The Struggles of Shopping in a Nigerian Market.

posted on Sep 17, 2024 |   992 likes

There is no struggle for shopping in a Nigerian Market, if you have all the list you want to buy and stick to them.

The Struggles of Shopping in a Nigerian Market.

 There is no struggle for shopping in a Nigerian Market, if you have all the list you want to buy and stick to them.

Oya Lets Price!

Ah, the Nigerian market, a place where you can find everything from fresh vegetables to the latest Ankara prints, and where the art of haggling is as essential as the items on your shopping list. Shopping in a Nigerian market isn’t just a chore; it’s an experience, a test of patience, and a masterclass in negotiation. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned shopper, the chaos of the market will make you!  A little skill and a lot of confidence, you can go through from Balogun Market, Trade fair to Aba Market like a true pro and walk away with the best deals.

Step 1: Come Prepared- WETIN YOU WAN BUY!

Before you even step foot in the market, have a clear idea of what you’re there to buy. Nigerian markets are designed to distract you with their endless array of goods. You might go in for tomatoes and come out with a new set of curtains, a bag of chin chin, and no tomatoes. Stay focused, my friend!

Pro Tip: Write down your shopping list and stick to it like your life depends on it. This will help you avoid getting sidetracked by the countless "Madam, come and buy!" calls.

Step 2: Dress the Part – Psychology Of Market Place

When heading to the market, dress down. If you show up looking too flashy, the prices might mysteriously inflate. Market traders are pros at judging a customer’s wallet by their appearance. The more unassuming you look, the better your chances of getting a fair price. “Madam You Look so fine”

Pro Tip:  Leave the designer bags and expensive shoes at home, LEAVE IT!  A simple outfit and a practical crossbody bag (to keep your hands free for haggling) are all you need.

Step 3: The Art of Greeting – Start with a Smile

In Nigeria, a little bit of politeness goes a long way, especially in the market. Start every interaction with a warm greeting—"Good morning, Mama!" or "How far, Bros?" This simple gesture builds rapport and sets a friendly tone for the negotiation ahead.

Pro Tip: Compliment the seller’s stall or merchandise. A little flattery can soften them up and make them more willing to offer a discount.

Step 4: The Opening Offer_ Last Price!

Now comes the fun part: haggling. When the seller gives you a price, your first instinct might be to gasp dramatically and say, "Ah ah, why so expensive?" But instead, stay cool and counter with an offer that’s significantly lower—but not insulting. The key is to start low enough to give yourself room to negotiate up to a fair price.

Pro Tip: If the seller says ₦2,000, start your offer at ₦1,000 or ₦1,200. This leaves you plenty of room to meet somewhere in the middle. Nigerian Parents Left the group chat.

Step 5: The Fake Walkaway – Your Secret Weapon

If the seller isn’t budging on the price, it’s time to pull out the big guns: the fake walkaway. Pretend you’re no longer interested and start to leave the stall. Nine times out of ten, the seller will call you back with a better offer. This tactic works like magic, but you’ve got to commit to the act. (They might not call you back, but maintain your steeze)

Pro Tip: Don’t walk too fast or too slow. Just give them enough time to think about losing the sale. If they don’t call you back, no worries—just try the next stall!

Step 6: Know When to Stop – Don’t Overdo It

While haggling is expected, there’s a limit. If the seller has dropped the price significantly, and you’re getting a good deal, don’t push your luck. Accept the offer with a smile and seal the deal. After all, everyone’s got to make a living.

Pro Tip: Don’t haggle over every item. Sometimes, it’s better to pay a fair price and keep the goodwill for your next visit.

Step 7: Cash Is King – Your Advantage!

In most Nigerian markets, cash is still the preferred method of payment and also a way to lure them to stick to your price.  Make sure you have enough cash on hand, and more importantly, carry small bills. This way, you won’t have to deal with the classic “Sorry, I don’t have change” excuse, which often leads to losing the discount you worked so hard for.

Pro Tip: Break larger bills into smaller denominations before you enter the market. This gives you more control during negotiations.

Conclusion: You Don Try, Buy Small chops!

Shopping in a Nigerian market is like stepping into a battlefield, but with the right strategies, you can emerge victorious. From knowing when to haggle to mastering the fake walkaway, these tips will help you navigate the chaos with confidence. And remember, the market isn’t just a place to buy goods—it’s where you can connect with people, hear the latest gist, and maybe even make a new friend or two.

So the next time you head to the market, channel your inner haggling pro and enjoy the thrill of getting the best deals, Naija style!