Viral TikToker Challenges 10 'Normalised' Nigerian Daily Struggles

A recent viral video by a TikTok user has sparked conversations online after she outlined ten practices she believes Nigerians have come to accept as routine, despite their inherent abnormality. The user critically examined several aspects of daily life, questioning why these have become so ingrained in society.

Among the points raised, the TikToker highlighted the prevalent culture of holding multiple jobs and working extensive hours from dawn till dusk, yet still finding it difficult to meet basic needs. She also pointed out the societal pressure on parents to expect their children to achieve financial independence immediately upon completing their education.

The issue of lengthy daily commutes was also brought to the fore, with the user noting that many Nigerians spend between two to four hours travelling to and from work each day. Furthermore, she addressed the reluctance of individuals to take well-deserved vacations, often driven by anxiety over potential issues that might arise in their absence.

Another significant concern raised was the guilt felt by young Nigerians for aspiring to more than mere survival, suggesting a culture that discourages ambition beyond basic needs. The TikToker also criticised the 'who-you-know' syndrome, where personal connections are often deemed essential for accessing opportunities.

She further observed the tendency to inquire about a person's income before asking if they genuinely enjoy their work, indicating a prioritisation of financial gain over job satisfaction. The user also touched on the common advice given to university graduates to immediately acquire additional skills, implying that their academic degrees alone are often considered inadequate for securing employment.

Finally, the TikToker underscored the paradoxical situation where holding a university degree is often not enough, as individuals are expected to possess a myriad of supplementary skills, work experience, certifications, and even connections to become truly employable. She concluded by stating that these realities have become so deeply embedded in the Nigerian psyche that many no longer question their normalcy, emphasising, “it’s not normal.”