The Hustler’s Guide to Saving Money in 2025

It’s only January 58 and it’s looking like 2025 has plans to squeeze us dry; with soaring telecommunication tariffs, increased taxes, fuel prices threatening to choke us every 2 market days and the ever-present threat of shege pro max lurking around the corner!

As a corporate baddie, a side gig warrior, or the CEO of urgent 2k, saving money in Nigeria is now a do or die affair. But not to worry! 

I’ve curated a guide to make it easy; the hustler’s guide to help you dodge unnecessary expenses and stack your cash like a pro. Grab your pen and joff fhingz down!

Master the Art of Negotiation (Like a Nigerian Mom)

Rule number one: never accept the first price. Whether you’re at Balogun Market or buying a second-hand car, remember that every price is just a suggestion.

Channel your inner “Mummy vibes” and start with, “Ah ah, Oga, is that the last price?!”

If the seller refuses to budge, simply walk away slowly. Trust me, they’ll call you back faster than your ex after a breakup.

Cut Back on Soft Life

I know, I know. Soft life is the vibe, but does your wallet agree? 

This year, we’re saying goodbye to unnecessary spending and unbudgeted transactions.

Instead of buying bottles at clubs, why not invest in home-made Zobo and host your own “low-budget oblee” at home? Your liver and bank account will thank you.

RELATED: 7 Healthy Alternatives To Fizzy Drinks Every Nigerian Can Enjoy

Embrace the Okrika Lifestyle

Repeat after me: “Na mumu dey go boutique!” That Versace you’re eyeing at the boutique? Someone’s selling it as Okrika at Yaba Market for a fraction of the price. 

Just show up early, dig through the pile, and find your treasures. 

Bonus tip: learn how to iron properly—those clothes need love too. 

Don’t forget to spray strong perfumes when stepping out in your new apparel because that okirika smell doesn’t go away after the first wash.

Cook More

Eating out is fun until you check your account balance and realize your stomach infrastructure is ruining your savings. 

Invest in some Eba, Egusi, and rice. 

Cooking at home is not just a survival skill—it’s your wallet’s best friend. And don’t forget to meal prep because “Monday jollof rice is always sweeter on Thursday!”

Use Public Transport, But with Wisdom

With fuel prices skyrocketing, owning a car in Nigeria is basically a luxury. Enter the world of danfo, okada, and keke napep. 

Sure, it’s not the most glamorous, but it gets the job done. Just hold your bag tight and don’t argue with the conductor—you’ll lose.

If public transport isn’t your thing, try carpooling with friends. It’s the perfect mix of “group contribution” and trauma bonding.

Avoid Weddings Like a Plague

Nigerian weddings are financial traps, let’s be honest. Between aso-ebi, gift contributions, and spraying cash, you could end up spending your January rent on someone else’s “big day.” 

Politely decline the invite or, better yet, develop a sudden “emergency” every Saturday until further notice.

You can also send the couple a small ‘token’ as their wedding gift. They’ll appreciate it and you’ll spend less. 20k cash gift is better than spending 120k on a wedding that is not your own.

Find a Side Hustle That Hustles

2025 is not the year to depend on one stream of income. 

Whether it’s selling chin chin, becoming a YouTube influencer, or even teaching people how to japa, find something that brings in extra cash. 

Just make sure it doesn’t turn you into a “Yahoo Yahoo” prospect—because EFCC is not smiling.

Cancel Subscriptions You Don’t Need

Do you really need Netflix, Amazon Prime and DSTv  all at once? Be honest. 

Pick one, stick to it, or better still, borrow your friend’s login details (just don’t tell them I told you).

DIY Everything

Why pay for things you can do yourself? From fixing a lightbulb to learning how to braid your hair, YouTube is your best friend. 

Trust me, the feeling of saving money is almost as satisfying as the results.

Become a Creator on Fusion

Instead of laboring away with content creation and hustling to get followers on other social media platforms. 

Bring your creativity to Fusion and earn on the go (even without followers). 

Create relevant posts across various communities and get rewarded. Invite your friends to join you and earn referral bonuses. Participate in trivia and challenges in-app and win prizes. 

This update is a sure plug for earning extra income. Join here and thank me later.

Saving money in 2025 is not for the fainthearted, but with a little discipline and a lot of humor, you can survive and thrive. 

Remember, it’s not about how much you earn; it’s about how much you keep. Let’s make smarter financial decisions in 2025.  Stay hustling, my people.