Being a student at Federal Polytechnic Bauchi (FPTB) doesn’t mean you have to be broke. With the rising cost of living and education, many students are looking for smart ways to earn money while still in school. The good news? Bauchi provides a lot of opportunities for students to hustle legally, even on a low budget.
This article outlines 10 profitable business ideas for FPTB students that require little capital, flexible time, and have great potential in 2025.
1. Graphic Design & Printing
Students and staff always need flyers, ID card designs, and project printing. If you're creative, you can offer services in:
- Flyer design
- Business cards
- Assignment formatting and printing
Startup Cost: ₦10,000–₦20,000 (basic laptop/software + printer access)
Potential Profit: ₦5,000–₦30,000/month
Tip: Use free tools like Canva and promote in WhatsApp groups.
2. Haircut & Hair Styling
Barbers and stylists are always in demand, especially in Gwallameji and Yelwa. You can operate from a small corner or do home service within campus hostels.
Startup Cost: ₦5,000–₦15,000 (clippers, kits)
Potential Profit: ₦10,000–₦50,000/month
Tip: Offer student discounts and loyalty bonuses.
3. Reselling Thrift (Okrika) Clothing
Trendy clothes sell fast on campus. Go to Muda Lawal market and pick quality “first grade” thrift wear, then resell at a profit to fellow students.
Startup Cost: ₦5,000–₦20,000
Profit Margin: 100%+
Tip: Use WhatsApp TV or group marketing. Instagram also helps.
4. Phone Accessories & Charging Business
Everyone owns a phone, and charging points are not always reliable in Bauchi. You can sell:
- USB cords, chargers, power banks
- Offer pay-per-charge services during blackouts
Startup Cost: ₦80,000–₦150,000
Potential Profit: ₦30,000–₦50,000/month
Tip: Partner with shop owners around school gates or open a table.
5. Catering / Small Chops
If you love cooking, start making snacks like puff-puff, meat pies, or egg rolls. Sell during lectures or events.
Startup Cost: ₦5,000–₦10,000
Profit Per Event: ₦2,000–₦10,000
Tip: Target departmental programs and religious fellowships.
6. Recharge Card & Data Reselling
This is one of the easiest hustles. Use platforms like Gsubz.com or Gladtidings.com.ng to buy recharge cards and sell to other students.
Startup Capital: ₦2,000+
Monthly Profit: ₦3,000–₦10,000 (or more)
Tip: Add extra profit margin of ₦20–₦50 per card.
7. Freelance Writing / Blogging
If you’re good with words, you can offer writing services online or even start a blog like Nmedia.
- Academic projects
- Assignments and term papers
- Online blog posts and content writing
Startup Cost: ₦0 – ₦5,000 (internet + phone/laptop)
Monthly Profit: ₦10,000 – ₦50,000+
Tip: Create a Fiverr or Upwork account. Also, promote on Nairaland.
8. Laundry Services
Students who are too busy or lazy to wash will happily pay. Offer washing and ironing services right in your hostel or off-campus.
Startup Cost: ₦3,000 – ₦10,000 (detergent, iron, buckets)
Monthly Income: ₦10,000 – ₦30,000
Tip: Offer pickup/delivery to hostels for extra cash.
9. Mini Importation / Dropshipping
You can order affordable items like phone cases, makeup kits, and wristwatches from platforms like Alibaba or Jumia, then resell them at a profit.
Startup Cost: ₦15,000 – ₦30,000
Profit Per Sale: ₦1,000 – ₦5,000
Tip: Sell on WhatsApp status or set up a small Instagram store.
10. Event Photography & Videography
Departmental dinners, matriculation, and convocation ceremonies are always happening. If you have a smartphone with a good camera or a digital camera, you can make good money.
Startup Cost: ₦0 – ₦50,000 (depends on equipment)
Per Event Profit: ₦5,000 – ₦30,000
Tip: Offer instant photo printing using a borrowed printer or partner with printing shops.
🧮 Summary Table: Business Ideas for FPTB Students
| Business Idea | Startup Cost | Potential Profit (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design | ₦10k – ₦20k | ₦5k – ₦30k |
| Haircut/Styling | ₦5k – ₦15k | ₦10k – ₦50k |
| Thrift Sales | ₦5k – ₦20k | High Margin |
| Phone Accessories | ₦80k – ₦150k | ₦30k – ₦50k |
| Small Chops | ₦5k – ₦10k | ₦2k – ₦10k/event |
| Recharge Resell | ₦2k+ | ₦3k – ₦10k |
| Freelance Writing | ₦0 – ₦5k | ₦10k – ₦50k |
| Laundry | ₦3k – ₦10k | ₦10k – ₦30k |
| Importation | ₦15k – ₦30k | ₦1k – ₦5k/item |
| Photography | ₦0 – ₦50k | ₦5k – ₦30k |
🎓 Final Thoughts
As an FPTB student, you don’t need millions to start a business. All you need is an idea, consistency, and smart promotion. Most of these businesses can be started on campus with little money and expanded after graduation.
Choose one that aligns with your skills and passion, and you’ll be surprised how much you can earn while studying!
📚 References
- Interviews with 12 FPTB students & small vendors (May 2025)
- Nairaland Education Forum
- Data collected from local markets in Yelwa and Gwallameji
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