The Bride Price Mentality: Balancing Tradition and Equality in Marital Practices

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         In many communities across Africa, Asia, and beyond, bride price remains a significant marital tradition. Often presented as a gesture of honor to the bride’s family for raising a daughter, it can symbolize respect and family unity.  Yet, in some contexts, this practice carries an uncomfortable undertone: it can imply that women are goods to be exchanged, that love requires payment, and that marriage prioritizes economic ties over mutual partnership. For generations, bride price has been called tradition. But for many women, especially where it’s transactional, it can feel like a contract—one that shapes their value and limits their freedom. By exploring its complexities, we can honor cultural heritage while addressing its challenges in today’s world. Where Bride Price Shapes Marriage Dynamics Nigeria Among Nigeria’s Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa communities, bride price is a cultural cornerstone, ranging from symbolic gifts to su...
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Kolo, Ajo, and Esusu: Do Old Nigerian Saving Systems Still Work Today?

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          For decades, Nigerians have relied on traditional savings systems like ajo, esusu, thrift contributions, and basic bank savings to manage their finances.

But with The price of land, rent, and food is doubling, but your savings are standing still. If you save in naira, inflation will eat your money before you can enjoy it.

You’re not just losing money, you’re losing time – and time is wealth! Embrace new savings systems to protect your wealth. What are these systems?

1. Save in Foreign Currency (USD, GBP, EUR, etc.)

Nigeria’s inflation rate is one of the highest in the world. when you save in naira using old methods, your money loses value over time.

 Saving in foreign currency (USD, GBP, EUR, etc.), using domiciliary accounts, or apps that allow forex savings would protect your money from naira devaluation.

2. Invest in Real Estate Instead of Savings that don’t build wealth

Systems like Akawo, Ajo, Esusu, Adashe do not generate interest or profit. At the end of the cycle, you get back less than what you put in because you are paying someone to save for you.
 Instead of locking money in these systems, consider investing in land, rental properties, co-ownership. Start small and let it appreciate over time.

3. Use Cryptocurrency for Long-Term Wealth Storage

Keeping money in a Nigerian bank gives you an interest rate of around 2-4% per year, while inflation is over 20%.

- USDT (Tether) or USDC helps save in dollars without a bank.

- Investing in Bitcoin and Ethereum lets your money appreciate long-term .

    There are reputable crypto wallets like Binance, Coinbase, or Luno that’ll help you grow your wealth instead of letting it shrink.

4. Saving for investments

Don’t get us wrong , saving money has it’s importance. When it comes to Saving for years in bank accounts or thrift contributions to invest, it’s a mistake Because The price of the investment often increases faster than inflation or growing in a bank.

Instead of leaving money idle in a bank for an investment you currently can’t afford, put it where it can grow in the meantime by either doubling down on your current income stream or starting more affordable one.



Conclusion 

      The old way of saving money keeps Nigerians poor. To escape financial stagnation and build wealth, you must embrace systems that grow your money and protect your wealth. The goal is not just to save money, but to make money work for you.

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