The Harsh Reality Of Living In Nigeria

As I sit down to write this post, I am filled with a mix of emotions – frustration, sadness, and concern. The state of our economy, the struggles of everyday life, and the seeming indifference of those in power have left me wondering if there’s any hope for a better tomorrow.

The Value of Money

Take, for instance, the value of our currency. The prices of basic necessities like rice, beans, and garri have skyrocketed, leaving many to wonder how they’ll make ends meet. And don’t even get me started on the cost of data plans. It’s as if the telecom companies are taking advantage of our desperation to stay connected.

I look at the #1000 note in my hand, and I am reminded of the harsh reality of our economy and how light weighted our currency is.This amount, which was once considered a decent sum, can barely buy a few essentials today. A spaghetti, a Derica, or half a mudu of rice or beans – all these staples are now beyond the reach of many Nigerians. Even a loaf of bread, which was once a basic necessity, is now a luxury for many.

The Struggle Is Real

I can only imagine the struggles of students in tertiary institutions, who have to survive on meager allowances. How can they be expected to focus on their studies when they are worried about where their next meal will come from? The rise in the price of garri, a staple food for many students, is a stark reminder of the struggles they face every day.

The stress of finding food, paying rent, and covering other expenses must be overwhelming. And what about the young graduates who can’t find jobs, despite their qualifications and eagerness to work? The system seems designed to fail them.

A Cycle of Poverty

The lack of opportunities, the high cost of living, and the scarcity of resources have created a cycle of poverty that’s difficult to break. Many are forced to resort to desperate measures, like prostitution, fraud, or ritual activities, just to survive. And those who manage to find jobs are often underpaid and overworked, with little hope of advancement.

As I reflect on the state of our nation, I am filled with concern about the consequences of this hardship. When people are struggling to survive, they are more likely to turn to desperate measures. The rise in prostitution, fraud, and ritual killings are all symptoms of a deeper problem – a problem of poverty, desperation, and hopelessness.

A Lost Generation 

I fear for the future of our youth, who are growing up in a society that seems determined to crush their spirits. The pressure to succeed, the stress of everyday life, and the lack of support systems are taking a toll on their mental health. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are becoming increasingly common, and it’s heartbreaking to see.

The struggle to make ends meet is not just affecting people’s pockets; it is also taking a toll on their mental health. The pressure to provide for themselves and their families is overwhelming, and many are feeling like they are drowning in a sea of despair.

A Call to Action

So, what can we do to change this narrative? First, we need to acknowledge the struggles of everyday Nigerians and stop pretending that everything is okay. We need to demand more from our leaders, who seem more interested in lining their pockets than in serving the people. We need to support each other, to lift each other up, and to create opportunities where none exist.

As I conclude this post, I am reminded of the need for change. We need a government that is responsive to the needs of its people. We need policies that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty. We need leaders who will prioritize the welfare of their citizens, rather than their own selfish interests.

Conclusion

Living in Nigeria can be tough, but it’s not impossible. We just need to find ways to make it work, to support each other, and to demand better from our leaders. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and our future to create a better Nigeria. To my fellow Nigerians, I urge you to speak out against the injustices that we face every day. Let us demand better from our leaders. Let us work together to create a Nigeria that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all.