Christmas is that time of year when the spirit of giving takes centre stage globally, and wishlists become the currency of hope and anticipation. Children across the world have curated their wants and needs for the holidays, hoping Santa would climb down their chimneys on Christmas Eve and deliver their wishes in nice packages.
While traffic prevents Santa and his elves from delivering to Nigerian homes, young Nigerians still want to receive gifts during the holidays. So while there are many concerts and end-of-year parties to put us in the holiday mood, we decided to tap into the minds of young Nigerians, who are known for being pragmatic and refreshingly honest about what they want.
We asked 10 young adults in Nigeria what’s topping their Christmas lists this year, and their answers paint a picture of a generation navigating today’s realities. From dream vacations to escape the Nigerian hustle and bustle to foodstuffs, because this economy is not smiling.
Cynthia – “Perfumes and Skincare”
For Cynthia, Christmas is all about self-care and feeling good. She wants the kind of gifts that make you feel pampered and put-together as you step into the new year.
Shadrach – “Money”
Short and straight to the point. Cash is king, and in this economy, liquid funds give you the flexibility to handle whatever comes your way. No explanations needed.
Seyi – “Foodstuff”
With the current prices of things, Seyi’s wish cuts straight to what matters most: food. In an economy where the price of rice and beans can make or break your budget, asking for foodstuffs is a good choice.
Oye – “Chocolate, Boots, Perfumes”
Chocolate for the sweet moments, boots to style the seasons fashionably, and perfumes to smell divine through it all.
Obong – “Cash, kudi, owo, ego”
Obong said it in four languages just to make sure we got the message. Whether you call it cash, kudi, owo, or ego, the request is universal: money matters. Her multilingual request is both hilarious and deeply relatable, because apparently, one language isn’t enough to express how much she needs those funds.
Janet – “24-inch pixie curls or deep wave wig or a G-Wagon or someone to clear my cart”
Janet has options, and what a range they are. From gorgeous hair to a luxury G-Wagon that screams arrival, to the very relatable request to have someone clear her online shopping cart. And, we love the ambition.
Nambo – “Money”
Another vote for the most versatile gift of all. Bukola joins the chorus of people who know that when prices are unpredictable, and needs are many, nothing beats having money in your account. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Ayomide – “Vacation to two Western and two Southern African countries”
A Dora the Explorer type of girl, she wants to go to four African countries—two in the west, two in the south. It speaks to wanderlust and the desire to experience different cultures, landscapes, and cuisines across the continent. Travel is her love language, and this Christmas, she’s ready to say “yes” to adventure.
Bayo – “Money and a new phone”
He is keeping it real with a two-item wishlist that makes sense to him. Cash for immediate needs, and a new phone because let’s face it, he too would like the latest iPhone.
Rhoda – “A really big advent calendar, preferably food-related. A basket of cheeses, lots and lots of cheeses. A box of treats for my cat”
She wants a food-filled advent calendar to count down the days in the most delicious way possible, a basket overflowing with cheese (because you can never have too much cheese), and treats for her feline companion. It’s a wishlist that celebrates the joy of good food, comfort, and making sure everyone in the household, including the cat, gets spoiled this season.
From money in multiple languages to adventure across the continent, these wishlists show that young Nigerians are anything but predictable. So, what would you add to your Christmas list if you could ask for anything?
