Christmas for students of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) comes with its unique blend of joy and challenges, and many of the students have made conscious efforts to celebrate their Christmas in the best way they can. While the school management did not officially announce a break, some students have travelled home to celebrate with family, with others staying back on campus, balancing the holiday spirit with academic commitments. In previous sessions, for instance during the 2021/2022 academic session, the festivities were overshadowed by exams, but this year, students somehow found their way around a break, albeit under Nigeria’s tough economic realities. For many students, Christmas is about finding creative ways to celebrate within their means.
We spoke with Fiyinfoluwa who shared her gratitude for being home this Christmas despite the country’s harsh economy. She remarked, “We glorify God for His provision. We prepared jollof rice and served my community, which is predominantly Muslim. It’s been a fulfilling way to celebrate.”
Odunayo, who also made it home, described the atmosphere as lively, with food and drinks flowing. However, the thought of impending tests and exams linger in the background, adding seriousness to his celebrations. Reflecting on Nigerians’ resilience, he noted, “We complain about the economy all year, but during Christmas, goats and chickens are still being slaughtered in compounds. Somehow, people always pull it off.”
For Akeem, Christmas means stepping out for some fun, even if it’s not the luxurious celebration he envisions. “I’m outside for obleeee,” he quipped, expressing gratitude despite the limitations. Ideally, he would have loved to travel abroad for the holidays, but the financial strain keeps him grounded.
Shade, at home for the holidays, finds the season hectic but rewarding. “The day starts with preparations, but as it ends, I’m filled with gratitude for the love and connection around me,” she shared. She acknowledges the economic pressures but insists that Christmas, being a once-a-year event, deserves celebration, even on a budget.
For Samson, the festivities are enjoyable, though not without compromise. He had hoped to buy himself a new device for Christmas but couldn’t due to financial constraints. Still, he remains optimistic, finding joy in the season’s simpler pleasures.
Despite economic challenges, OAU students are embracing the Christmas spirit with creativity and gratitude, making the most of their resources to create meaningful and memorable celebrations.
How is Christmas going at your end? Did you stay back on Campus or went home to commemorate the holidays? Let us know in the comments! We look forward to hearing from you.
