10 Ways Nigerians are Cutting Costs and Saving More Money

Prices in Nigeria continue to rise, but salaries remain the same, or you get a paltry raise. From fuel hikes to food inflation, many of us are spending more than we should on things we could easily make at home.

You might think it takes too much time or skill, but the truth is, a few simple swaps can save you thousands each month without sacrificing your lifestyle.

Whether you’re trying to stay ahead of mid-month “broke” or just looking to make your income stretch, these practical do-it-yourself (DIY) ideas will help you cut costs, stress less, and maybe even spark a new money-making habit on the side.

1. Homemade Snacks

From chin-chin to granola bars, making your own snacks at home is not only more affordable but also healthier. A ₦2,500 pack of store-bought granola? You can triple that quantity with half the cost using oats, honey, and peanuts.

Helpful Tip: Batch prep your snacks and store them in airtight containers; you’ll snack less and save more.

2. Natural Skincare Products

Instead of buying expensive face scrubs or masks, consider DIY alternatives. A simple mix of honey, turmeric, and lemon can do wonders for your skin and cost under ₦500.

 Fewer chemicals, more savings, and glowing skin on a budget.

3. Cleaning Products

You’d be surprised how effective vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be when it comes to cleaning your kitchen or bathroom.

These natural alternatives are gentler on the environment and your nose.

4. Fruit Juices and Smoothies

Instead of spending that ₦1,200 on pineapple juice at the supermarket, you can blend your own for a fraction of the cost using fresh fruits from your local market.

Pro Hack: Freeze fruits before they go bad and use them later for smoothies

5. Hair Treatments

DIY protein treatments using eggs, coconut oil, or aloe vera can revive your hair without the salon bill.

Savings Insight: Instead of spending ₦5,000–₦10,000 monthly at a salon, you can treat your hair naturally and affordably at home.

6. Gift Items

Why buy generic mugs or hampers when you can personalise gifts yourself? Handmade cards, baked goods, or framed quotes are often more thoughtful and cost-effective.

7. Plant-Based Milk

Oat or coconut milk is surprisingly easy to make. YouTube is filled with five-minute tutorials. Stop spending ₦2,500 per bottle and start blending

8. Home Decor

Instead of splurging on wall art or table decor, try DIY hacks with spray paint, old bottles, or fabric cutoffs. Pinterest and Instagram are treasure troves of Nigerian-style décor ideas.

9. School Lunches

For parents, packing lunch at home saves a lot more than daily trips to the tuck shop. With a bit of planning, you can feed your kids healthier and more affordably.

10. Body Scrubs & Oils

Coffee grounds combined with coconut oil make a fantastic body scrub. Shea butter mixed with essential oils equals a moisturising powerhouse.

 These can also be turned into a side hustle if you get good at it 

You don’t need to overhaul your entire life to save money; just a few intentional changes can make a big difference. Start with what feels easiest, get the hang of it, and build from there. Over time, you’ll notice your wallet breathing easier, and you might even enjoy the process more than you expected.

Saving isn’t always about sacrifice; sometimes, it’s about getting creative with what you already have.