Eid is one of the most beautiful seasons for Muslims in Nigeria — the smell of fried meat, the joy of gathering with loved ones, the fresh outfits, the generosity. But let’s be real…

Eid can finish your money.

Whether you earn ₦50k or ₦500k a month, it’s easy to overspend on things that feel necessary at the moment — but end up stressing you later.
So here’s how to enjoy Sallah fully while still being money-wise.

1. Create a Realistic Eid Budget — and Follow It

Make a list of what you must spend on this Eid:

• Foodstuff (rice, tomatoes, oil, spices, soft drinks)
• Ram or goat (or chicken, we won’t judge)
• New clothes (if needed)
• Transport for visits
• Giving (zakat, relatives, beggars)
• Data for uploads (yes, Instagram must see your drip)

2. Team Up for Animal Purchase – You Don’t Have to Buy It Alone

Rams are expensive — especially close to Eid. Instead of buying a whole animal by yourself, partner with your siblings or neighbours.

Buy one goat, split it three ways.
You’ll still have peppered meat to eat, still fulfil your Sallah spirit — without bleeding your wallet.

Pro Tip: If buying live animals, check before the prices spike. Or visit local abattoirs early in the morning for deals.

3. Restyle Your Old Outfits — No One Will Know, Trust Us

Let’s talk fashion pressure. Every Sallah, Instagram and TikTok are full of new kaftans, agbadas, abayas, gele, and sneakers.

But truth is — you can look fresh without buying new.

• Reuse a previous outfit and restyle it.
• Sew with affordable but nice fabric (ankara is still gold).
• Add a new cap, scarf, or accessory.
• If you must slay, sew early to avoid “tailor has not delivered” heartbreak and emergency spending.

4. Plan Meals, Share Responsibilities

Food is one of the biggest Eid expenses — especially when guests are expected.

But instead of cooking 7 different dishes to “impress”, stick to the essentials:

• Jollof or fried rice
• Swallow and soup
• Protein (peppered meat, grilled chicken, fish)

Cook in bulk with your siblings or relatives and buy ingredients from wholesale markets
Better yet — if you know you can’t handle guests this year, celebrate quietly. Eid is still valid even if you don’t feed the entire street.

5. Manage Movement – Transport Can Eat Your Pocket

If you’re visiting friends, family or even travelling out of town:

• Book early. Transport fares may double due to a surge.
• Use public transport or ride-share

And if people are coming to visit you — give directions well so they don’t call you 10 times and finish your airtime

6. Set a Gift Limit – Generosity is Not About Amount

Giving is part of Eid — but don’t feel bad if you can’t give everyone ₦5k each.

• Give what you can, not what people expect.
• Small envelopes of ₦200–₦500 for kids go a long way.
• Buy snacks, drinks, or even offer prayers for those you can’t support financially.

Your intention matters more than the amount.

BONUS TIP: Start Saving Early for the Next Eid

Sallah happens twice a year. Why wait till the last minute?
Start dropping ₦10,000 into your GTI Target Savings Account and earn up to 14% p.a.

By the time the next Eid arrives, you’ll already have enough for meat, foodstuffs, and perhaps a new outfit, with no pressure.

For more money tips, speak with a wealth advisor. Call: +2349126694417 Email: gtiamt@gti.com.ng