Category: COLUMNS

• As Nation Slumps On Global Happiness Rating 

BY CHIKA KWAMBA/OGORAMAKA AMOS/FAVOUR PERCY IDUBOR/RITA OYIBOKA//JUDITH OBIANUA/PRINCE EJAKPOMEVI

According to the 2026 World Happiness report, Nigeria ranked 106th position out of 147 countries, marking a steady decline on the chart from 105 in 2025 and 102 in 2024. Topping the list for the ninth consecutive time is Finland, followed by Iceland, Denmark, Costa Rica, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Israel, Luxembourg and Switzerland in that order.

Following the unfortunate development, our correspondents sought to gauge the pulse of Nigerians on the report of the survey and what is expected to improve the nation’s lot.

Speaking with The Pointer, Benin-based, mother of two and trader, Mrs Victory Isaiah said, “To be honest, happiness in Nigeria now feels like a luxury, not something ordinary people can afford.

‘’As a mother, your joy is tied to the well-being of your children, and that’s where the problem starts. School fees continue to rise every term, making food a daily struggle due to unpredictable food prices, and healthcare is another significant burden. Sometimes, a child falls sick and instead of focusing on getting them well, you are calculating costs, consultations, drugs, and tests.

‘’As a mother, it’s painful when your children ask for certain things, and you have to say no, not because you don’t want to provide, but because things are just too expensive.

“Then there is electricity. How do you run a home without power? No one needs to tell you how bad the electricity supply has been. You end up spending so much on fuel just to keep the generator on, and even fuel itself is expensive. At the end of the day, whatever little income you make is swallowed by basic survival.

“For me, happiness would be a stable income, affordable food, good schools, good government, and security. But right now, everything feels like a struggle, and it’s hard to say Nigerians are truly happy when parents are constantly worried about the next bill or the next food.”

For a 300-level Computer Science student at the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi Uku, Praise Emegha, the ranking reflects the reality that young people are facing.

“As a student, there’s a constant cloud of uncertainty hanging over your future. You are in school, but you’re not even sure what comes after graduation. Jobs are scarce, and even when they are available, the pay is not encouraging.

“The cost of living is another major issue. Transportation alone can drain your pocket. If you live off-campus, rent is outrageous. Feeding is not easy either; what used to be basic meals are now expensive.

‘’Then you come back to school, and there’s no steady electricity or conducive environment to study. It affects your mental state. Socially, people try to look happy online, but in reality, many are stressed, anxious, and even depressed.”

Meanwhile, a tailor, Mr Samuel Akirinbola, noted that as an entrepreneur, doing business in Nigeria is one of the toughest things right now, and that directly affects your happiness.

“Running a business in Nigeria today will test your mental strength, and that has a direct impact on your happiness. The cost of doing business keeps increasing. Electricity is unreliable, so you depend on generators for beading, sewing, ironing, weaving, everything needs power, and with the high cost of fuel, your expenses keep rising.

‘’I have not seen the light blink since February. At the same time, customers are struggling too, so they spend less. It becomes difficult to make a profit, let alone grow. You find yourself working harder but earning less. Then there are multiple taxes and levies from different agencies, sometimes even unofficial ones. It feels like the system is working against you instead of supporting you.

“To even restock the shop is a problem. Something of N5 today is N15 tomorrow. As an entrepreneur, your happiness is tied to stability and progress. But when you are constantly battling external challenges, it drains you emotionally.

‘’Many business owners are just surviving and borrowing just to not shut down. And when there is no sense of growth or security, it’s hard to feel genuinely happy. Right now, God is my only source of happiness.”

A Civil Servant who only identified as Mrs Grace Oghenekaro said that in the civil service, the reality is that many workers are just managing, not truly living. ‘’Salaries are not keeping up with the rising cost of living. By the time you pay rent, handle transportation, and feed your family, there is little or nothing left.

‘’It creates a cycle where people are constantly under financial pressure. Housing is a major issue. Rent is extremely high, especially in Asaba, and many civil servants have to live far from their workplaces to afford accommodation. That means spending more on transportation.’’

According to another respondent, Engr James Otuto, Nigeria’s ranking as the 106th happiest country reflects a mix of resilience and hardship. ‘’While many citizens remain optimistic, rising living costs continue to reduce overall well-being. Prices of food, rent, and basic goods remain high, making daily survival increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian.

‘’Recent economic reforms have worsened this pressure. The removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation led to a sharp increase in petrol prices, which in turn raised transportation and production costs. Electricity tariffs have also increased, further stretching already limited incomes.

‘’Infrastructural challenges remain a major concern. Unstable electricity supply forces households and businesses to rely on expensive alternatives like generators. At the same time, poor roads, limited healthcare access, and inadequate basic amenities continue to affect the quality of life across many regions.

‘’Insecurity is another critical issue. Recent attacks, kidnappings, and communal conflicts have disrupted livelihoods and created widespread fear. These challenges not only threaten safety but also affect economic activities, contributing to food shortages and financial instability for many Nigerians.’’

Also speaking, a media personality, Anointing Abanum, said Nigeria’s position in global happiness rankings reflects a mix of structural, economic, and social challenges that affect everyday life. ‘’Happiness is strongly influenced by living conditions. In Nigeria, systemic challenges like economic hardship, insecurity, and poor infrastructure combine to limit overall well-being’’.

