We all manage money differently, but no matter the budget, there’s always something to splurge on after payday.
Managing money is personal. Some people track every naira, others take a more relaxed approach. However, what unites us all is the dance between saving wisely and enjoying the fruits of our labour. To show just how different (and relatable) money habits can be, we spoke with 10 Nigerian women about their budgeting habits, biggest challenges, and the one thing they always splurge on after payday.
Sade (Editor, ₦500,000)
Sade takes a relaxed approach to budgeting. “I go with the flow, but I make sure to save at least 30% of my paycheck.” She also admits that food takes a chunk of her income: “I’m just always snacking and eating out!”
After payday, she loves to treat herself to clothes and skincare. “Right now, I’m loving The Keeper of the Wardrobe for fashion, and I stock up on soothing face masks from Beauty Hut Africa.”
Lola (Artist, ₦1m–₦1.5m)
“I save at least 10% immediately whenever any income hits my account,” Lola explains. “I also set a weekly auto-save on Piggyvest.” Shopping for fashion items might tempt her, but she makes space for joy. “Date night with my husband is a must. I also reward myself with shopping within a set limit.” If extra money came in? “Half would go into savings, half for spending.”
Tamara (Graphic Designer, ₦700k–₦900k)
“I live by a spreadsheet,” Tamara admits. “Every naira is tracked. I also invest and budget for online courses to improve my skills.” As for what makes her slip up , she confesses, “Food delivery apps, they get me every time.”
Her payday indulgence is tech-related. “I splurge on gadgets and art supplies. If I got extra money, I’d split it between savings and finally getting a new tablet.”
Ify (Copy Editor, ₦150k–₦200k)
Some months, Ify budgets carefully; other months, she lets things slide. “The economy feels really harsh right now, so I’ve been more lenient with my spending.” Staying indoors helps her save, but ordering food and buying clothes quickly throws her off. “After payday, I love treating myself to jewellery, earrings and necklaces especially.”
Read also: Nigerian women share their struggles on surviving the economic crisis
Chioma (Lawyer, ₦2m–₦2.5m)
Chioma blends structure with flexibility. “I always max out my savings and investments first, then spend freely.” Travel is her guilty pleasure. “Payday means I can book a flight or plan a quick weekend getaway.
Experiences mean the most to me.” With an extra paycheck? “I’d put half into my emergency fund and use the other half for my next trip.”
Zainab (HR Associate, ₦200k–₦300k)
Zainab keeps things simple. “I save first, then spend what’s left. Using envelopes for different expenses keeps me disciplined.” Weddings and social events usually pull her off track. “After payday, I love to reward myself with perfume. Scents make me feel powerful.” An extra paycheck? “Straight into a mutual fund.”
Chinenye (Writer, ₦400k–₦500k)
Chinenye is strict with her essentials. “I tithe, save, and invest first, then I go with the flow.” Family obligations sometimes stretch her budget. “Black tax is real, but honestly, people like giving me money and I’m not sure why!”
Her indulgence is non-negotiable. “I buy at least one pretty dress every month. If I suddenly had an extra paycheck, I’d buy another dress I’ve had my eyes on.”
Nefertiti (Creative Marketing Strategist, ₦1.5m–₦2m)
“Money is incredibly fluid to me,” Nefertiti says. “I always have money, so I never need to budget.” Her perspective keeps her grounded. “I see money as a tool. If you obsess over it, it slips away. Once I changed my mindset, I always had more than enough.”
She doesn’t think much about splurges. “If I want something, I buy it without hesitating.” She also reveals that, “With extra money, I’d do a little bit of both — save and splurge.”
Amaka (Editor, ₦500k–₦1m)
“I stick to a strict budget,” Amaka says, “but I’ll be honest, I haven’t saved in a while.” Junk is usually her undoing: suya, small chops, and wings call her name.
Still, she tries to find balance. “If I got an extra paycheck, I’d save a little and spend a little.”
Adaeze (Social Editor, ₦300k–₦400k)
“I’d say I commit to some concepts of a budget” Adaeze laughs. She tries to manage by splitting her money into two accounts and setting weekly limits. “If I spend it all too soon, I just sulk at home and wait until the following week.”
Her budget usually slips on outings. “I love being outside.” After payday, she splurges on wigs from The Hair Caterers or indulges in really good ice cream. “If I had an extra paycheck, though, I’d save because it’s rent season.”
From perfumes and jewellery to gadgets and travel, these women prove there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to spending money. Whether they save first or spend freely, the key is balance. That means managing their finances while still enjoying the little luxuries that make payday worth celebrating.
Now it’s your turn. How do you make your paycheck work for you, and what’s that one thing you always splurge on after payday? You might just inspire someone else’s next smart move (or well-earned treat).
Read more: 7 expert budgeting tips to have more money left at the end of the month
