oc2much@yahoo.com1. Overview
Mobile phones are ubiquitous in Nigeria, and airtime and data bundles are in constant demand. Starting a mobile recharge kiosk allows you to sell prepaid airtime, data bundles, and even offer mobile money services.
This business is simple, low-cost, and highly profitable, with potential earnings of ₦10,000 per day for a small kiosk operating in a busy neighborhood. It can also scale into a full-service telecom or fintech hub over time.
Unlike other businesses, a recharge kiosk provides daily cash flow, making it ideal for small-scale entrepreneurs who want quick returns.
2. Market Opportunity
- Target customers: Students, office workers, local residents, and shop owners.
- Trend: Rising mobile phone usage, increasing demand for data, and popularity of e-wallets.
- Competition: Low to moderate; location and accessibility determine profitability.
- Growth potential: High; you can also sell SIM cards, mobile devices, and accessories to complement revenue.
A kiosk located near schools, offices, or busy streets ensures consistent foot traffic and sales.
3. Startup Cost Breakdown (₦)
| Item | Cost (₦) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small kiosk/stand | 40,000 | Can be rented space or DIY setup |
| Recharge terminal / POS device | 15,000 | MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile |
| Initial airtime & data stock | 30,000 | Prepaid and bulk data bundles |
| Branding & signage | 10,000 | Attractive posters and display |
| Miscellaneous | 5,000 | Electricity, stationery, small accessories |
| Total Startup Cost | ₁00,000 |
Tip: Start small with only airtime and data bundles; expand to SIM sales and mobile accessories later.
4. How to Earn ₦10,000 Daily
Revenue comes from markup on airtime and data bundles, plus convenience fees for mobile money or bill payment services.
- Pricing example:
- Markup per ₦500 recharge: ₦20–₦30
- Markup per ₦1,000 recharge: ₦40–₦50
- Daily sales target:
- Sell ₦50,000 worth of airtime and data/day
- Profit at 20% markup = ₦10,000/day
- Additional revenue streams:
- Mobile money transactions: ₦50–₦100 per transaction
- Bill payments (DSTV, PHCN, etc.)
- SIM card sales and top-ups
- Monthly projection:
- ₦10,000/day × 25 working days = ₦250,000/month net profit
5. Step-by-Step Business Guide
- Secure a location: Choose high-traffic areas like markets, bus stops, or near schools.
- Obtain recharge terminals: Register with MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile, or independent distributors.
- Stock airtime and data bundles: Keep popular denominations for ease of sale.
- Brand your kiosk: Clear signage, attractive display, and neat arrangement.
- Market locally: Flyers, word-of-mouth, and WhatsApp groups for promotions.
- Offer complementary services: Mobile money, bill payment, and SIM sales.
- Track sales and profits: Use a notebook or spreadsheet to monitor daily cash flow.
6. Challenges & Tips
Challenges:
- Electricity and internet connectivity issues
- Competition from nearby kiosks
- Theft or cash handling risks
Tips:
- Use a POS or digital wallet to reduce cash handling
- Offer fast, friendly service to attract repeat customers
- Maintain a small but consistent stock of popular bundles
- Partner with local businesses for bulk sales or daily customers
7. Profit Projection
| Metric | Value (₦) |
|---|---|
| Daily revenue | 50,000 |
| Daily profit | 10,000 |
| Monthly profit | 250,000 |
| Operating costs | 50,000 |
| Net monthly profit | 200,000 |
| Break-even timeline | <1 month |
| ROI first month | 200% |
With expansion into mobile accessories or multiple kiosks, net profit can rise to ₦400,000+ per month.
8. Feasibility Verdict
Feasibility: High
- Very low startup cost
- High and constant demand for airtime and data
- Quick cash flow and easy scalability
- Minimal technical skills required
9. Conclusion
A mobile recharge kiosk + data bundle service is one of the simplest and most profitable small businesses in Nigeria. With low startup capital (~₦100,000), you can earn ₦10,000 daily while serving a growing customer base.
By strategically locating your kiosk, maintaining stock, and offering additional services like mobile money or bill payments, this business can become a stable, high-cash-flow venture for any Nigerian entrepreneur.
