By Chiagoziem Abosi
2024 wasn’t an easy year, but if there’s one thing Nigerians know how to do, it’s to rise above challenges. From grappling with the removal of fuel subsidies to finding innovative ways to make ends meet, the stories of survival, grit, and community shine through. Let’s dive into the hurdles we faced and how we overcame them with our signature “Naija spirit.”
1. Fuel Subsidy Removal: Turning Struggles into Innovation
When the government announced the removal of the fuel subsidy, the ripple effects were immediate. Transportation costs skyrocketed, food prices soared, and many Nigerians wondered how they would survive. But we’re a people who don’t give up easily.
Baba Tunde, a commercial driver in Lagos, shared:
“At first, I thought I’d have to park my car for good. But I started a carpool service for office workers. Now, I carry five passengers every morning instead of one, and everyone saves money.”
CNG-powered vehicles and solar energy also became lifelines. In communities like Surulere and Ikeja, people teamed up to install solar panels to cut electricity bills.
2. Hustling Through Economic Hardship
Inflation hit hard in 2024, and many families had to make tough choices. Yet, Nigerians proved that no matter how tight the budget, there’s always a way.
Kemi, a single mom in Ikeja, turned her side hustle into a full-time gig:
“When my salary wasn’t enough to feed my kids, I started selling zobo and small chops after work. Now, I even supply to offices, and I’ve made more money than I thought possible.”
Market women became masters of bargaining, creating group buying systems to get wholesale prices. In the face of tough times, collaboration became key.
3. Entrepreneurship: Finding New Paths to Success
They say necessity is the mother of invention, and Nigerians took this to heart in 2024. Small businesses flourished as people looked for ways to make extra income. From online thrift stores to home-cooked meal delivery services, creativity was at an all-time high.
Jide, a barber in Ikeja, shared:
“I started offering home services because transport was too expensive for my customers. Now, I charge a premium for convenience, and business is booming.”Tech startups also played a role in easing the burden. Apps that connect customers to artisans, tutors, or cleaners grew in popularity, giving thousands of Nigerians new income streams.
4. Community First: The Power of Coming Together
When times are tough, Nigerians turn to each other. In 2024, community initiatives made a huge difference. Neighbors organized food drives, and youth groups ran free skills workshops.
Victoria, who started a skills acquisition program in Agege, explained:
“We taught over 200 people tailoring, hairdressing, and soap-making this year. Many of them are already making money with these skills. Helping each other is how we survive.”
Even religious organizations and NGOs stepped in, providing relief materials and medical support to the most vulnerable.
5. Rising Through Technology
2024 saw a tech revolution that wasn’t just about big startups—it reached everyday Nigerians. Farmers used apps to sell produce directly to consumers, cutting out middlemen. Students embraced free online courses to learn skills like coding and digital marketing.
Bose, a young graduate in Ikeja, said:
“I couldn’t get a job after school, so I learned graphic design on YouTube. Now, I work for clients abroad and earn in dollars. Tech saved me.”
A Year to Remember
2024 tested Nigerians in ways we hadn’t seen in years, but it also reminded us of our strength, creativity, and community spirit. From big cities to small villages, we found ways to adapt, survive, and even thrive.
As we step into 2025, one thing is clear: Nigerians never back down. No matter what comes our way, we’ll always find a way to make it work.
What challenges did you conquer this year? Share your story with IkejaBird—we’d love to celebrate your wins.
