How to Survive Sapa in a Nigerian University

In Nigerian universities, “Sapa” is a popular term every student is all too familiar with. It represents a state of financial hardship, the dreaded period when funds run low and students must stretch every naira to survive. Sapa isn’t just a phase—it’s a lifestyle that many students reluctantly adopt during the academic session.

I know you might be doubting your money management skills everytime, just remember this: It’s not you, it’s Nigeria.

Here’s a reality check:

You’re probably doing your best to save money, but the truth is, it’s hard to outsmart the Nigerian economy. Let’s break it down:

• Government-induced Sapa is real:

  Prices for fuel, food, house rent and even school fees have skyrocketed. You could be spending most of your money on just transportation due to the increased cost of fuel, it’s hard not to feel the pinch. Those students living Off-Campus quite far away from school will definitely go through alot when it becomes hard to escape hard times.

• Inflation is out of control:

  No matter how carefully you budget, your ₦5k-₦10k is not stretching the way it used to. Before you know it, it’s gone, and it’s not your fault. You’re literally spending on the basics only to see yourself broke again.

• The naira is falling apart like someone going through heartbreak:

  With a currency that’s losing value daily, everything costs more—except your pocket money or allowance, which probably hasn’t increased in ages. Not all students even receive allowance or pocket money, so it’s a different struggle for students who are trying to survive in school with no allowance. Whenever you see someone who can give you free money in this economy, just embrace that person and the money like someone who is deeply falling in love.

• It’s not wasteful; it’s survival:

  Sometimes, you might feel guilty for spending on things that seem unnecessary, like a slice of cake or even shawarma. But if that cake is the only thing keeping you from fainting after a week of endless assignments and stress, it’s a necessity. Don’t forget to give yourself a nice treat sometimes even in the midst of going through hard times.

So, while you’re trying to survive this new academic session, keep this in mind: It’s not you, it’s Nigeria. You’re doing your best with what you have. Don’t be too hard on yourself when Sapa hits. Instead, focus on these few strategies.

• Create a Realistic Budget
• Cook Your Own Food or consider group cooking with roommates or friends can also help you save costs by buying ingredients in bulk.
• Avoid too much Impulsive Spending
• Many students survive by taking on jobs such as tutoring, freelancing, or offering services like graphic design, content writing and even own a small business as an online vendor. Even if it’s something small, it can help put some extra cash in your pocket.
• Be Smart About Transportation
• Live Within Your Means

See also: 7 Experiences Every DELSU Fresher Knows to Be True

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Remember, you’re not alone in this and it ’s not about how much you have, but how well you manage it.