5 years ago, bare minimum for a guy was “have a job and fear God.” For a girl: “be submissive and know how to cook.” In 2026, the list is longer and more expensive. Now guys are expected to have a car, apartment, pay all bills, plan dates, and still “be emotionally available”. Girls are expected to have their own money, look like Instagram baddies, support his dream, and never bill him. Sapa has raised the standard, but our salaries didn’t get the memo. I asked my female friend what her bare minimum is now. She said: “If he can’t send ₦50k without complaining, we’re not compatible.” I asked my guy friend. He said: “If she can’t cook, clean, and contribute, what am I doing?” Both sound fair to them. Both sound toxic to someone else. So have we moved the goalpost too far, or is this just reality? Because I see a lot of single people with long lists and short patience. Let’s be real for once: What’s ONE thing you used to think was “extra” but now you see as bare minimum? And what’s one thing people ask for that’s actually unreasonable in this economy? Ladies first, then guys. Let’s debate with respect.
