Ah, Easter! A time for family, reflection, and of course, enough jollof rice to feed a small village. But let’s be honest, Nigerians, this year’s Easter is shaping up to be a little different. This year’s Easter celebration might be a little less “owambe” and a little more “praise the Lord”. After all, isn’t the true meaning of Easter about appreciating the gift of sacrifice? Perhaps this year, we’re all being called upon to sacrifice a little extra jollof rice for the greater good- and our wallets.
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’ve all seen the price tags on the market these days. Enough for a family feast? More like enough for a thoughtful conversation with the chicken about its plans. Forget about squeezing the entire family into a car and burning fuel that costs more than a bishop’s blessing. This Easter, evangelism might have to be delivered virtually, with a heavy dose of “God bless your hustle” in the group chat.
Pilgrimages to see relatives in the village? Maybe a rain checks this year. Sending ten buses of cousins back home loaded with souvenirs? Let’s just say that might have to wait until the Naira does a Lazarus and rises from the dead- economically speaking, of course.
This Easter, our celebrations will likely be heavy on gratitude – grateful we still have our jobs, grateful for family, for the roof over our heads, the resilience of our spirits, and the undeniable ability to find humour in even the most challenging situations. Think of it as a chance to reconnect with loved ones on a more personal level, even if it’s just over video calls.
But hey, that’s the Nigerian spirit, isn’t it? We adapt, we improvise, and most importantly, we find joy in the little things. We might be having a smaller Easter this year, but the love, the laughter, and the unwavering belief in a better tomorrow will still be the biggest dishes on the table.
As we raise a, hopefully affordable, cup of Easter wine, let’s hold onto the hope for a Nigeria where the sacrifices of our heroes’ past are reflected in a brighter future. A future where Easter isn’t just about surviving but thriving in a nation that rewards our hustle.
Here’s to a blessed Easter celebration, Nigerians. May it be filled with good company, creative cuisine, and the unwavering spirit that makes us who we are.
