How To Content

Your credit score affects your ability to get loans, rent an apartment, or even land a job. The good news? You can improve it — and it starts with simple, consistent habits.

• Pay your bills on time – every time. Payment history is the #1 factor in your score. Even one missed payment can hurt.
• Reduce your debt – especially on credit cards. Lenders like to see that you’re not using your full credit limit.
• Check your credit report regularly. Errors happen – wrong balances, late payments you didn’t make, or even accounts that aren’t yours.
• Keep old accounts open. Length of credit history matters. Closing old cards can actually lower your score.
• Limit new credit applications. Each time you apply, it creates a “hard inquiry.” Too many in a short time = red flag.
• Use credit, but wisely. A low balance paid off monthly shows lenders you’re in control.

A good credit score is built step by step. Pay on time, keep balances low, check your report — and lenders will start to trust you more.

Life is unpredictable — job loss, medical bills, or phone repairs can hit when you least expect. That’s why an emergency fund is a must-have, not a nice-to-have.

• Start small and stay consistent. Even ₦500 or ₦1,000 weekly adds up over time. Don’t wait for “extra” money — begin with what you have.
• Automate your savings. Set up an automatic transfer from your main account to your savings every payday. Out of sight, out of spend.
• Cut unnecessary expenses. Daily soda? Impulse snacks? They add up fast. Redirect that money to your emergency stash.
• Sell unused items. Old clothes, gadgets, or furniture can be turned into quick cash — and straight into your fund.
• Set a clear goal. Aim for 1–3 months of essential expenses. Knowing your target keeps you motivated.
• Use a separate account. Avoid temptation by keeping your emergency money in a different bank or app.

An emergency fund gives you peace of mind and freedom. Start today – your future self will thank you when life throws the next surprise.

Budgeting doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits, you can control your money — instead of letting it control you.

• Write down all income and expenses — yes, even daily snacks and airtime.
• Prioritize essentials: food, rent, transport — needs before wants.
• Calculate total spending — and look for areas to cut.
• Cancel or reduce non-essentials: unused subscriptions, impulse buys.
• Set a spending limit for each category — and track it weekly.
• Stick to your plan — like a diet, it only works if you follow it.

Budgeting is just planning ahead. Start small, stay consistent, and you’ll feel more in control with every step.

Saving on a small income may feel impossible — but it’s not. The key isn’t how much you earn, but what you do with it. Small steps, taken consistently, make a big difference over time.

• Track every naira. If your money disappears without explanation, it’s time to write it down. Use a notebook or app to log all spending — even snacks and airtime.
• Cut what doesn’t matter. Unused subscriptions, “VIP” ringtones, constant takeout — these are small leaks draining your budget. Keep what you use; cancel the rest.
• Use separate savings. Move saved money to a different account or mobile wallet. If it stays with your spending cash, it’ll disappear too.
• Give your savings a name. Saving “for nothing” is hard. But saving “for rent,” “for emergencies,” or “for school” gives purpose — and motivation.
• Limit cash on hand. Carry only what you need daily. The less you have in your pocket, the less you’ll spend impulsively.
• Try saving through apps or auto-transfers. Set automatic weekly savings, even if small. If you don’t see it, you won’t spend it.

You don’t need a big salary to build discipline. Save a little, save often — and you’ll build a habit that lasts, no matter your income.