As Easter Sunday approached on April 20, 2025, millions of Nigerians found themselves scaling back their celebrations, adjusting long-standing traditions due to the country’s deepening economic challenges.
Easter, typically a time of joy, vibrant church services, feasting, and family gatherings, took on a more subdued tone this year. Soaring inflation, stagnant wages, and the rising cost of basic commodities have left many households grappling with tough choices.
A rice trader at Mile 12 market in Lagos, Chinwe Okonkwo, highlighted the shift in consumer behavior. “People are still buying rice, but only in small quantities. Before, they would rush to buy full bags and cartons of drinks. This year, they are asking for ‘half paint’ or even just a few cups. Everybody is cutting costs.”
Market surveys show a sharp rise in the prices of staple foods. A 50kg bag of locally-produced rice now sells for N70,000 in Abuja—up from N65,000 just two weeks ago. In Lagos, the price ranges from N89,000 to N92,000. A carton of spaghetti that once sold for N7,000 now costs as much as N15,500. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, food inflation surged by over 91 percent year-on-year as of December 2024.
With purchasing power steadily declining, many families made painful adjustments. In Ojota, Lagos, petty trader Mrs. Bisi Akin shared how she had to forgo store-bought clothes for her children. “I usually buy ready-made outfits for them. But for the past two years, I can’t afford it. I bought some ‘Kampala’ fabric and begged my sister, who’s a tailor, to sew it for free,” she added.
Despite the economic downturn, many Nigerians are embracing the season with gratitude, resilience, and a renewed focus on spiritual reflection rather than material celebration.
For Mrs. Amaka Uche, the economic hardship hasn’t shaken the meaning of Easter. “It’s the resurrection of Jesus we are celebrating. Easter is not just about food or clothes. It’s about hope, sacrifice, and faith. In times like this, those are the things we hold on to,” she said.
In Lagos, plumber Mr. Eni Akin expressed similar sentiments. “My wife asked what we’ll cook for Easter. I just laughed and told her to manage what we have. Even the kids asked about new clothes—I didn’t know what to tell them.”
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