Everyone has that one proverb that finally made sense when life punched them in the stomach a little. We spoke to four young Nigerians and asked a simple question: what proverb has guided your life?
Their answers are proof that ancestral wisdom still cuts deep in a very Gen-Z world.
“You can’t judge a bad market early in the morning.” – Mmesoma, 28
When she moved to Lagos after school, nothing worked. Job hunting felt pointless and the pandemic made everything worse.
But her mother told her: Ejii ro ututu amanjo afia.
Months later, an internship opened the first door in her career. Patience won where fear almost defeated her.
“All lizards lie flat, but one’s stomach aches.” – Soji, 23
Final year looked perfect from the outside—church, friends, smiles. Inside? Heavy battles he never voiced.
Till he confided in someone older and discovered almost everyone was hiding something too.
This proverb reminds him that no one is without a hidden struggle—no matter how perfect they look.
“Food is King.” – Chiwendu, 21
His own words: “Need I explain? Food is king! Chop life before life chops you.”
No objections.
“Hot water is only felt when touched.” – Bashir, 25
First job, first salary, first reckless spending. His father warned him. He ignored it.
Three months later, he was broke before payday, and his father was right there with the classic “I told you so.”
Only then did the proverb make sense. Sometimes pain is the teacher your ego ignores.
Which of these hit you too?
Share this with someone who needs the reminder today.
