Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
LAGOS, Nigeria — In the bustling streets of Lagos, the story of 22-year-old Temitope sheds light on a growing, little-discussed phenomenon: the “asawo” culture. Far from the stereotypes often portrayed in tabloids, this culture represents a complex, hidden economy where relationships, money, and survival intersect.
“I didn’t choose this life for fun,” Temitope confides. “It started because I had tuition to pay, rent to cover, and dreams that needed funding. I had to find a way to survive and thrive at the same time.”
Temitope’s experience reflects a wider trend among Nigeria’s youth. With unemployment and underemployment at alarming rates, some young women are turning to transactional relationships—exchanging companionship, time, or intimacy for financial support, gifts, or career mentorship. In effect, it’s a modern survival strategy disguised as romance.
Experts note that this “hidden economy” is more than just a social phenomenon—it’s a reflection of Nigeria’s economic realities. “It’s important to understand the structural forces at play,” says Dr. Oluchi Eze, a sociologist at the University of Lagos. “These women are navigating a tough economic landscape, often turning transactional relationships into opportunities for independence and empowerment.”
But the culture is not without challenges. Temitope explains, “You have to be smart. You vet people, set boundaries, and sometimes negotiate terms like a business deal. It’s empowering in one sense, but risky in another. Not every arrangement ends well.”
For many, these relationships provide temporary financial relief, but they also raise questions about ethics, social norms, and emotional well-being. Critics argue that the culture reinforces exploitation, while others see it as a reflection of women’s resilience in navigating a system stacked against them.
Interestingly, social media has amplified the phenomenon. Platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp have become informal marketplaces, connecting individuals seeking mutually beneficial arrangements. It’s a mix of survival, networking, and modern romance.
Temitope remains pragmatic: “I’m learning life skills—negotiation, financial management, personal safety. Sure, it’s unconventional, but it’s teaching me to be independent and strategic.”
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges, the “asawo” culture reminds society that modern relationships are increasingly shaped by practical realities. It’s a lesson in resilience, adaptability, and the often-overlooked ways young people survive—and sometimes thrive—in the fast-paced urban jungle.
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