Nigerians Upbeat About Xmas Despite Economic Headwinds
Nigerians are currently in the frenzy of Christmas with preparations for the birth of Jesus Christ in high gear.
Christmas is a special time that brings joy and togetherness to people all over the world. In Nigeria, the holiday season holds a particularly significant place in the hearts of its people.
However, with the current economic challenges and the soaring prices of essential items, some may wonder how Nigerians will continue to celebrate in the face of adversity. But let me tell you, the spirit of resilience runs deep within Nigerian culture.
When it comes to Christmas traditions in Nigeria, some unique and vibrant customs make the holiday season truly special.
One popular tradition is the decoration of homes and streets with colorful lights and ornaments as seen at Marina by UBA Plc, at Ajose Adeogun junction by Zenith Bank, and in the premises of major hotels across the country.
Now, Idumota in Lagos and the entire Lagos island is home to shoppers for the latest fabrics and clothing to adorn when they attend church services, where they sing carols and listen to special Christmas messages, and afterwards, visit friends and families to celebrate together.
A cherished tradition is the exchange of gifts among family and friends, symbolizing love and goodwill. And of course, no Nigerian Christmas celebration is complete without delicious feasts filled with traditional dishes like jollof rice, fried rice, and assorted meat.
Another interesting tradition is the “Christmas Carnival”, where the streets come alive with colorful parades, music, and performances. Did you know that in some parts of Nigeria, people decorate palm trees instead of traditional Christmas trees? These are just a few highlights of the rich and joyful Christmas traditions in Nigeria.
Christmas time in Nigeria can put a dent in your wallet when it comes to food prices. It’s like everything becomes super expensive during the holiday season. From the ingredients for traditional dishes like jollof rice and fried chicken to the snacks and drinks for entertaining guests, the prices just seem to go through the roof.
For example, the price of a bag of rice which used to be N45,000 Naira is now being sold for N66,000 Naira, a carton of turkey increased from N38,000 Naira to N50,000 Naira, a carton of chicken moved from N28,000 Naira to N31,000, a 5litre keg of groundnut oil moved from N5,700 to N7,200, and a keg of palm oil moved from N4,500 to N6,000.
Ada Chukwuma who stays in Ikotun had this to say; “So when it’s Christmas season, I make sure to plan my spending carefully. I know things can get pricey, so I try to be smart with my money. First, I create a budget and list all the things I need for the celebrations, like ingredients for cooking and gifts for loved ones. Then, I look around to compare prices and look for the best deals. I also try to take advantage of any discounts or promotions that are available. And instead of buying everything at once, I spread out my purchases over time to avoid overspending. It’s all about being mindful and finding ways to save without compromising on the joy of the season”.
Tunde Adesola from Agege said; “I compare prices at different supermarkets and I buy in bulk to save money in the long run. I also try to incorporate more affordable local ingredients into my meals to keep costs down. It can be quite a challenge to stick to a budget during this time”.
Nigerians are known for their resilience and resourcefulness, and they have shown incredible strength in the face of adversity.
During challenging times, communities come together to support one another. Nigerians rely on their strong social networks, both online and offline, to share information, provide emotional support, and offer practical assistance. They also find solace in their faith and spirituality, which plays a significant role in helping them stay positive and hopeful.
Additionally, Nigerians have a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, and many have found innovative ways to adapt and thrive in difficult circumstances. It’s truly inspiring to see how Nigerians navigate these challenging times with determination and a sense of duty.
We won’t allow the economic headwinds to dent our mood. Welcome Xmas, the time that families truly savor tasty Jollof rice, chicken, and turkey together.
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