We are just 2 days away from Christmas. For many Nigerian Christians, is a time for joy and spending time with loved ones. During this time, a lot of individuals give gifts, decorate their homes, and take part in holiday customs and celebrations. The streets of Lagos are already bubbling.
This s also the time Nigerians spend recklessly. Yes, people will spend money on a variety of things over this period, including gifts for family and friends, Christmas decorations, and food and beverages for get-togethers.
Some people may travel to see family members or participate in holiday events, both of which might add to their expenses. In Nigeria, a lot of people like to spend more during the Christmas season in order to partake in the festivities and customs of the holiday.
Here are some tips for spending wisely during Christmas:
Make a budget: Set a budget for the gifts and another holiday spending that you can afford, and stick to it.
List everything: Make a list of everyone you need to buy presents for, along with the gifts you want to get each person. You can stay organized and limit your spending by doing this.
Use cash or a debit card: Using cash or a debit card can help you stay within your budget because you can only spend what you have. Avoid using credit cards, which can lead to debt.
Don’t forget about other expenses: In addition to gifts, there are often other holiday expenses like decorations, party supplies, and travel costs. Make sure to include these in your budget.
Compare prices: Find the best pricing by comparing prices at various retailers and online. Never be scared to bargain or request discounts.
A handcrafted present can be just as considerate as one purchased at a store, and they are frequently less expensive.
Shop early: Start your holiday shopping early to take advantage of sales and to give yourself time to find the best deals.
Think outside the box: Instead of buying physical gifts, consider giving experiences, like tickets to a concert or a gift certificate for a massage.
Avoid impulsive purchases: It’s simple to get carried away with the holiday season’s excitement and buy things you don’t need. Try to resist the urge by pausing to consider whether you should want something before you buy it.
Don’t overdo it: It’s easy to get carried away during the holiday season, but remember that it’s not about how much you spend, it’s about spending time with loved ones and celebrating the holiday season.
Latifat Fashina 
Peter Oluka