Meanwhile, a teacher, Beatrice Erheriene, told our correspondent, ‘’For millions of Nigerians, happiness is no longer a steady state of being — it is a fleeting moment, often interrupted by the harsh demands of survival.

‘’In a city that thrives as the hub of Nigeria’s oil economy, there exists a deep contradiction: wealth flows through its systems, yet many residents struggle daily to access the most basic comforts of life.

According to a Bolt driver, Chinedu Okafor, who spoke to our correspondent in Port Harcourt, “I used to enjoy driving round town. Honestly, it gave me freedom, and I could meet different people every day. But now, driving has become a struggle for survival.

‘’Fuel is the biggest issue. Before, I could fill my tank and work comfortably for days. Now, even ₦20,000 of fuel barely lasts. The price keeps going up, and passengers don’t understand. They complain when you increase fares, but they don’t know what we face.

“Sometimes I wake up, and I’m already tired, not physically, but mentally, because the whole situation is draining. You are calculating everything from fuel, car maintenance, to daily target, and at the end of the day, what you have left is small.”

“Happiness? It’s difficult to feel happy when you are constantly worried about making enough money to survive. Even when I smile with passengers, deep down, I am thinking about my next expense”

“What makes it worse is traffic and bad roads. You spend hours on the road burning fuel and stressing yourself. By the time you get home, you don’t even have energy to enjoy life. Honestly, I think Nigerians are strong people. If not, many would have broken down completely.”

Mrs Blessing Amadi, a food vendor, told our correspondent, “Running a food business now is not easy at all. Everything has increased — rice, beans, oil, and even pepper. Sometimes, I go to the market and come back confused because the prices have changed again. Customers complain that food is expensive, but what can I do? If I don’t increase the price, I will run at a loss. If I increase it, they stop buying.

‘’Electricity is another major problem. We hardly have steady light, so I rely on a generator. Fueling the generator daily is another cost. It’s like you are working just to maintain the business, not to grow. As a mother, it affects my happiness deeply. You want to provide for your children, give them a good life, but things are tight.

Sometimes I pretend to be happy in front of my customers, but inside, I am worried. Happiness now is when I make enough sales to cover my costs and still have something left. Before, I used to feel hopeful. Now, I just take things one day at a time.”

Emeka Nwosu, a civil servant who is based in Port Harcourt, spoke to our correspondent. “As a civil servant, salary used to be something you could depend on. But now, it cannot even cover basic needs.

‘’By the time you pay house rent, school fees, electricity bills, and feeding, the money is gone. There is nothing left for comfort or enjoyment. Housing is another issue. Rent is extremely high. Landlords increase rent without considering your income. You are forced to live in places you are not comfortable with.

‘’Happiness becomes secondary when you are constantly under financial pressure. Even weekends are not enjoyable because you are thinking about Monday and expenses.

‘’Another thing is insecurity. You can’t move freely at night like before. You are always cautious, always alert. Sometimes I ask myself — is this the life we hoped for? We work hard, but the reward is not there. To be honest, happiness now is a luxury, but one just tries to cope with things the little way we can to put a smile on our face.”

For Favour Johnson, a student, the pressure is different but still heavy. ‘’Transport fare alone is discouraging. If you don’t have money, you might miss classes. And sometimes, you trek long distances just to save money.

‘’Electricity affects us a lot, too. You want to read, charge your phone, or do assignments, but there is no light. You depend on power banks or generators. Emotionally, it’s draining. You are trying to focus on your future, but the present is already stressful.

‘’Social life is almost non-existent. You can’t afford to go out or relax. Even basic things like hanging out with friends feel like a luxury. Happiness, for me, is when I don’t have to worry about money for a day.”

Corroborating other respondents, Ngozi Eze, Hairdresser, said, “My business depends on customers, but these days, people don’t have money for hair. They prioritise food and essentials. Even the cost of hair products has increased.

Happiness for me used to be about growth — opening a bigger salon, employing people. Now, it’s about sustaining what I have. It’s painful because you know your potential, but the environment is limiting you.”

‘’But despite everything going on, Nigerians still find ways to smile. That’s why the government can throw anything at us because they feel we can cope with whatever situation”

To place these lived experiences in context, Dr Ijeoma Nwoye, a sociologist, explains that happiness is deeply tied to structural realities. “What many Nigerians are experiencing is what we call structural strain. When systems fail to provide basic needs like electricity, security, and economic stability, people shift from living to merely surviving. In such conditions, happiness becomes temporary — something people experience in moments rather than as a consistent state.”

She notes that prolonged hardship leads to emotional exhaustion. “There is a growing level of psychological fatigue in society. People are constantly thinking about money, safety, and survival. Over time, this reduces overall life satisfaction.” According to her, inequality further deepens dissatisfaction. “When people see wealth around them but cannot access even basic comfort, it creates frustration. It’s not just about poverty — it’s about perceived exclusion.”

As she puts it, “Nigerians are not unhappy people by nature. They are people navigating difficult systems. If those systems improve, happiness will naturally follow.”

Similarly, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Raychannels Transport Ltd, Raymond Eboigbe, noted some major contributors to the happiness deficit in Nigeria.

