In Nigeria, one of the most common phrases people use in daily conversation is “I dey manage” 😌. It sounds simple, but it carries a deep meaning about survival, resilience, and adaptation in a difficult economic environment. For many Nigerians, life is a constant balancing act ⚖️. Prices of food, transport, rent, and electricity keep changing 📈. Salaries, however, often remain the same. This creates a situation where people must learn how to stretch limited resources to survive each month. From budgeting carefully to skipping unnecessary expenses, “managing” becomes a lifestyle rather than a temporary situation. Even basic activities require planning. Going to work means calculating transport fares 🚍. Eating out is considered a luxury 🍲. Buying data for internet access 📱 becomes something people monitor closely because it is expensive and essential at the same time. Despite all this, Nigerians still find ways to smile, joke, and support each other 😂🤝. Social life is also affected. Many people attend events not because they can afford it, but because of cultural expectations. Weddings, burials, and celebrations often come with financial pressure 🎉💰. Yet, people still show up, sometimes sacrificing comfort just to maintain relationships and respect. What stands out most is resilience 💪. Nigerians continue to adapt, hustle, and innovate despite challenges. Small businesses, side jobs, and creative skills become survival tools. There is a strong belief that “something will work out,” even when things feel uncertain. This daily reality builds strength but also raises an important question about sustainability and quality of life. 👉 Is “I dey manage” a sign of strength, or a sign that people are simply surviving instead of truly living? 🤔🇳🇬
