000 before transport and other costs.

3. Snacks and Small Chops

Chin chin, plantain chips, peanuts, and other packaged snacks can be sold to students, workers, and people around your neighbourhood.

You can start with a small production batch, package everything neatly, and test demand before increasing production.

Consider selling affordable packs between ₦500 and ₦1,000, depending on your production costs and local demand.

4. Data and Airtime Reselling

Another business idea is reselling mobile data and airtime through a reliable vendor or wholesale platform.

You don't necessarily need a physical shop. You can advertise your service on WhatsApp Status and serve customers directly from your phone.

Example: If a data bundle costs you ₦400 and you sell it for ₦500, your gross margin is ₦100 per successful transaction. Your actual profit depends on supplier charges and other expenses.

5. Perfume Oil

Perfume oils are another product you can consider selling. Some customers prefer small bottles because they are convenient and may be more affordable than larger perfumes.

You can begin with a few fragrances, test which ones customers like, and gradually expand your selection.

For example, if you buy a bottle for ₦1,500 and sell it for ₦2,500, the gross margin is ₦1,000 before packaging and other expenses.

Which Business Should You Start With?

These are illustrative budget ideas, not confirmed current market prices. Actual startup costs depend on suppliers, quantities, quality, and other expenses.

My Advice: Start With One Product

You don't have to sell all five products immediately. Choose one that matches your budget, skills, and the customers around you.

• Research your suppliers before buying.
• Start with a small quantity and test demand.
• Advertise consistently on WhatsApp and Instagram.
• Keep records of purchases, sales, and expenses.
• Reinvest carefully instead of spending all your revenue.

Final Thoughts

Starting a small business does not always require a big shop or huge capital. Sometimes, the best approach is to identify a product people need, test the market, and grow gradually.

However, no business guarantees daily profit. Your results will depend on pricing, product quality, customer demand, competition, and how well you manage the business.

Which of these five businesses would you like to start: thrift clothes, hair products, snacks, data reselling, or perfume oil? Share your choice in the comments.