‎According to him, poor electricity affects businesses, healthcare, and overall quality of life. The high cost of living makes it tough for people to afford basic needs, fuel prices impact transportation, businesses, and the economy, lack of basic amenities like water, healthcare, and education is a huge stressor, high house rents are pricing people out, and there is no stability.

‎Speaking with The Pointer in Asaba, a trader, Mrs Ruth Ozondu, reflected on the situation in Nigeria, describing it as an unbearable time for the citizens of the country. According to her, “Prices of food and basic items keep increasing. You can’t plan anymore. Right now it’s more about surviving than considering happiness.”

Similarly, a resident in Okpanam, Mr Collins Okeke, said the cost of running his home has become overwhelming. “There is hardly any joy left in the country, as people are grappling with hardship daily. I can attest to the financial strain, having to spend significant amounts on petrol each day just to keep my family out of darkness at night. Frankly, this year is proving to be particularly challenging,” he said.

Also, a student of Anambra State University, Miss Ukaoma Britney, lamented that the economic crisis in the country has greatly affected her academics, adding that the cost of accommodation in school is rising at an alarming rate.

“House rents keep going up, but there’s no water, no good roads, and no steady electricity. It’s very discouraging, and when you question the landlord on the rent increase, they tell you it’s because of the economy of Nigeria,” she said.

A civil servant in Asaba, who identified himself as Umeh Robert, expressed deep concern over the current state of the nation. “There is little to be happy about in the New Year. The North remains under constant threat of terrorist attacks, power supply across the country is still unreliable, and the recent increase in taxes has only added to the burden. It leaves one wondering whether things will improve or take a turn for the worse, because this is not how I envisioned 2026.”

Similarly, a barber in Asaba, Mr Sunday Okonkwo, highlighted how worsening economic conditions have affected businesses and daily profit margin. “The cost of maintaining my shop, buying petrol, paying rent, and even basic supplies has gone up. Sometimes, after working all day, the profit is very small. It’s becoming harder to cope.”

Speaking, Mrs Solomon Faith stated that there is nothing to be happy about. ‘’Nothing is working in this country, we are not happy, and it’s high time Nigerians stop pretending and face reality. For the past nine months, there has been no light in my area; we are in the dark. The same thing is applicable in other places.

‘’The government should look into the electricity sector and do something about this power failure. Another thing is the high cost of living. High food prices in the market are alarming. High cost of rent. The masses are finding it difficult to survive.

‘’Imagine a civil servant who receives less than N100,000 in a month or a private school teacher who earns N30,000; how do you think that person will survive, especially a family man? There is a need for the government to look into workers’ wages and do justice to them. The hike in fuel prices is frustrating, and transportation fares have increased as well.’’

Speaking with Elizabeth Animeme, she said ‘’The youths are looking forward to the day a youth will rule this country. The needs of the people are ignored. Bad roads, especially federal roads, are all over the country. A journey that will take an hour will exceed four hours because of bad roads.

‘’There are a lot of challenges that need the attention of the government. Education is another issue. An average Nigerian cannot afford a public university’s school fees. Education is the key to success, they say, but the poor cannot afford it due to high school fees. The question is, “Is there a future or hope for this country?

BY CHIKA KWAMBA/JUMAI NWACHUKWU/OGORAMAKA AMOS/PERCY IDUBOR/GRANDBALL CHOICE/PAUL EGEDE

For many Nigerians, the recent increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, has become one of the most pressing economic challenges in recent times. Across the country, petrol prices have continued to fluctuate following ongoing reforms in the petroleum sector, with many filling stations selling between about ₦1,200 and ₦1,350 per litre in several cities.

For small businesses, petrol is not just another commodity; it is a lifeline. It powers generators, drives transportation and logistics, and keeps production activities running in the absence of a stable electricity supply.

In many parts of the country, where small and medium-scale enterprises dominate the local economy, the rising cost of petrol has created a ripple effect across different sectors. Traders, artisans, transport operators and service providers say they are now spending a significant portion of their income on fuel alone.

Many entrepreneurs have been forced to increase the prices of goods and services to survive, while others say declining purchasing power among customers is reducing their sales.

In Delta State, residents have expressed growing frustration over the continued rise in the price of PMS, popularly known as petrol, saying the persistent increases are worsening the cost of living and putting further strain on already stretched household budgets.

Residents who spoke with The Pointer in parts of the state, including Asaba, Warri and Ughelli, lamented that the recent fuel price adjustments have triggered increases in transportation fares, food prices and other essential commodities.

A commercial driver in Asaba, Mr Monday Efe, said the rising cost of petrol has made it difficult for transport operators to sustain their businesses without increasing fares.

“We buy fuel at about N1,300 per litre, which is very high. Before, when the price was lower, we could manage, but now if we don’t increase transport fares, we cannot meet our daily expenses,” he said.

A tricycle (keke) rider, Mr Friday Chukwuma, described the situation as unbearable for many Nigerians. “Just when Nigerians were praising the government over the reduction in fuel scarcity, the price of PMS increased again, without considering how people are struggling to afford three square meals,” he said.

According to him, transportation fares have already gone up significantly. “For instance, a trip from Stadium to Midwifery that used to cost N300 now goes for N400 or N500. The fare to Okpanam Roundabout, which was N400 before, now ranges between N500 and N600 depending on the driver.

