If you accept the first price a market seller gives you when you go shopping, pin this article to your home screen. Unless you and I are not living in the same economic crisis sha. The seven tricks will not just help you spend less money, they will save your life.
1. Pretend to walk away
Nigerian mums are experts at doing this and it works almost every time. The trick is to pretend like you really want it, but you can’t afford it. Walk away slowly after arguing back and forth. It will work with one seller, eventually.
2. Divide the original price by 2
Never, ever accept the first price, no matter how good it seems. Haggling can be stressful, but at least you’ll be saving money. If they tell you something is 3000, tell them you have 1000 naira. They may insult your ancestors, but at least you’ll get a good deal.
3. Dress down
Be as comfortable as possible, but don’t look too fancy. Shopkeepers increase prices based on your dressing. If you look like money, you’ll spend that money they think you have.
4. Carry reusable bags
All those nylons you have been stuffing into one big bag are supposed to be reused. Instead of buying a new one in the market every time, have a stash of reusable bags. Reach into your inner Nigerian mum and save the environment while at it.
5. Address every seller “Mummy” or “Daddy”
They are less likely to cheat you if they think you’re respectful. Only use this when the person is much older than you, and know when to stop.
6. Practice your poker face
Never let your excitement show. The moment you seem happy about the price or product, you have immediately increased the value and you will end up spending more. Practice your poker face before you leave your house or hide it behind your nose mask.
7. Speak Pidgin
Whatever accent you copied, paid for, or borrowed, drop it at the bus stop of the market. Speaking pidgin will help you sweet-talk your way out of buying two pieces of plantain for 700 naira.
