When festivities turn into a battle for survival, unfortunately, the essence of celebrations like Christmas and other festivities may be lost.
For decades, Christmas in Nigeria was characterized by abundance, joy, and cultural vibrancy.
Preparations would begin weeks in advance, culminating on December 24th—a day of final touches and excitement.
Families slaughtered animals, markets buzzed with activity, and children eagerly awaited the unveiling of new clothes and gifts.
Today, this reality has shifted for many Nigerians, with economic hardship redefining how people approach the festive season.
A Shadow of the Past
In the Nigeria of old, December 24th marked the pinnacle of Christmas preparations.
Families, both in rural and urban areas, devoted the day to tasks such as buying livestock, sourcing fresh ingredients for traditional meals, and decorating homes with colourful lights and ornaments.
Tailors worked tirelessly to meet deadlines for custom-made outfits, and marketplaces overflowed with eager shoppers purchasing everything from spices to fireworks.
However, the Nigeria of today tells a different story.
Economic realities have significantly altered this festive narrative.
With inflation soaring and the purchasing power of the naira dwindling, many families can no longer afford the luxuries that once defined Christmas.
A bag of rice, a staple for festive meals, now costs over ₦90,000—an astronomical amount for the average Nigerian family.
Protein sources like beef, goat meat, and chicken, which were once accessible, are now considered a luxury.
Families who cannot afford these have resorted to simpler meals or have entirely foregone the traditional festive spread.
When Festivities Turn Into A Battle For Survival
Survival Over Celebration
The shift in how Nigerians celebrate Christmas is stark.
For a growing number of families, the holiday is no longer about festivities but survival.
While Christmas was once an opportunity to showcase prosperity and share abundance, it has now become a time to prioritize basic needs.
Many families, especially those in lower-income brackets, find themselves grappling with difficult decisions.
Should they spend their limited funds on special meals, or should they save for school fees, rent, or medical bills? The answer, for most, is the latter.
This reality has led to a redefinition of Christmas for many.
Instead of lavish meals and extravagant gatherings, families now focus on ensuring they have something—anything—to eat on Christmas Day.
For some, even this modest goal proves elusive, leaving them to rely on the goodwill of others or charity initiatives organized by religious groups and community organizations.
The Root Cause
The economic struggles facing Nigerians during festive periods are not isolated but stem from systemic issues.
The country’s economy has been grappling with challenges such as high inflation, unemployment, and a weakened currency.
Basic commodities, from food to fuel, have become increasingly expensive, making it difficult for families to maintain a standard of living, let alone celebrate.
In addition, the global economic downturn, coupled with domestic mismanagement, has exacerbated the situation.
The cost of living continues to rise, while wages remain stagnant.
For many Nigerians, particularly those in informal sectors, daily survival takes precedence over festive celebrations.
When Festivities Turn Into A Battle For Survival
Psychological Impact of Festive Struggles
The economic difficulties associated with Christmas celebrations extend beyond financial stress; they also have profound psychological effects. Parents feel the burden of failing to meet societal expectations, while children grapple with the loss of traditions they once cherished.
Festivals are often a time to bond, reflect, and create memories. However, when these experiences are overshadowed by financial woes, they can leave lasting scars. Children who grew up associating Christmas with joy and abundance now face a reality where the day passes almost unnoticed. This disconnect can affect their perception of the holiday and diminish its significance in their lives.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite these challenges, Nigerians have proven time and again that they are resilient. Families have found creative ways to celebrate within their means, emphasizing the core values of Christmas: love, unity, and gratitude.
Many families have shifted their focus from the material aspects of the holiday to its spiritual and emotional components. Instead of lavish feasts, they share modest meals, cherishing the opportunity to be together. Religious institutions play a crucial role in this adaptation, offering spiritual guidance and organizing charity drives to support less-privileged families.
Communities have also come together to uphold the spirit of giving. Neighborhoods pool resources to ensure that everyone has something to celebrate, even if it’s just a shared meal. These acts of kindness highlight the enduring spirit of Christmas, even in the face of hardship.
When Festivities Turn Into A Battle For Survival
A Broader Call for Change
The struggles faced by Nigerians during the festive season underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms.
Addressing the root causes of economic hardship requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, private sector, and community stakeholders.
Agricultural reforms are a critical starting point.
By investing in local food production, the government can reduce reliance on imports and stabilize food prices.
Similarly, initiatives to boost job creation and increase wages would provide families with the financial stability needed to plan for celebrations and other milestones.
Additionally, policies aimed at reducing inflation and improving access to credit would go a long way in alleviating the financial burdens faced by families.
Social welfare programs could also be expanded to provide targeted support during festive seasons, ensuring that no family is left behind.
Hope for the Future
While the current situation is challenging, it is not without hope.
The resilience and adaptability of Nigerians provide a foundation for a brighter future.
As the nation works toward economic recovery, there is potential for a return to the vibrant, joyous celebrations that once defined Christmas.
Families will once again gather around abundant tables, children will wear their new clothes with pride, and the streets will come alive with the sights and sounds of “festivities.
Until then, Nigerians will continue to find ways to celebrate within their means, proving that the true essence of Christmas lies in the love and unity shared among family and friends.
When Festivities Turn Into A Battle For Survival
