In recent years, Nigerians have witnessed an alarming surge in the prices of virtually everything—from basic food items to entertainment subscriptions. While fingers are often pointed at the government or global economic trends, it’s time we also ask an uncomfortable question: Are we, the people, contributing to our own economic hardships?
The Hidden Cost of Classism and Social Pressure
There’s a growing culture of performative consumption in Nigeria—fueled by classism, ignorance, and a desperate need to belong. Whether it’s flaunting the latest gadgets, throwing lavish parties, or prioritizing brand-name products over value, many Nigerians have unconsciously adopted spending habits that are driving up prices.
From movies to music, this narrative is constantly reinforced: self-worth is now often measured by material wealth. For tech professionals and the social elite, this display of status feeds a culture where overpricing becomes normalized—and even expected.
Inflation Isn’t Always External—Sometimes It’s Internal
Yes, the economy is struggling. Yes, the government has a role to play. But the hard truth is this: we too play a part in Nigeria’s rising inflation.
We complain about the price of tomatoes, data plans, clothes, and fuel—yet we overlook how consumer behavior, social status anxiety, and the desire to impress contribute to inflated demand and artificial scarcity. The more we associate value with cost, the more we legitimize unreasonable pricing.
That’s because you people love classism a little too much. I can package basic crepe material from Balogun market and sell it as dress “Ashake” for 120k https://t.co/ifyJiB2IFD
— ADA (@Ucheyyy2) March 20, 2025
Time for Collective Accountability
It’s difficult to confront this reality because it forces us to examine our own decisions, our misplaced priorities, and the societal pressure that shapes them. But awareness is the first step toward change.
When we begin to question our roles in this inflation spiral—when we resist the need to always “show up” with expensive taste—we might start to untangle ourselves from the trap we unknowingly set.
This classism around Opay reminds me of the time a media personality said, if you call her on WhatsApp and not mobile call, you’re broke.
Products that provide essential services are just that, ESSENTIAL.
Everything equalises in the end.
— Fatu (@fatuogwuche) March 26, 2025
If we truly want to see a shift in Nigeria’s economic narrative, we must be honest with ourselves. It’s not always “them” (the government or the elite); sometimes, it’s us.
Breaking free from this cycle requires a mindset shift—valuing financial prudence over flamboyance, sustainability over status, and collective progress over personal image.
Until we name the problem and face it head-on, we risk staying stuck in a vicious cycle—one that leads nowhere, except deeper into frustration.