With the situation of the Nigerian economy, it is understandable that many people are looking for ways to earn extra income. Even those with full-time jobs are searching for side hustles to keep up with their expenses. Some take the influencing route, while some take the business route. This has given birth to a wave of online “masters” business owners and influencers holding classes on how to make it in various fields.
As time goes by, Nigerians are beginning to call out these so-called classes. Many complain that after paying these fees, they end up not learning anything. They describe the experience as an absolute waste of time and money. This frustration recently boiled over when Nigerian influencer Amarachi Amusi, popularly known as Ashmusy, announced an online class she tagged “Ashmusy’s Social Media Money,” priced at ₦36,750. The backlash was so much that she had to lock her Instagram comments.
One Instagram user, @florenceanugwo, said: “Leave people alone and teach your family and village people.” Another, @mrkelx, added: “You make so much online, yet you still want to collect from others in master class?”
Clearly, Nigerians are tired of the “online schools”. But this doesn’t mean all online classes are scams. The difference lies in knowing what to look out for before investing your time and money.
So before you pay for an online class, here are five things you should know:
Check the credibility of the teacher
Who is teaching the class? Do they have real experience in the field, or are they just recycling Google knowledge? You need to understand that an influencer flaunting luxury doesn’t automatically mean they can teach you how to succeed.
Look for past reviews
Don’t fall for their sweet and promising words. Search for what past students are saying. A genuine teacher like Hilda Baci has participants openly sharing positive feedback. Here are testimonies from past beneficiaries of her classes: “My cooking went from 1 to 1000 from attending Hilda’s class. I don’t just know how to cook now; I know how to edit and many more.” You need to make your research well. If all you find are vague claims or no reviews at all, that’s a red flag.
Examine what the class offers
Be wary of vague titles like “How to Make Money Online”. A serious class will have a clear outline: modules, duration, and skills you will walk away with. If you can’t tell what you’re paying for, don’t pay.
Compare the price to the value
₦36,000+ for a class? Ask yourself if the skills being promised are worth that amount. Sometimes, what they are teaching can be found free on YouTube or cheaper from more credible platforms. Expensive doesn’t always mean better.
Trust your instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Too much pressure. Don’t fall for phrases like: “limited slots only!”, flashy lifestyles, or secrecy around the content are usually signs of a scam. It’s better to miss out than to waste your money.