“As a parent and a tricycle rider, I can imagine what people are going through in their homes. Increasing transport fares is necessary because of the situation, but it is difficult when you know that people are already suffering, especially schoolchildren who travel long distances to school,” he added.

Similarly, a trader at the popular Ogbogonogo Market in Asaba, Mrs Blessing Okafor, noted that the rising cost of transportation has affected the prices of food items and other goods in the market. “Everything is going up because of fuel. Transporters charge more, and we also have to adjust our prices. Customers complain, but we have no choice,” she said.

In Warri, residents said the situation has forced many households to cut down on non-essential spending as they struggle to cope with daily expenses. Mrs Pamela Oghene, a business owner, described the development as “very difficult,” adding that the fuel hike has affected nearly every aspect of daily life. “Transportation to my shop is now more expensive, and food prices are also rising. The government needs to find ways to ease the burden on the people,” she said. She also appealed to the Federal Government to introduce measures that would cushion the impact of the fuel price increase on citizens, including improved public transportation systems.

Expressing similar concerns, Mr Peters Edem, a public servant, called on the state government to address what he described as the arbitrary increase in transport fares. “As you can see, transport fares across the state have doubled almost overnight. How do you expect us to make ends meet when things continue to get worse? Even with the new minimum wage, our salaries are not enough,” he said.

According to him, the rising cost of living has made it difficult for workers to cope. “Our salaries can barely take us home. If you have to spend about N800 daily on transport alone, imagine what it amounts to at the end of the month,” Edem added.

Meanwhile, a stay-at-home mother, Mrs Patricia Chukwurah, expressed frustration not only over the fuel hike but also over persistent power outages. She lamented that businesses are struggling because many people can no longer afford to buy fuel to power generators.

“The suffering is too much. Everything seems to be happening at the same time. Just when we think things are getting better, another difficult situation comes up,” she said.

Speaking on the development, a Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Government on Project Monitoring and economic analyst, Hon. Onyinye Joseph, said sustained increases in fuel prices could continue to drive inflation and negatively affect small businesses that rely heavily on transportation and energy.

He urged policymakers to implement strategies aimed at stabilising fuel supply and improving local refining capacity to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.

Speaking with our correspondent in Port Harcourt, a food vendor, Mrs Chinyere Okafor, said the hike in fuel prices has eaten almost half of her earnings. According to her, the recent increase in petrol prices has drastically increased the cost of running her small restaurant.

“I depend on a generator to power my freezer to cool drinks, preserve things and sometimes to cook, especially when electricity is not available,” she said. She explained that petrol currently sells around ₦1,150 to ₦1,300 per litre in many filling stations.

“Every two days, I buy about five litres of petrol for my generator. At the current rate of about ₦1,150 per litre, that is almost ₦6,000.” According to her, “When you combine that with the cost of food items like rice, pepper, tomatoes and meat, the profit becomes very small.”

She added that she recently increased the price of a plate of rice from ₦800 to ₦1, 500-₦2,500. “But customers complain because they are also struggling with the economy, plus the fuel matter is not helping at all”

Another respondent, Blessing Douglas, a hairdresser who owns a small salon, said the rising cost of petrol has made running the business much more expensive. “In this salon we use hair dryers, clippers and other electrical equipment, so we must run a generator when there is no electricity,” she explained.

According to her, she buys about four litres of petrol daily. “At about ₦1,200 per litre, which is almost ₦6,000 every day. It really hasn’t been easy because I must use light for my equipment, and I can’t chase customers. Now I charge washing of hair ₦1,200; that’s if they are going to dry the hair with my generator. Some customers just come to wash and go. They don’t dry their hair; they would say the sun will dry it for them. Honestly, I don’t blame them. Everyone wants to save costs.”

Similarly, Mr Emeka Nwankwo, a foodstuff seller who sells cartons of sachet tomatoes, Spaghetti, noodles and cooking oil at Rumuokoro, said the fuel price hike has increased transportation costs for traders. “Most transporters now buy petrol at around ₦1,250 or ₦1,300 per litre, so they have increased transport fares,” he said.

He explained that moving goods from wholesale markets now costs much more than before. “Transporting foodstuffs from Mile Three to this shop used to cost about ₦3,000. Now it can cost ₦6,000 or more.”

According to him, traders often have no option but to add the cost to the price of goods. “I had to add the cost of transportation to the goods because, honestly, the gain is not much. I really pray that the price of fuel returns to normal because it’s really affecting the business.

Also, a dispatch rider, Samuel Etim, said, “I buy about five litres of petrol daily for my motorcycle,” he said, adding that dispatch riders have had to increase delivery charges slightly. “I had to increase my charges for delivery depending on the area in Port Harcourt. I charge from ₦2,500 upwards. Before, I used to charge ₦2,000. But some customers complain because they are also facing financial pressure.”

Mr Kingsley Wobo operates a barbing salon in Rumuodomaya. In his words, “The electricity supply in the area is irregular, and this has forced me to rely on a generator to do my business every day”.

He said, “Some barbers have slightly increased haircut prices to cope with the rising cost because it’s really not fair for us at all. How much do we go home with when we spend almost everything on fuel?”

