“So, as you lay your head tonight, remember this: live before you leave. Laugh harder. Love deeper. Rest well. Nigeria will rise again —and so will you!.. Have hope”
Nigeria is tough right now—no sugarcoating it. Prices are soaring, frustration is rising, and peace of mind is becoming a luxury only a few can afford. But amid the chaos and struggle, one truth remains: you are alive, and that’s already a priceless blessing.
Yes, the times are hard, but your heart is still beating. That’s something many millionaires in foreign hospitals would give up their fortunes for. If you’re reading this from the comfort of your home, with food— no matter how little— on your table, and your health intact, then you are among the truly blessed.
This is not the time to chase shadows or wear yourself thin over what you don’t have. Spend wisely, buy only what your body truly needs, and treat your health like royalty. Conflict is everywhere, tempers are short, and one wrong word could ignite flames—choose peace. Walk away. Smile. Say “sorry” even when you’re not at fault. It’s better to lose your pride than your life.
Men, control that silent rage. We know you’re carrying the weight of the world, but don’t drop it on your wife and kids. Let your home be a sanctuary, not a battlefield. Let laughter echo in your living room again. You will smile again.
Women, your strength is golden. This is not the time to nag or complain; it’s the time to love, support, and uplift your family. Be that quiet force that keeps the home warm, even when the storm rages outside. Make your home a place your husband wants to run to—not from.
Your health is your first bank account—guard it with your life. Eat clean, hydrate, rest, and thank God daily. You are richer than you think—because you’re healthy.
Don’t let the pressures of life steal your joy. Let go of what you can’t change, and take action on what you can. Not every locked door is your door. Not every delay is a denial. If a chapter of your life isn’t making sense, flip the page. The story isn’t over yet.
Take breaks. Recharge. Winners don’t quit— they pause, recalibrate, and come back stronger. Remember, life is not about endlessly chasing a living while forgetting to live.
Whoever told you you’re irreplaceable lied. You are valuable, yes, but don’t be a slave to anyone’s expectations. Be wise. Trust your gut. And be careful of those who claim to hear from God but can’t even hear their own conscience.
Happiness is not a destination—it’s a daily choice. Travel with it, not toward it. Celebrate the now, not just the someday. A problem is not a dead end—it’s a bend. And no pain lasts forever. Remember Arsenal Football Club and their supporters, who led the Premiership table for many months and ended up without silverware. It’s not how far, but how well.
So, as you lay your head tonight, remember this: live before you leave. Laugh harder. Love deeper. Rest well. Nigeria will rise again—and so will you!
•Mogaji Arisekola writes from Ibadan.
