Christmas decorations light up Lagos as economic context overshadows festivities

The spirit of Christmas is in the air. The lights that illuminate the streets and buildings surrounding Nigeria’s commercial hub attest to this

Christmas light displays could be seen under Falomo Bridge, where images of the Chibok girls kidnapped by Boko Haram are painted, or outside Lagos’ Church of the Assumption.

However, the holiday season does not mean that those who have been worst struck by the cost-of-living problem will get a break.

Trade has stalled in Lagos’ Obalende market. When the few who can still tighten their belts and buy presents make sacrifices.

Despite the government’s announcement on Wednesday that it would subsidize bus tickets to cut the cost in half between December 21 and January 4, some people have chosen to travel to other locations and therefore be separated from their loved ones.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was recently inaugurated, has launched a reform agenda aimed at encouraging investment and has abolished a hefty gasoline subsidy.

Nigerians are now dealing with rising inflation, quadrupled petrol prices, and a devalued currency.

Twinkling Christmas Light Displays could be seen under Falomo Bridge, where images of the Chibok girls kidnapped by Boko Haram are painted, or outside Lagos’ Church of the Assumption.

However, the holiday season does not mean that those who have been most struck by the cost-of-living problem will be able to relax.

Trade at Lagos’ Obalende market has slowed. When the few who can still tighten their belts/buy presents, it comes with compromises.