A recent study by Moniepoint has revealed that Nigeria’s night economy is becoming increasingly organized and driven by digital payments, with community bars and neighbourhood hangouts accounting for most of the activity and serving as key points where diverse consumer goods and brands are purchased.
The report, titled The Business of Community Nightlife in Nigeria, examined payment transactions across more than 27,000 nightlife businesses on Moniepoint’s network and included interviews with operators in several cities.
According to the findings, everyday venues such as roadside bars, suya spots, and small lounges generate a large share of economic activity at night, contrary to the popular belief that nightlife is dominated by luxury clubs and premium entertainment spots.
The study also showed a strong shift away from cash transactions. Bank transfers emerged as the most widely used payment method during peak hours, significantly exceeding card payments. Many business owners now prefer digital payments because of security concerns linked to handling cash at night.
Spending activity typically rises from the evening hours and reaches its highest point before midnight, after which transaction levels begin to drop even when venues remain busy. Operators use these patterns to plan staffing, inventory, and daily operations.
The research further highlighted the employment impact of the sector. Many neighbourhood bars increase their workforce on busy nights, contributing to an estimated 54,000 people working in nightlife-related roles across the country each night.
Moniepoint’s Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Tosin Eniolorunda, said the findings show that nightlife businesses play a more important economic role than is often recognised.
He noted that local operators contribute significantly to employment and economic activity and should receive greater policy attention alongside other sectors.
The data also showed that spending at nightlife venues is not limited to drinks and entertainment. Food purchases form a steady source of income for many operators, with meals and bottled water often recording consistent sales, especially early in the evening.
Geographically, nightlife transactions were recorded across several states, indicating that the sector extends beyond major urban entertainment centres.
The report also found that many nightlife operators seek business loans mainly for improvements such as lighting, furniture, renovations, and sound equipment aimed at attracting customers.
Moniepoint said the research forms part of its effort to provide deeper insights into sectors of the economy that are often underreported despite their economic relevance.
