You know how people load their plates at a buffet?

That’s how Nigerians are picking up side hustles (mostly for the added income sha).

And if you’re reading this, you probably want to know a thing or two about how to make more money.

The most straightforward formula for growing wealth is to increase your income and decrease your expenses.

Wouldn’t that be perfect? Then you can save, invest, and maybe even buy a few new shoes.

Sounds simple enough, right?

Well, Nigeria’s stunning (read: dangerous, horrific, scary) inflation is currently everyone’s worst enemy.

According to Macrotrends, the current rate (33.69%) is the highest it’s been since the late nineties, and from the looks of it…

Anyways.

Let it never be said we brought you only news of despair and tragedy.

This week’s article is part two of our Side Hustle series, (if you didn’t read part one, why?) where we scour the globe – ahem, Nigeria, ahem – to bring you Gen Z entrepreneurs who decided that man can not survive on 9-5 alone.

Last time, confectionary connoisseur and baker, Uche Nwokoh, gave us the tea – or should we say, starter – on how she began business, her tips for keeping on during these hard times, her die-hard principles when it comes to pricing and quality, and even clued us in on what she wants her business to be someday.

Meet this week’s Hustler

This week, you’re going to be hearing from Omoikhoje “Khoje” Aitokhaimen, who is a lifesaver in two (very) vital ways; a medical practitioner and the founder of Ayika fashion house (because what’s more life-giving than good clothes?).

Ayika’s Ose Collection

It started as a footwear brand because he needed some extra cash, but he grew to love fashion and rebranded it as a full fashion house.

Talk about pivoting, huh?

Anyway, without further ado, let’s get into it!

Khoje speaks

So, you see, even superheroes have side hustles and are making it work.

Now, on to The Fashion Doctor Index!

The Fashion Doctor Index

Tip: If you don’t want to learn design and tailoring formally, you can also apprentice under a tailor, or have them come to your place and teach you a thing or two.

Local artisans are wells of knowledge and expertise you should leverage!

Starting a side hustle isn’t easy – that’s why it’s a hustle – but, we hope that Khoje has inspired you, even if it’s just a little bit, to monetise your magic and save yourself from poverty.

Before you go, we’re #curious, if Nigeria wasn’t doing how it’s doing, what career path would you be on? Would you still want a side hustle? Or would you stick to your 9-5 jeje?

Tell us in the comments below!