How we plan to spend Christmas amidst hardship

Pastor Mike Tayese, 55

Despite the harsh economy, I think the first thing one needs to do is thank God for life, good health and daily provisions. As for celebrating Christmas, it will be in low key with family and friends because as long as we are alive, more Christmas will come. 

We all know that things are expensive and we have to make do with what is available by not stressing myself beyond measure. And as a clergy, I will advise everyone to celebrate according to their capacity without incurring unnecessary debt.

Everything is expensive, but I believe God that we will celebrate it in a very simple way.

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Lady Eunice Nnachi, 45, gender advocate

I will celebrate Christmas with friends and colleagues, but will spend New Year with my family. I will opt for smaller portions of meat rather than a whole chicken. 

I will observe a modest celebration focused on family gatherings instead of large festivities.

Lastly, I will gather family members and friends for stargazing and share resolutions around a bonfire.

Friday Jonah, 40, rice farmer

Even as a farmer, I feel the heat of this inflation as regards the celebration of Christmas.

The government has not given us the support that will help us produce more food for citizens. We are talking about the price of rice now – if the government could support us to produce enough rice that can feed the people of our state, I believe the price would come down.

My advice to fellow Nigerians is just to make do with what God has blessed you this Christmas; don’t overstretch yourself. We still have many Christmas seasons to celebrate. And for those who may have enough, show love to your neighbour who may be struggling because Christmas is about love and service to humanity. The birth of Christ Jesus is about peace.

Mrs Funmilayo Francis, 48, entrepreneur

God who kept us from January to December is the one that will help us to celebrate this year’s Christmas. He has not changed. We won’t beg from our enemies before we eat on Christmas day.

About the situation of this country, there is nothing we can do but to keep praying. If we pray for our country and things get better, it is for our own good.

Onyekachi Chibuzor, 36, driver

I don’t have any plan. The highest thing I do is give my wife money to stock up the house and that’s all. I didn’t spend much last year; I think I gave her about N30,000, but this time around, it was N80,000 and she is even complaining that it is not enough. I have asked her to manage. The truth is that the economy is bad.