Rice is Gold, Garri is Bae: Surviving Naija is a Must!

If you're not feeling the heat right now, where have you been? You must be living under a rock, because this economy? It's something else! Inflation has turned everything upside down, and honestly, most of us are just doing our best to stay afloat in this crazy, unpredictable financial storm.

 I’m sure by now, everybody has seen their own fair share of shege. Whether you like it or not, you can’t hide or run from it. This situation is sticking to us like a stubborn mosquito!

I mean, come on, even with a stable job, everyone can feel the stretch. And why? Because inflation don vex! Things that used to be basic are now ridiculously expensive. Rice, beans, garri, all the things we grew up eating like it was a right, are now luxury items. 

Have you tried going to the market lately? It's like a stock market. One minute, prices are low, the next minute, you’re looking at the cashier like, “Please, am I buying gold?” A bag of rice that used to be N25k? Nah, that thing is now at N75k! Minimum! And transport fares? Don’t even go there. 

I miss the good old days when you could buy a full breakfast of akara and bread for just N50. Now, it doesn't look like that denomination of currency even exists anymore. It’s no surprise no one’s smiling these days, everyone’s in full survival mode, just trying to get through the day without falling apart. “The pressure is getting wesser!” And yes, we’re all feeling it.

But here’s the thing: Nigerians are built different, resilient to the core. In the middle of all this chaos, we’re still standing. Some are squeezing out savings like juice from a stone, while others are launching side hustles like their lives depend on it (because they kinda do).

So, if you haven’t caught on yet, now’s the time to start thinking smart before your budget sends you to an early “retirement.”

The good news? Here are 7 smart ways to ride out the storm:

1. Budget Wisely and Track Spending

You can’t just throw money around like it’s change from buying roasted corn. Prioritize essentials like food, light, and transport. And get yourself a Safe Haven sub-account, it’s like that one friend who always keeps you on track. Track every kobo like it’s your ex’s new relationship, and maybe skip that daily takeaway ice cream and shawarma. Those little savings will add up, I promise!

2. Cut Back on Unnecessary Spending

Look around, what can you actually live without? That extra plate of jollof at the office party? Or maybe that random trip to the mall because you’re “just looking,” but somehow you end up buying another pair of sandals that you’ll never wear? Cut it out! Sacrificing small things today means you’ll have more to spend on what truly matters tomorrow.

3. Shop Smart

Stop being loyal to the supermarket where you get the same overpriced rice every time! Buy in bulk at the local market, my friend. And when you see tomatoes going for N1000, don't just stand there, grab it. Also, consider buying seasonal produce when prices are lower.

4. Save and Invest Smartly

Let’s be honest, your traditional savings account isn’t doing you any favors anymore. Inflation’s out here eating up your savings. Consider other options like mutual funds, stocks, or even government bonds. Your money should be working hard for you, not just sitting there like a lazy goat at a party. Trust me, this will help you beat inflation.

5. Find Extra Streams of Income

One salary? Not in this economy! It’s time to get your side hustle on. Whether it’s selling chin-chin, doing freelance gigs, or driving Uber, having that extra cash flow will save you from crying every time you check your bank balance. Your hustle should be as strong as your desire for amala on a Friday afternoon.

6. Cut Transport Costs

If you’re still jumping into Uber or Bolt for every move, abeg, recheck yourself. That daily ride will drain your pocket faster than a bad relationship. Instead, try public transport, it’s cheaper, and honestly, you won’t die! And if the bus comes with a little extra “Nigerian drama,” just roll with it. You’ll be surprised how much you save, and your pocket will thank you.

7. Take Advantage of Financial Services

If you’re ever in need of quick cash, microfinance banks are your lifesavers. Look at Safe Haven Microfinance Bank for affordable loans with flexible repayment plans. You can take a low-interest loan to cover some of those urgent costs and breathe easy while inflation is out here doing the most.

So yes, the struggle is real, but you know what they say, where there’s a will, there’s a way! We’ve been through tough times before and still came out on top. Nigerians, we don’t back down. We keep pushing, no matter what!