One thing deeply common in Nigeria is the culture of “managing.” Almost everybody uses that word regularly. Nigerians manage transport, manage feeding, manage electricity, manage stress, and sometimes even manage happiness itself. When someone says, “I’m managing,” it can mean many things. It may mean life is difficult financially. It may mean the person is emotionally tired. It may mean survival has become stressful. Yet despite all these challenges, many Nigerians still continue pushing daily with resilience and determination. The economic situation has made this “managing” mentality even more common. Prices of food, transportation, data, rent, and basic needs continue increasing, so many people constantly adjust their lifestyles to survive. Some families now reduce unnecessary spending. Some people skip certain luxuries completely. Others take multiple side hustles simply to maintain stability. Interestingly, Nigerians have become experts at adapting. A person may complain about hardship in the morning and still laugh with friends later in the evening. That ability to survive difficult conditions while maintaining humor is something many people admire about Nigerians. However, there is also a dangerous side to constant “managing.” Sometimes people become so used to hardship that they stop prioritizing proper wellbeing. Some individuals ignore stress, emotional exhaustion, or health problems because they believe suffering is simply part of life. Others settle for unhealthy situations because they fear things may become worse if they try changing their circumstances. The truth is that survival should not only mean enduring endless hardship. People deserve stability too. They deserve rest, peace, comfort, and opportunities to live healthier lives emotionally and financially. While resilience is admirable, society should also normalize seeking improvement instead of constantly glorifying struggle. At the same time, Nigerians continue proving that adaptability is one of their strongest qualities. Despite daily challenges, many people still remain hopeful and hardworking. That hope keeps many individuals moving forward even during difficult seasons. Do you think Nigerians have become too comfortable with “managing” difficult situations instead of demanding better living conditions?
