I almost closed my car wash.
That was 2022. No customers. Debt. Loan apps calling.
But 3 lessons saved me. Not big school grammar. Just street lessons that work in Nigeria.
If you’re doing business here in Ibadan, Lagos, or anywhere in Nigeria, these 3 will save you too.
May 2026. My phone rang. "Hello Oluwamuyiwa, your loan of ₦10,000 is due today.
I borrowed that money 2 weeks ago to buy data and cook stew. Not business. Not investment. Just lifestyle.
By the time I paid back ₦12,000, my salary had already entered and finished.
March 2026. Salary entered ₦120,000. By day 18, I was begging for transport. NEPA, food, rent, family. One salary could not carry all. I sat down and said: "Oluwamuyiwa, if this is your only money, you will be broke forever."
February 2026. NEPA brought "estimated bill" ₦18,500. Same week, my tooth swelled like your toe did. Hospital: ₦12,000.
My salary was ₦120,000. By Friday, account was ₦2,000. I borrowed from a friend to buy food.
That was Mistake 3: No emergency fund. I had budget, I was saving 20%... but I had zero money for "wahala days".