Nigerian youngsters are best when it comes to adapting. Inflation, security, and unfavourable policies are some of the challenges young Nigerians face. Despite this reality, the Gen Zs have crafted a series of survival strategies themselves and they are not shy to do anything for the money. We can all agree that my generation has swallowed the whole of Pastor Oyedepo’s prosperity messages.
Sapa might truly be hitting hard, but Nigerian Gen Zs are hitting back harder!
The Nigerian Gen Zs have devised creative tactics to rise above poverty and dejection, which has indeed made the Millennials run faster than they were.
- Entrepreneurship:
Forget the traditional 9-5 grind; Gen Zs are building empires from their social accounts such as YouTube, X, Instagram and TikTok accounts via content creation. They have upgraded the “side hustle” to full-blown startups, from glam fashion lines to cutting-edge tech ventures. Remember Arike Preorder lol. Who needs a brick-and-mortar store when you can sell out of your DMs?
2. Digital Skills and Remote Work
While some of us were still figuring out MS Point, these Gen Zs are coding their way to soft life. From badass graphics design to digital marketing wizardry, they’ve got skills that could even crash Elon Musk’s feed. FYI, more GenZs now clock into their Los Angeles office from Ikeja. Virtual assistants, content creators, and software gurus now cash out on a steady while sipping chilled Zobo. Nigeria’s tech revolution is led by Gen Z. They’re not just app users; they’re app creators, solving local problems with fintech and health tech that even your grandma would download. There’s even an app that teaches how to make cucumber stew
3. Creative Industries
Who needs Hollywood to make it big? Gen Z Naija artists are skyrocketing with hilarious skits that have everyone talking. If the Oscars create a category for skit makers, you know it’s coming home to Nigeria!
4. Freelancing
Upwork, Fiverr—these platforms aren’t just for spare change. Gen Z hustles hard on global gigs, earning dollars while rocking ankara prints and Yeezys.
5. Agriculture
It’s not just about having a “green thumb” anymore; it’s about green in the bank! Young Nigerians are exploring the Nigerian smart agribusiness. They’re adopting top-notch practices, leveraging tech, and perfecting packaging for ready buyers. Some Gen Zs are even adopting their grandfathers’ remote hectares for farmland to cut costs, while others invest in agriculture for solid returns. Sapa might be hitting hard, but Gen Z is hitting back harder!
6. Education and Skill Acquisition
When it comes to education, Nigerian Gen Zs are at the top of their game. They’re devouring courses like Jollof rice at owanbe, upgrading skills and boosting employability faster than you can say “Google it.” This sets them up for amazing opportunities. No wonder a Nigerian family was named the smartest in the UK!
7. Influencer Marketing
From YouTube to Instagram, every social media post by a Nigerian Gen Z is intentional. The fake life is more tasking than a Bank Teller’s work. They’re grinding to boost their followers and cashing in on brand-influencing deals. With followers piling up faster than Wizkid’s hits, brands are lining up for their deals. Don’t sleep!
9. Community and Networking:
Nigerian Gen Zs aren’t just scrolling—they’re making connections online and offline. You’ll find them at tech hangouts, fashion shows, parties, and even churches. They’re always on the lookout for that key contact or somebody who knows somebody.
These aren’t just survival tactics for GenZs; it is a revolution which has turned into a norm. GenZs are turning challenges into opportunities and making us all wish we were born a decade later. In today’s tough Nigeria, it’s all about having enough to eat, looking sharp, and feeling great. How are you navigating this economy? Share your savvy strategies in the comments below!
