December in Nigeria is a season of mixed emotions. For many, it’s a time to reunite with family, bask in the festive cheer, and enjoy end-of-year celebrations. However, behind the glitz of Christmas lights and the joy of seeing loved ones, lies a mountain of challenges that can turn this festive period into a season of stress. From unbearable traffic jams in Lagos to skyrocketing prices, fuel scarcity, and societal pressures, the wahala (trouble) is real.
The Traffic Nightmare: A Lagosian Struggle
For residents of Lagos, the “ember months” are notorious for their gridlock. December traffic, however, takes the crown. It’s not unusual to spend hours stuck in a sea of vehicles, with honking horns and frustrated drivers. “Eko traffic no dey hear say you wan go chop Christmas rice,” jokes Tunde, a frustrated commuter, who spent five hours on the road trying to get from Ikeja to Ajah.
The root of the problem lies in the surge of activities during this period. Shopping malls, markets like Balogun and Oshodi, and event venues are buzzing with activity. Families are preparing for Christmas, while businesses host end-of-year parties. The influx of Nigerians returning home from abroad also adds to the congestion, making an already chaotic situation worse.
To cope, many have resorted to leaving their homes at odd hours or, in some cases, avoiding the most notorious routes altogether. Some Lagosians even humorously suggest that helicopters should be an essential part of Christmas planning.
Fuel Scarcity and Its Ripple Effect
As if the traffic isn’t enough, fuel scarcity often makes its annual December appearance, leaving many stranded and businesses struggling. Filling stations become battlegrounds, with long queues stretching into the streets. The scarcity drives up the cost of transportation, making it a double-edged sword for travelers.
“I wanted to travel to Owerri with my family,” says Nkechi, a trader in Surulere. “But the cost of transportation has doubled. I’m not even sure we’ll go anymore.” This frustration is shared by many Nigerians who traditionally travel to their hometowns to celebrate with extended families.
The ripple effect of fuel scarcity extends beyond transport. Small businesses relying on generators to survive face increased expenses, while food vendors, tailors, and others find themselves hiking prices to cover rising operational costs.
The Pressure to “Show Face”
December isn’t just about the holidays—it’s a season of societal expectations. For many Nigerians, it’s the time to “show face” by returning to their hometowns laden with cash and gifts. There’s a silent competition to prove one’s success over the year, whether through lavish parties, new clothes, or extravagant spending.
For those who live in cities like Lagos or abroad, the pressure to meet family expectations can be overwhelming. “I had to borrow money to send to my parents,” confesses Chijioke, an IT worker. “They think because I work in Abuja, I’m swimming in money. Nobody wants to hear that things are tough.”
Social media hasn’t helped matters either, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok showcasing luxury lifestyles that fuel comparison and anxiety. The fear of being labeled stingy or “not doing well” drives many into financial recklessness, leaving them struggling to recover in January—aptly nicknamed “the month of hunger.”
Soaring Prices: A Shopper’s Dilemma
In December, the cost of everything seems to double. Basic food items, clothing, and even services become almost unaffordable for the average Nigerian. A bag of rice, which cost ₦40,000 earlier in the year, could climb as high as ₦60,000 by December.
“The traders know we have no choice,” laments Halima, a mother of three. “Even onions, which were cheap last month, are suddenly expensive.”
While some people turn to thrift shopping or minimal celebrations to cut costs, others rely on bulk buying earlier in the year. However, with inflation constantly on the rise, saving ahead doesn’t always guarantee relief.
Survival Tips for a Stress-Free December
Despite the challenges, Nigerians have developed coping mechanisms to survive the festive wahala:
- Plan Ahead: Buying Christmas essentials months in advance can help avoid inflated prices.
- Stick to a Budget: With pressures to spend, setting financial boundaries is crucial. Resist the urge to compete with others.
- Leverage Technology: Online shopping and ride-hailing apps can save time and reduce stress.
- Travel Early: Those planning to visit their hometowns should hit the road in late November or early December to avoid peak travel chaos.
- Embrace Minimalism: Simplicity is key—celebrations don’t have to break the bank. Focus on spending quality time with loved ones.
A Time to Reflect and Reconnect
While December presents its fair share of challenges, it’s important to remember the true essence of the season: family, love, and gratitude. It’s a time to appreciate life’s blessings and make memories that outlast the troubles of Lagos traffic or the pinch of economic hardship.
As Nigerians navigate the festive season, the spirit of resilience shines brightly. After all, if there’s one thing Nigerians know how to do, it’s turning wahala into laughter, bonding over jollof rice, and dancing their way into the new year.