An economist, Dr Timi Aliye, explained that increases in fuel prices often have widespread consequences across the economy because petrol is a major driver of transportation, production and energy supply in Nigeria.

According to him, the heavy reliance on petrol-powered generators by businesses makes them particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in fuel prices. “In an economy like Nigeria, where electricity supply is inconsistent, petrol becomes an alternative source of energy for most businesses,” he said. “Once the price of fuel increases, the cost of running generators also increases, and this automatically raises the cost of doing business.”

Dr Aliye noted that the impact is particularly severe for small businesses and entrepreneurs who operate with limited capital. “Small and medium-scale enterprises usually operate on very thin profit margins. When fuel prices rise, they have two options—either increase the price of their goods and services or absorb the cost and make less profit.”

He said the situation also affects consumers. “When businesses increase prices to cover fuel expenses, consumers end up paying more for goods and services. This leads to inflationary pressure within the economy.”

According to him, the rising cost of fuel also affects transportation and logistics, which further increases the prices of goods in markets. “Transporters spend more money buying petrol, so they increase fares. Traders also pay more to move goods from one place to another. All these costs eventually reflect in the final price paid by consumers.”

Dr Aliye added that improving the electricity supply would significantly reduce the dependence of small businesses on petrol. “If Nigeria can achieve a stable electricity supply, many businesses will rely less on generators. This will reduce their energy costs and improve productivity.”

In Asaba, an Accountant at Hotel Victoria Plus and Suites, Ms Faith Abiola, said the recent increase in fuel prices is affecting the masses, not only small business owners, adding that high operating costs are forcing many small businesses to scale back operations, postpone expansion plans, or shut down totally.

‘’To keep the business going, many entrepreneurs are forced to reduce their workforce, leading to layoffs and increased unemployment. This has gradually reduced productivity; time spent in the fuel station reduces the time available for production, directly hitting output. Lastly, to gain balance, coupled with the high cost of living, little service is rendered, but high financial input.

‘’Currently, my financial plans for the month have been tempered, especially transportation. The workplace has gradually increased prices on things because of light breakouts, and our standards of service have been affected, even though serving our customers is our priority, but the cost is much higher.’’

In the words of a public servant, Ubaka Okoro, based on recent reports from early March 2026, Nigerians are experiencing severe economic strain following a sharp increase in fuel prices, with petrol surging past ₦1,000 per litre in many parts of the country. This hike, driven by global supply chain disruptions and adjustments by the Dangote Refinery to align with international crude oil prices, has prompted widespread outcry, inflation fears, and a crisis in the transportation sector.

‘’Every Nigerian, regardless of your occupation, whether in small businesses or as entrepreneurs, is affected in general. Firstly, there is widespread frustration and hardship, which has been described as unbearable, with the high cost of living forcing people to cut down on basic needs.

‘’It has reduced movement: Transport fares have doubled in many areas, leading to fewer cars on the road as residents opt to stay home or use public transportation to save money. At this point, we are calling for intervention; demanding that the government intervene and that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) boost local refining to stabilise prices.

Similarly, Treasure Bafuere submitted that Nigeria isn’t the only affected, but the impact is much greater on us. That’s why we are complaining. Yeah, it’s a global thing because of Iran and the USA.

‘’This has led to an increase in the prices of commodities. I think for certain goods, demand might drop, but then my concern is the transport sector, as this is going to affect the masses negatively. For entrepreneurs, SME owners might be affected in different ways.’’

From the diaspora, an anonymous respondent confirmed that the fuel scarcity and hike in prices are not only happening in Nigeria. According to her, ‘’I saw a fuel queue for the first time here in the USA. The fuel prices also went up; the fuel issue is also linked to the current war happening in and around the Middle East.

Also, a Customer Care Representative and entrepreneur, Mary Chizabo, suggested that the hike in fuel price is now becoming like the alternate times of the day and the change of weather.

Meanwhile, residents living in Agbor and environs in Ika South Local Government have reacted differently to the current hike in the price of fuel. Mr Samson Dada, a business owner, said that the hike in petroleum products is a global problem. ‘’Unless there are alternatives to oil, everyone will feel the spill-over effect of the war between the US, Israel and Iran.’’ He added that the four government-owned refineries are not working; they are only active on paper. There are a lot of mafia in the oil sector. Dangote has some battles to fight with the US, too. He therefore advised that having multiple streams of income is the solution to the hardship in Nigeria; life will only get worse.

Another resident, Mr Dominic Ewere, a laundry owner, said the recent fuel price hike is definitely a tough pill to swallow, especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Mr Sunday Ndidi, a barbing salon operator, has decried the current hike in petroleum products, saying that it has affected his take-home, as he runs his business solely on petrol due to the continued light outage across the state. He said customers are not willing to pay a new price for a haircut. Another resident, Mr Eso Okoma, noted that the fuel price hike is a result of the ongoing war between the United States… Israel and Iran. ‘’It is affecting Nigeria because we are part of OPEC, and the only functional refinery working in Nigeria is Dangote. It affects us more because Dangote buys Nigerian crude oil at the international price.

Furthermore, the Agbor Nta Community Youth Leader, Amb. Anthony Abanimoro said categorically that it is not palatable that what is happening in another country could affect the price of petroleum products in Nigeria. This is abysmal.

