In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed a worsening economic crisis that has left millions of its citizens struggling to survive. The cost of basic necessities like food, shelter, healthcare, and education has skyrocketed, pushing the average Nigerian into a daily fight for survival. For many, feeding their families is no longer guaranteed, and the once simple act of buying groceries now drains significant portions of household incomes.
The question on everyone’s mind is How did Nigeria reach this point? And, more urgently, What can be done to save the common Nigerian from sinking deeper into poverty?. This question demands answers from our leaders whom we entrust our future and livelihood to their care but no one seems to address this things.
The government has made promises and announced policies, but for the average Nigerian, no little has changed. Prices continue to soar, salaries remain stagnant, and hope is dwindling. This is a call for immediate and decisive action from those in power to prevent a humanitarian disaster in a country that once held such promise and a country that is as blessed called, Nigeria.
The cost of living in Nigeria has reached unprecedented heights. Basic food items like rice, beans, bread, and vegetables, which used to be affordable, are now out of reach for many families. Cooking gas, fuel, and electricity have become luxuries rather than essentials, as prices rise and availability dwindles. Housing and rent costs are equally exorbitant, leaving many Nigerians struggling to maintain even modest accommodations.
Consider the case of a typical Nigerian family living on the minimum wage, which stands at ₦30,000 per month. For this family, expenses like rent, food, transportation, and utilities far exceed their income. A single bag of rice now costs around ₦80,000 to 90,000 or even—more than a month’s salary for many workers. How can they feed their families, pay rent, cover transport costs, and manage any other expenses on such a limited income?
The reality is that many Nigerians are now skipping meals, forgoing essential medicines, or pulling their children out of school because they simply cannot afford it. Poverty is not a new issue in Nigeria, but it has worsened to a point where daily survival has become a monumental struggle for millions. The question we must all ask is: Will the poor survive this crisis?
Nigeria’s economic crisis is rooted in a mix of economic, political, and social issues. High inflation, driven by currency devaluation, import costs, and rising production expenses, has sharply reduced purchasing power, pushing millions into poverty. Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imported goods, especially food, exacerbates the situation, as global market fluctuations and a weakened naira drive up prices. Despite significant agricultural potential, the country continues to import much of its food, highlighting the need for policies that boost local production.
Unemployment, especially among young people, adds to the crisis, with limited job opportunities in a sluggish economy. This high unemployment rate underscores a broader issue of economic underperformance, leaving capable Nigerians without stable incomes. Additionally, poor governance, lack of accountability, and systemic corruption have derailed promised reforms, mismanaging resources and favoring elites over ordinary citizens.
Insecurity also aggravates the economic challenges, as violence disrupts agriculture and obstructs transportation networks. Issues like banditry and insurgency, especially in the northern regions, have undermined national food security, while fuel shortages and rising electricity costs hurt businesses and households. Together, these factors have created an environment where daily survival is a struggle for millions, threatening Nigeria’s stability.
The impact on everyday Nigerians is severe, with families living in poverty and forced to make hard choices between food, shelter, and other essentials. Malnutrition is on the rise as families cut back on meals, and deteriorating health outcomes reflect the lack of affordable medical care. Education also suffers as parents withdraw their children from school to save money, effectively denying the next generation a chance to build a better future. For many Nigerians, the daily struggle is a harrowing reminder of the deepening crisis, with each day pushing more people into poverty and despair.
Given the urgency of this situation, the Nigerian government must take immediate and decisive action. Controlling inflation is paramount, and this could involve working with the Central Bank to stabilize the currency. Temporarily subsidizing basic goods and services could provide critical relief to struggling families. Boosting agricultural production should be a priority as well; by investing in local food production, offering subsidies, and securing rural areas, the government can reduce the nation’s reliance on imports and address rising food prices.
A comprehensive job creation program is essential to tackle high unemployment. Investments in sectors like manufacturing, technology, and agriculture can generate millions of job opportunities, while training programs and support for small businesses can empower Nigerians to achieve economic independence. Raising the minimum wage to reflect the rising cost of living would also ease the financial burden on workers and allow them to meet basic needs.
Transparency and accountability must become core principles in governance. Combating corruption, prioritizing the responsible use of public funds, and ensuring that policies serve the people rather than a privileged few are all essential steps toward restoring public trust. Only a government that values integrity and prioritizes its citizens can truly lead Nigeria out of this crisis.
While the government bears the primary responsibility, Nigerian citizens and civil society also have crucial roles to play. Grassroots movements can advocate for accountability and policy reforms, while non-profit organizations can support vulnerable communities directly. Communities should unite to share resources and information, helping each other through these challenging times. Together, citizens can amplify the call for real change.
The future of Nigeria depends on the country’s ability to support its most vulnerable citizens. The time has come for leaders to listen to their people’s cries and take meaningful steps to build a nation where everyone can afford the basics of life. Failure to act now will deepen the suffering of Nigerians and jeopardize the nation’s stability. Now is the time for change—a change that we must demand, support, and work toward together for a Nigeria where the common person can live with dignity and hope.
Ephraim Ishaya, wrote from University of Maiduguri.
