Rema, the acclaimed Nigerian singer, recently revealed in an interview that he was “hustling” at the age of 16. This statement offers a glimpse into the realities faced by many young people in Nigeria, who are forced to take on significant responsibilities at a tender age. Hustling, in this context, often refers to the relentless pursuit of income or opportunities, often in unconventional or challenging circumstances.
The Economic Pressures on Nigerian Youth
The high rate of poverty and unemployment in Nigeria has led to a growing number of young people who are compelled to become the primary breadwinners for their families. This economic pressure can force them to engage in various hustling activities, ranging from informal jobs to more risky endeavors.
Common Hustling Activities Among Nigerian Youth
Street vending: Many young people can be found selling various items on the streets, including snacks, drinks, and household goods.
Commercial motorcycle (okada) riding: This is a popular means of transportation in Nigeria, and many young people earn a living by driving okadas.
Informal trading: This can involve selling goods at local markets or online platforms.
Construction work: Young people may find employment in the construction industry, often in physically demanding roles.
Domestic work: Some young people may work as domestic helpers or housekeepers.
While these activities can provide a means of survival, they often come with significant risks. For example, okada riders face the danger of accidents, while street vendors may encounter harassment or theft.
Additionally, many young people who engage in these activities are unable to complete their education, which can limit their future prospects.
The Impact of Hustling on Young People’s Lives
Hustling at a young age can have a profound impact on a person’s life. It can lead to:
Physical and emotional exhaustion: The demands of hustling can be physically and emotionally draining, particularly for young people who are still developing.
Educational setbacks: The need to work can interfere with education, leading to academic difficulties or dropout.
Increased risk of exploitation: Young people who are forced to hustle may be more vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous individuals or organizations.
Limited social opportunities: The demands of hustling can leave little time for leisure or socializing, which can negatively impact a young person’s mental health and well-being.
The Need for Support and Empowerment
It is clear that the issue of young people hustling in Nigeria is a complex one. To address this problem, it is essential to provide support and empowerment to these individuals. This could include:
Education and training programs:
Providing access to education and vocational training can help young people develop the skills they need to secure better-paying jobs.
Youth empowerment initiatives:
Programs that focus on building young people’s confidence, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial spirit can help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Economic opportunities: Creating more jobs and economic opportunities for young people can reduce the pressure on them to hustle.
Social safety nets: Implementing social safety nets, such as unemployment benefits and affordable healthcare, can provide a cushion for young people who are struggling to make ends meet.
By addressing these issues, we can help to create a more equitable and just society for young people in Nigeria.
To provide a more comprehensive understanding of the hustling experiences of Nigerian youth, I have included interviews and perspectives from individuals who have firsthand knowledge of these activities.
Interview with a Former Street Vendor
Name: Ola Age: 25 Current Occupation: Small business owner
Ola started selling snacks on the streets of Lagos at the age of 12 to help support his family. He recalls the challenges of working long hours in the hot sun and the constant fear of harassment or theft.
“It was tough, but I had to do it. I wanted to make sure my family had enough to eat. I would wake up very early and stay out until late at night, trying to sell as much as I could. Sometimes, I would get into arguments with other vendors or even with the police.”
Despite the hardships, Ola’s experience selling on the streets helped him develop important skills, such as resilience, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. He eventually saved enough money to start his own small business.
Interview with a Youth Advocate
Name: Amina Organization: Youth Empowerment Initiative
Amina works with a non-governmental organization that provides support and resources to young people in Nigeria. She has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by many young people who are forced to hustle.
“Hustling at a young age can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. It can lead to educational setbacks, mental health problems, and even physical harm. We need to create more opportunities for young people to pursue their education and find meaningful employment.”
Amina believes that it is essential to provide young people with the skills and support they need to succeed. Her organization offers programs that focus on education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship.
Perspective from a Community Leader
Name: Babatunde Role: Community leader
Babatunde is a community leader in a low-income neighborhood in Lagos. He has observed the increasing number of young people who are forced to hustle to survive.
“It’s a sad reality, but many of our young people have no choice but to hustle. They are trying to help their families and provide for themselves, but they are often facing insurmountable challenges. We need to work together to create a more equitable and just society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
Babatunde emphasizes the importance of providing young people with access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities. He also believes that it is crucial to address the underlying causes of poverty and inequality in Nigeria.
These interviews and perspectives offer valuable insights into the experiences of Nigerian youth who are forced to hustle. It is clear that this is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. By understanding the challenges faced by these young people, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive society.
Moses Ezechukwu,
Nigeria Magazine