Mr Anthony said small businesses and entrepreneurs are the most affected in this whole thing. It has reduced motivation for increased productivity, caused a decline in patronage, and production costs will now be more expensive. The most affected are the micro businesses at the grassroots level, as some would hardly find business coming forth for them to be able to feed themselves.

Mr Osamwonyi Friday said, “In fact, this shouldn’t have happened at this time. Just recently, we protested in Benin City due to the epileptic power supply by BEDC. Now, the price of fuel has gone up. It feels like a nightmare. How do they want us to survive this kind of dilemma? This is a double tragedy.

‘’As a business owner, experiencing a total blackout and sudden fuel hike severely limits operations and chokes profitability. It has transformed the operational landscape from a focus on growth to a desperate struggle for survival, with daily fuel costs sometimes consuming 30–40% of income.

The impact on us is enormous. From increasing Operational Costs, to an increase in transportation and logistics, to an increase in prices of raw materials and reduced purchasing power. The situation is so frustrating. Sometimes I feel like sitting back at home. But the question remains, will that put food on my table? struggling continues. Naija, my country, I hail thee.

Another respondent, Beatrice Okosun, a Hair Stylist, said the increase in fuel prices drives up the cost of living, and customers now spend on things that matter most. Sometimes, after spending money on transport to get to your shop, you will not get any patronage. I called one of my customers who always visited every week to know why she didn’t come this week. Her answer was “na who chop de fine”.

Another challenge is that while costs have soared, customers often complain or cannot afford to pay higher prices, forcing business owners to absorb the costs and lose profit.

I’m making plans to install Solar panels to be free from BEDC today, Fuel increase tomorrow. It’s only God that can help us in this country.

Motorists have raised an alarm over the per-second emergency fuel hike in Ughelli North Local Government Area, following the crisis between Iran and Israel.

The continued increase had critically affected the cost of transportation and food items in Ughelli North.

Speaking to our correspondent, Mr Gabriel Osekene berated the federal government for giving excuses for the experience. He said, “The nonstop increment of fuel is killing, and our movement has been curtailed because of the increase without mercy.

“On a normal day, even if there is a fuel hike, you cannot buy in the morning at one rate, in the afternoon another rate and the evening for a different price if it is not pure wickedness.

“About three days ago, I bought fuel for N850 in the morning, and in the afternoon, when I wanted to buy a gallon, it was increased to N1,030, and in the evening of that same day, it was again increased to N1,180.

“The next morning, when I was travelling, it had skyrocketed to N1,300, but later in the afternoon, it was reduced to N1,200, and when we asked, they said the price of crude oil had increased.

BY RITA OYIBOKA/OGORAMAKA AMOS/JUDITH OBIANUA/ AMAYINDI YAKUBU

When the roots of a tree are watered, the branches flourish. Neglect those roots, however, and the entire structure slowly weakens. Societies operate in much the same way. Women, who nurture families, sustain communities, and contribute immensely to economies, form a critical foundation of human development. When their rights, opportunities, and voices are strengthened, societies thrive. When they are constrained by inequality, discrimination, or violence, the consequences ripple across generations.

This central truth lies at the heart of International Women’s Day, which in 2026 is marked under the official theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” complemented by the global campaign “Give To Gain.” The theme underscores an urgent reality: achieving gender equality requires more than policy declarations and symbolic celebrations. It demands structural change, enforceable rights, and concrete action that dismantles the barriers preventing women and girls from fully participating in society.

Observed annually on March 8, International Women’s Day serves as both a celebration of women’s achievements and a reminder of the persistent inequalities that remain. According to the United Nations, women globally possess only 64 per cent of the legal rights available to men. Even where laws exist on paper, weak enforcement and limited access to justice often prevent women from benefiting from them in practice. The 2026 theme, therefore, calls for stronger legal protections, decisive measures to end gender-based violence, equal pay for equal work, and greater representation of women in leadership and decision-making.

Moving beyond rhetoric

In an interview with The Pointer, the Delta State Commissioner of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Hon. Pat Ajudua, underscored the invaluable contributions women make across all spheres of life, political, economic, social, and cultural. Yet, she warned that discussions alone are no longer sufficient. She stressed that the time had come for decisive action.

According to her, gender equality cannot be achieved through speeches and policy statements alone. Instead, governments, institutions, and communities must take concrete steps that genuinely transform the lives of women and girls.

The Commissioner also commended the Delta State Government under the leadership of Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, acknowledging what she described as the administration’s visionary approach to women’s empowerment. She equally praised the First Lady and founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for championing programmes aimed at strengthening opportunities for women across the state.

“These efforts,” she noted, “have not only opened doors of opportunity but have also created platforms for women to excel, lead, and inspire the next generation.”

Highlighting the ministry’s ongoing mandate, the Commissioner reiterated that the ministry remains committed to accelerating action towards a society where women and girls can thrive without fear of discrimination or violence.

She explained that the ministry is determined to eliminate structural barriers that limit women’s participation in development, even amid the persistent socio-economic challenges facing the country.

Addressing women directly, she urged them to recognise their power and pursue their aspirations with determination. “On this special day,” she said, “I urge every woman to recognise her worth, pursue her dreams relentlessly, and support one another in creating a future filled with opportunity and dignity.”

