Chef T Decries Harsh Economic Realities in Nigeria: “Survival Has Become the Only Goal”
Popular Nigerian food blogger Chef T has voiced her frustrations over the worsening economic conditions in the country, lamenting that for many adults, survival has become the primary focus, leaving little room for financial growth or personal fulfillment.
In a passionate Instagram post, Chef T highlighted how basic necessities that are easily accessible in other countries have become luxuries in Nigeria. She questioned why something as fundamental as owning a car is seen as an extravagant achievement, emphasizing that adulthood should come with financial stability, investments, and the ability to enjoy life beyond mere survival.
“But for how long will adults only be able to afford food?” she asked. “There are other things that make adulthood fun, like having investments, properties, accessible cash to travel anywhere, active insurance covers, giving kids the best education, taking care of family, and living life on your own terms.”
Expressing her fears for the future, Chef T painted a bleak picture of Nigeria’s economic trajectory, warning that if adults are already struggling, the outlook for the next generation is even more concerning.
“What does the future of Nigeria hold for our children if adults are going through this already?” she lamented. “Adults can’t even have what they ‘need’—not to talk of what they ‘wish’ for! It’s hard to be patriotic in a country like Nigeria! It’s REALLY HARD! Now the ‘luxury’ of food wants to be taken away? Which way, Nigeria?”
Beyond the rising cost of living, Chef T criticized the lack of opportunities for young Nigerians, pointing out that instead of focusing on career advancement and innovation, many are stuck struggling for basic necessities. She bemoaned how young talents are being wasted due to the economic crisis, as individuals are forced to divert their energy to survival rather than growth.
“So many talents are wasting away in Nigeria. We channel our focus into hustling for basic things instead of putting in the energy into things that will make us live a life of ease. Our mates are achieving successes with ease all over the world, but many of us are here fighting for our lives—struggling to buy fuel, turn on the generator, dealing with bus conductor wahala, hunger, no jobs!”
Chef T’s outcry resonates with many Nigerians who continue to grapple with economic hardships, inflation, and a lack of infrastructural support. Her message has further fueled conversations around the need for urgent reforms to improve the standard of living and create a more enabling environment for growth and prosperity.
