As discussions continued at the Briefing Room Town Hall, participants shared more personal accounts of how Nigeria's rising cost of living has forced difficult lifestyle adjustments and financial sacrifices.
Television producer and educator Fumi Akishala explained that even routine household purchases now require careful planning and rationing.
Using eggs as an example, she said her family has been forced to reduce consumption because of soaring food prices.
"Whenever we buy eggs now, everyone takes one and a half instead of two. Everything has become expensive. Even the poultry farmers are struggling because the cost of feeding chickens has gone up," she said.
According to her, inflation has affected every stage of the food supply chain, making it difficult for both producers and consumers.
Akishala noted that despite holding several jobs and running multiple side businesses, surviving has become increasingly difficult.
She questioned how many additional sources of income Nigerians could realistically create just to meet basic needs.
"I teach, I produce television programmes, I host events, I organise trainings and still have other side hustles. But how many side hustles can one person have just to survive?" she asked.
She added that insecurity has further worsened the economic situation by preventing many farmers from accessing their farmlands, reducing food production and contributing to rising prices.
During the discussion, Akishala disclosed that she regretted turning down opportunities to relocate abroad several years ago.
According to her, she had believed strongly in Nigeria's future and chose to remain in the country in the hope of contributing to its development.
"I had opportunities to leave years ago, but I stayed because I believed we could build this country. Looking back now, I honestly regret not taking those opportunities," she admitted.
She said conversations with friends now living overseas have reinforced her concerns, noting that while inflation exists globally, many countries provide stronger social support systems and better economic stability than Nigeria.
The discussion also shifted towards governance and long-term economic reforms, with participants arguing that sustainable improvements require effective leadership, improved agricultural policies, better security, and stronger economic planning.
Several contributors maintained that addressing inflation alone would not be enough without restoring security in farming communities, improving employment opportunities, and implementing policies that ease the financial burden on households.
The town hall concluded that while Nigerians continue to demonstrate resilience through entrepreneurship and multiple income streams, many believe lasting relief will depend on comprehensive reforms capable of reducing the rising cost of living and improving economic opportunities across the country.
Comments
Post a Comment