She also acknowledged the role of men as partners in the pursuit of gender equality. “To our men and partners in progress,” she added, “we value your dedication in championing the cause of equality. Together, we can build a Delta State where no woman is left behind, and where the contributions of every woman are recognised, celebrated, and fully realised.”

Cultural patterns and changing narratives

Despite increasing advocacy and policy reforms, gender inequality remains embedded in many social structures.

A certified educator, theologian, and advocate for United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 17, Dorcas Enitan Ajayi, believes Nigeria has made gradual progress but still has a long journey ahead.

According to her, traditional cultural patterns historically prioritised male children over females. “Nigerian culture generally doesn’t really give equal opportunities for girls and boys in education and career paths,” she explained. “Based on the tradition that the female children’s certificate ends in their husband’s house, and the male ones are the ones who will be the heir of the family.”

She noted, however, that the situation has slowly improved over time. “Things are actually taking shape, but not a perfect change; things have actually been improved over time,” she said. “We now have girls having access to education, even though it might not be of equal quality, for both genders, though.”

Ajayi observed that access to opportunities today is influenced not only by gender but also by merit and social connections. “People tend to have access based on merit, while some have access based on connection, maybe somebody knows somebody,” she explained.

While acknowledging that gender disparities still exist, she noted that opportunities sometimes vary depending on the sector. “Some sector provides better opportunities for females than males, while some prefer male than female,” she said.

She reflected a cautious optimism about Nigeria’s evolving social landscape. “I would rather say that the Nigerian society provides opportunities for both genders, depending on the sector, the gender I want to fit into.”

The fight for justice and a fair hearing

When asked about women’s legal rights and the broader struggle for gender justice, Ajayi clarified that her advocacy is not necessarily about competition between men and women. “What I’m fighting for, I as a person, I’m not actually fighting for equality per se,” she said. “What I am fighting for is that what belongs to me should not be denied.”

She emphasised that women deserve access to opportunities that rightfully belong to them, whether earned through merit or granted through social benefits.

Ajayi also spoke about her involvement with Voices Against Rape and Sexual Harassment, an organisation dedicated to supporting victims of abuse. “In this organisation, what is being done basically is to help women, women, ladies, girls, older and young, who face harassment, rape and maybe discrimination or sort of social vices like that,” she explained.

The organisation provides legal support, amplifies survivors’ voices, and assists victims in pursuing justice through the courts. Beyond advocacy, Ajayi believes awareness of legal rights is critical. “I’m aware of my legal rights as a woman or girl child,” she said, adding that she hopes to help more women understand their rights and learn how to defend them.

Justice, investigation, and accountability

Ajayi also emphasised the importance of fair legal processes. “Since we want justice for the female gender, I would want a situation whereby the legislature can pass a law that the judiciary system should uphold,” she said. Such laws, she explained, would ensure that women can voice their concerns without fear of discrimination or intimidation.

She stressed that both genders face harassment, but women often experience it more frequently in certain contexts. Ajayi believed grassroots-level reforms are necessary to encourage victims to speak out.

“If there is enough fair hearing, people will have the confidence to say their displeasure about harassment,” she explained. However, she cautioned that justice must also include a thorough investigation. “The fair hearing should be well investigated so that suspects would not be punished illegally,” she said.

According to her, emotional reactions can sometimes complicate cases, making it important for authorities to approach such matters carefully.

Education and early awareness

One of Ajayi’s strongest recommendations centres on education, particularly early awareness of harassment. She believes girls should be educated from childhood about the different forms of harassment that can take. “Parents should teach their female children different methods or different ways in which they can be harassed,” she said.

Harassment, she explained, is not limited to physical contact. “It’s not only when somebody is touching or when somebody is trying to… although those are the common ones. Other ones are not common, but they are actually harassment.”

She stressed that girls must learn to say no before situations escalate. “It should not get to the point that the person is forcefully lying on them before they now consider it as rape,” she said.

Drawing from personal experience, Ajayi explained that harassment often begins subtly. “From my experience, the harassment started in the form of words, whereby people around me did not really pay attention to it.”

What eventually empowered her to confront the situation, she explained, was access to information. “I got access to a piece of information that helped me to challenge the predator,” she said.

She believes that providing such information, particularly in grassroots communities, could significantly reduce cases of abuse.

Government’s evolving response

Government institutions have also expanded efforts to promote women’s rights. A senior officer with the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Mrs Blessing Nwankwo, said gender equality is increasingly integrated into development programmes. “Over the years, the government has recognised that women play a critical role in social and economic development,” she said.

Because of this recognition, she explained, several policies have been introduced to protect and empower women and girls. One key focus area has been combating gender-based violence.

“Rivers State has domesticated the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which criminalises several forms of abuse, including domestic violence, harmful traditional practices, sexual exploitation, and emotional abuse.” The ministry collaborates with police authorities, health institutions, and non-governmental organisations to support victims.

“When victims report cases, they can access counselling, legal referrals, and sometimes temporary shelter depending on the severity of the situation,” she said.

