Let’s face it: Nigerians have perfected the art of extra. Whether it’s turning a simple birthday into a carnival or a naming ceremony into a small-scale Coachella, “doing the most” isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a birthright.
But what fuels this unrelenting commitment to grandeur? Buckle up, because we’re diving into this mystery with enough humor to make even your stingiest uncle share his WiFi.

1. Fear of Disgrace: The Ultimate Fuel
In Nigeria, the fear of disgrace is like small chops at a party—it’s always present. A housewarming isn’t just about showing off your new place; it’s a public declaration that you’ve arrived.
Think live bands, velvet-draped chairs, and small chops plated with military precision. Because if you don’t, Auntie Bose will tell the WhatsApp family group, “Ah, is that how they’re living now?” The horror!
2. Pepper Dem Culture: Flex or Faint
Nigerians live by an unspoken creed: “If you’re not flexing, are you even existing?” From village square weddings with chandeliers to SUVs emblazoned with “#SoftLife,” we revel in over-the-top statements.
When your neighbor throws a naming ceremony with a DJ, you counter with a saxophonist—because subtlety is for amateurs.

3. Overcompensation Nation
Centuries of struggle—from colonialism to bad governance to NEPA—have taught Nigerians one thing: joy must be seized. Why settle for moderation when you can have a yacht party in a traffic jam? Celebrations here are therapy, resilience, and revenge all rolled into one. Finally bought a car? Great. Now drape it in ribbons so bright they could guide lost airplanes.
4. The “Who Did It Better” Olympics

Competitiveness runs deep. Did your coworker’s wedding have a chocolate fountain? Yours will have a dessert waterfall. Ice sculptures? Try snow machines in Lagos heat. Nigerians don’t just go big—we go bigger, louder, and borderline ridiculous. It’s not just about standing out; it’s about ensuring no one outshines you.
5. TikTok and Trend Pressure
Social media is a stage, and Nigerians are the headliners. Why have a simple bridal shower when you can throw a “Dubai Dreams” bash complete with imported camels? Platforms like Instagram fuel this need to outdo and out-glam. If it’s not “content-worthy,” it’s not worth doing.
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6. Storytelling, Drama, and Legacy
Every Nigerian gathering is a future anecdote waiting to happen. We’re obsessed with creating memorable moments—the kind your cousin will recount for years. If no one’s talking about your party’s chaos—like Uncle Tunde’s epic dance battle—then did it even happen?
7. Village People Insurance
Finally, there’s the spiritual aspect. Extravagance is seen as armor against bad vibes. No small chops at your event? Clearly, “village people” are at work. Lavish displays are less about impressing guests and more about warding off imaginary frenemies.
Why Do Nigerians Default to Doing the Most?
Because life here demands it. In a world where tomorrow’s generator might not come on, we live for the moments we can control. Call it cultural DNA, call it a defense mechanism—either way, Nigerians have turned “extra” into an art form. So next time you see a wedding with a cake that requires scaffolding, remember: it’s not “too much.” It’s just Nigerian.
Got a story of someone doing the absolute most? Share below. Let’s keep the competition alive—because here, extra is just the starting point.
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