From Hustles to Highlights: How Nigerians Made 2024 a Vibe"

As the harmattan breeze ushers us into the festive season, it's time to look back at 2024—a year that was equal parts wahala, progress, and pure Naija vibes. From tech innovations to unforgettable jollof wars, 2024 was truly a gbedu wey burst.

Tech and the Nigerian Hustle

This year, Nigeria embraced technology like never before. From AI-powered apps helping Lagosians navigate Danfo routes to agricultural drones revolutionizing farming in Kaduna, tech was the real MVP. Even our beloved "Oga at the top" announced a national digital ID rollout—although, let’s be real, some of us are still wondering if the queue will finish before Jesus comes.

Speaking of queues, self-checkout machines arrived in some supermarkets, proving one thing: Nigerians will outsmart machines. Who else can figure out how to scan yam tubers as "plantain"?

Climate and Clean Energy: From Gen to Solar

In a year of global climate action, Naija joined the race with some wins. Solar-powered boreholes sprang up in rural areas, and electric minibuses started test runs in Abuja. Who could forget the viral moment when NEPA announced its longest streak of uninterrupted power supply—48 hours in some states! Yes, we can dream. Let us not even talk about Band A-Q

But while the government preached “green energy,” the streets reminded us of another constant: the almighty generator. Whether it’s I pass my neighbour or big oga gens, 2024 showed us that Naija’s love for noise-making engines might take more than one year to break. Nevertheless, most houses switched to inverters and others solar: where dem wan see fuel take run gen?

Politics: More Drama than Nollywood

If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that Nigerian politics will always be entertaining. Election tribunals were as suspenseful as King of Boys, while politicians blamed their mistakes on everyone but themselves—typical! But amidst the gbas gbos, young Nigerians showed up. From organizing protests to taking part in local governance, Gen Z and Millennials reminded everyone that soro soke is not just a slogan; it’s a movement.

And while our leaders debated budgets, Nigerians debated something even more important: whether to include stew or egusi in Christmas rice. Priorities!

Entertainment: Naija No Dey Carry Last

2024 was another banger year for Nigerian entertainment. Afrobeats continued its global reign, with artists like Burna Boy, Asake, and Ayra Starr shutting down stages worldwide. Meanwhile, Nollywood dropped back-to-back hits, not forgetting the weddings and lovers peppering our screens that had us shouting, “God when?”

On social media, challenges kept us laughing. Remember the “Jollof or Nothing” challenge, where people turned leftovers into Michelin-star-worthy meals? Only in Naija! And don’t forget the viral dance trend where uncles at weddings outshined professional dancers. Naija weddings are undefeated.

Wrapping Up with Naija Hope

Through fuel price hikes, exchange rate wahala, and daily sapa jokes, Nigerians stayed resilient. This year reminded us that laughter is our unofficial national anthem, and no matter how tough things get, we always find a reason to celebrate.

So, as the year ends, let’s raise a glass of zobo (or small stout, no judgment). Here’s to a brighter 2025 filled with less wahala and more wins. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Naija! 🎄✨