Economic empowerment as protection

Beyond protection measures, the ministry also prioritises economic empowerment. “We run skill acquisition initiatives for women across various communities,” Nwankwo explained. These programmes provide training in areas such as tailoring, catering, soap making, hairdressing, agricultural production, and small-scale entrepreneurship.

Some initiatives specifically target widows, unemployed women, and single mothers. “When women have the means to earn income, they become less vulnerable to exploitation or abuse,” she said.

Economic independence, she added, enables women to make decisions about their lives with greater confidence.

Structural barriers remain

Despite these programmes, structural challenges persist. Policy analyst Samuel Briggs believes deeply rooted cultural expectations continue to limit women’s opportunities.

“In many communities, girls are raised with the expectation that their primary role will revolve around family responsibilities,” he said. While family life is important, such expectations sometimes discourage women from pursuing leadership positions or demanding careers.

Briggs also highlighted economic disparities. “Many women operate within the informal sector, selling goods in markets, running small shops, or engaging in small-scale farming,” he explained. Although these activities are vital to the economy, they often lack financial security and access to formal credit.

He added that women’s underrepresentation in politics further complicates the situation. “When women are absent from decision-making spaces, issues affecting them may not receive adequate attention.”

The role of civil society

Civil society organisations have played a major role in raising awareness about women’s rights.

Gender advocate Ifunanya Okeke noted that public attitudes toward domestic violence have changed significantly over the past five years. “In the past, many cases of domestic abuse were treated as private family matters that should not be discussed publicly,” she said.

Today, however, more people recognise gender-based violence as a serious human rights violation. Advocacy campaigns, including school workshops, community outreach programmes, and media engagement, have helped change perceptions. “Victims are now more willing to speak out,” she added.

However, she warned that support infrastructure remains insufficient. Shelters, counselling centres, and legal aid services are still limited in many communities.

Voices of young women

For many young women, progress has been noticeable but incomplete. Tonia Alabo, an engineering student, believes stereotypes still influence educational choices. “In many classrooms, there is still a perception that science and technical subjects are better suited for boys,” she said.

However, she acknowledged that more girls are entering fields such as engineering and technology. “Universities and professional organisations are also creating mentorship programmes that encourage female participation,” she explained.

Yet balancing career ambitions with societal expectations remains a challenge for many women.

Legal protections and the reality gap

From a legal perspective, Nigeria’s constitution provides several protections for women. Barr Ngozi Iheduru explained that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 guarantees equality before the law. She cited Section 42, which prohibits discrimination based on sex, religion, ethnic group, or place of origin.

“This constitutional provision clearly establishes that women and men are equal before the law,” she said.

Section 17(2) further emphasises equality of rights and opportunities. However, she noted that enforcement challenges remain significant. “Many women do not pursue legal action because of financial constraints, social stigma, or lack of awareness,” she explained.

Bridging law and justice

Human rights lawyer Faith Opara emphasised that legal guarantees alone are insufficient. “The Nigerian Constitution provides equality before the law, but justice can only be achieved when legal processes are accessible, affordable, and efficient,” she said.

She referenced Section 34 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to dignity and prohibits degrading treatment. Acts such as domestic violence and sexual assault violate this constitutional protection.

Opara believes cases involving gender-based violence should be fast-tracked in courts. “Lengthy court processes can discourage victims from pursuing justice,” she explained.

Persistent cultural bias

Other observers point to ongoing cultural bias. A public school teacher, Mrs Ijeoma Obiora, noted that gender discrimination can be seen even within educational institutions. “In schools, especially in mixed schools, the boy is made the senior prefect while the girl supports him,” she said.

She explained that leadership roles are often automatically assigned to male students. “I have not seen where the boy is an assistant even in the church,” she added.

According to her, cultural perceptions of men as natural leaders continue to influence decision-making.

The strategy of “Give to Gain”

Amid these challenges, global advocates emphasise strategic investment in women. UN Eminent Ambassador and Gender Priority Strategist Ogochuku Okekpolo highlighted the significance of the “Give to Gain” campaign.

“Across the world, especially in Africa, the needs of women are not uniform,” she explained. “Some require fundamental support, food security, clean water, safety, access to healthcare, and education. Others need opportunity, access to finance, enterprise platforms, leadership inclusion, and mentorship.”

Yet the principle remains consistent. “Every intentional investment in women produces exponential returns,” she said. When girls gain access to education, she noted, the benefits extend far beyond academic achievement. “They improve their health, increase their earning capacity, and strengthen the future of their children.”

Similarly, empowering women economically can transform communities. “A rural woman with clean water gains time for enterprise, family, and community leadership,” she explained. “A female entrepreneur with capital creates jobs and strengthens local economies.”

IWD: The unfinished journey

International Women’s Day 2026, therefore, arrives as both a celebration and a challenge. The celebration lies in the undeniable progress that has been made, greater awareness of women’s rights, expanding educational opportunities, stronger legal frameworks, and a growing network of advocates.

Yet the challenge remains equally clear.

From cultural expectations and economic inequality to gaps in legal enforcement and limited political representation, structural barriers still prevent millions of women from fully exercising their rights.

The message of this year’s theme is therefore unmistakable. Rights must be protected.

Justice must be accessible.

And action must follow words.

Only then can the roots of society be properly nourished, ensuring that women and girls everywhere can grow, lead, and flourish.