When Christmas Was Christmas In Nigeria: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time, by Isaac Asabor

Christmas in Nigeria has always been more than a religious celebration, particularly as it used to be a cultural phenomenon that binds families, friends, and communities together. Back in the day, the season symbolized abundance, joy, and unity. The excitement leading up to Christmas was palpable, as families prepared to indulge in festivities that would leave lasting memories. However, in today’s Nigeria, the holiday spirit is increasingly clouded by economic anxieties and the struggle to afford even the simplest of celebrations.

In the 1970s through the early 2000s, when Nigeria’s economy was relatively stable, Christmas was a time of pure joy. For most families, rice was affordable, chicken was plentiful, and new clothes were a staple for the season. Many parents saved up throughout the year to ensure their children had the best Christmas experience.  

Neighborhoods came alive with colorful decorations, blaring carols, and the smell of freshly baked treats. Children eagerly awaited the arrival of Santa Claus at community events, while adults busied themselves with preparations for elaborate feasts. The transportation sector also catered to the season, with fares that were pocket-friendly, allowing families to visit loved ones in their hometowns without breaking the bank.  

It was not just about material abundance; it was about the sense of togetherness and hope that defined the season. Families looked forward to Christmas with nostalgic anticipation, counting down the days in joyous expectation. Some joked that if it were possible, they would have adjusted the calendar to celebrate the holiday earlier.

Without resort to sounding exaggerative in this context, there is this nostalgic feelings in those of us who are now beyond 50 years of age, on how Christmas was celebrated in Nigeria’s good old days. This is as Christmas in Nigeria has traditionally been a cherished family event, a time for reunions, joy, and shared festivities. In earlier years, when the economy was relatively stable, the holiday season brought families together in a special way. Those living in cities often traveled back to their ancestral villages, where grandparents and older relatives resided, to celebrate and strengthen family bonds.

Then, Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity was reflected in the various ways Merry Christmas was expressed in different languages without being afraid of hearing in return “Where is my Christmas gift”. During Christmas celebration, it was common to hear Nigerians greet joyously greet loved ones, “Barka dà Kirsìmatì” in Hausa, “E ku odun”, e ku iye’dun” in Yoruba, “Jabbama be salla Kirismati” in Fulani, “E keresimesi Oma” in Igbo, “Idara ukapade isua” in Ibibio, “Mgbeni Akan ile” in Ika dialect,  and “Iselogbe” in Edo. These greetings embody the nation’s festive spirit.

Christmas Eve was a time of all-night celebrations, with families hosting lively parties filled with music and dance. On Christmas morning, people thronged to churches to give thanks and celebrate the birth of Christ. Homes and streets were adorned with colorful decorations, and many families set up artificial Christmas trees as focal points of their celebrations.

Children particularly enjoyed the season, playing with firecrackers and delighting in visits from church choirs singing carols at their homes. Exchanging Christmas cards and presents was a cherished tradition, with parents often taking their children, dressed in new outfits, to meet Santa Claus.

The Christmas meal was a highlight of the celebration, featuring a rich array of dishes. Alongside turkey, families feasted on delicacies such as beef, goat, ram, or chicken, paired with beloved staples like pounded yam, jollof rice, fried rice, vegetable salad, and savory stews. 

These traditions created a tapestry of warmth and joy that many Nigerians fondly remember, a time when the season truly embodied togetherness and festivity.

Fast forward to present-day Nigeria, and the Christmas narrative has shifted dramatically. Rising inflation, a depreciating naira, and widespread economic challenges have turned what was once a season of joy into a period marked by anxiety and financial strain.  

The affordability of staple items like rice, chicken, and beverages has dwindled significantly. A bag of rice that cost less than ₦10,000 a few years ago now sells for close to ₦100,000, and even over  ₦100,000; depending on the brand, in some markets. Many families who once prepared lavish meals for Christmas now struggle to provide even the basics. As one market woman lamented, “How person wan cook Jollof rice when everything don cost? Even garri self no cheap again.”

Buying new clothes for Christmas was once a cherished tradition in Nigerian households. Parents took pride in dressing their children in the finest outfits for church services and family gatherings. Today, the high cost of clothing has made this practice a luxury rather than a norm. Many parents now opt for second-hand clothes, or simply make do with what they already have, while children miss out on the joy of showing off their “Christmas dress.”  

For those who still manage to prepare food and clothes, the cost of transportation adds another layer of hardship. Traveling to hometowns, once a quintessential part of Christmas in Nigeria, has become an ordeal. Fuel scarcity and inflated transport fares have made it nearly impossible for many families to reconnect with loved ones during the festive season.  

The harsh economic realities have reshaped how many Nigerians perceive Christmas. Instead of looking forward to the holiday, some now approach it with dread, worrying about how to meet societal expectations. A common sentiment echoes across conversations: “Make Christmas just pass; at least when there is life, there is hope. “This resignation highlights the extent to which economic struggles have dampened the festive spirit.  

In the face of these challenges, Nigerians have developed a coping mechanism rooted in resilience and philosophy. Phrases like “At least we are alive” and “Life nor get duplicate” reflect a collective attempt to find solace in the intangible aspects of life. While the grandeur of past Christmases may be unattainable, the season’s core essence; hope and gratitude, remains intact for many.  

The societal pressure to “celebrate big” during Christmas adds to the anxiety. In a country where community and appearances play significant roles, failing to meet festive expectations can lead to feelings of shame and inadequacy. Families who cannot afford to celebrate as they once did often withdraw from social interactions to avoid judgment.  

Despite the challenges, there are efforts to revive the Christmas spirit in Nigeria. Community-driven initiatives, such as food banks and charity events, aim to support struggling families during the holiday season. Religious organizations and NGOs are also stepping in to provide relief, ensuring that no one is left out of the celebrations entirely.  

Moreover, many Nigerians are finding innovative ways to make the most of what they have. From DIY decorations to potluck gatherings, and street carnivals, the emphasis is gradually shifting from material abundance to shared experiences and genuine connections.  

Christmas in Nigeria has transformed from a season of abundance to one of resilience. While the economic landscape has undeniably altered how the holiday is celebrated, the Nigerian spirit of hope, gratitude, and community remains unbroken.  

As the country navigates its economic challenges, perhaps the lesson lies in redefining what Christmas means. Beyond the food, clothes, and gifts, the season is ultimately about love, togetherness, and the birth of hope, a message that resonates deeply in these trying times.