The Real MVPs of Nigerian Homes – The People Who Keep Us Sane in 2025!

In every Nigerian home, there are certain individuals who hold everything together. They may not always get the credit they deserve, but let’s be honest: life in Nigeria would be chaos without them. From the person who makes sure we’re well-fed, to the one who always has the right advice, or the one who keeps the vibe alive, these unsung heroes deserve a special shout-out.

1. Everyone’s Mummy (The “Food Savior”)

If there’s one thing that can unite every Nigerian household, it’s food. And no one does it better than everyone’s mummy. The person might not necessarily be the literal mum of the house, but that’s one person who knows how to whip up mouth-watering dishes with the finesse of a seasoned chef. Whether it’s Jollof rice that can rival the best party rice, or pounded yam with vegetable soup, this person makes sure that no one ever goes hungry. They’re the one we turn to for comfort food, and let’s face it, their food is the secret to keeping the family happy.

Pro Tip: If you’ve ever tasted fried meat while food is not ready, you know this MVP has special powers.

2. The Aunty with the Solution (The “Fixer”)

This is the family member everyone runs to when they need answers. From finding a job to solving relationship issues or figuring out how to fix your bank account after things happen, this aunty has a solution for everything. Her wisdom knows no bounds. She is not only an advice-giver but also a problem-solver, whether it’s giving financial tips or knowing exactly what to do during a family emergency. When it comes to handling life’s challenges, this aunty is your go-to guru.

Pro Tip: She’s also the person who always wants to be in your face when you are down

3. The Agbaya (The “Family Philosopher”)

Every Nigerian home has that one elder who seems to have a never-ending store of stories and wisdom. Whether it’s recounting tales of "how things used to be," reminding you of how they walked 10 miles to school barefoot, or just telling you to “take life easy,” the Agbaya is a key figure in any household. They remind you of what matters in life: family, respect, and always having a good laugh. They even go as far as reminding you of your petty and silly acts as a child.

Pro Tip: Their stories might seem long, but they’re usually filled with valuable lessons (and they’re often hilarious).

4. The Uncle Who Knows Everyone (The “Social Connector”)

There’s always that one uncle who knows EVERYONE and has connections like no other. Whether it’s getting you that internship at the best company, hooking you up with tickets to the latest concert, or giving you the "inside scoop" on local events, this uncle is the ultimate plug. He’s always in the know and has a way of making things happen. He’s the one who makes sure that the family stays on top of everything and never misses out on a good opportunity. Sometimes, they also make endless promises, fulfiling none.

Pro Tip: Always ask him for advice before attending an event—he’s probably already in touch with the organiser.

5. The Sibling Who Keeps You Sane (The “Therapist”)

Let’s be honest, sometimes the family drama can get a little too much. But then there’s always that one sibling who manages to keep things in perspective. They remind you to breathe, crack jokes to lighten the mood, or being the voice of reason during a heated argument. This sibling is the calm in the storm. They might not have a professional degree, but their advice is always spot-on, and they know how to help you see things clearly.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, text them for a quick vent session. They’ve got the best advice (and the best memes).

6. The House Help Who Feels Like Family (The “Nanny Extraordinaire”)

In many Nigerian homes, there’s that one person who’s been around for years and feels like a second mother. They’re not just helping with house chores; they’re the ones who know all the family secrets, from the best way to make stew to how to get the kids to stop fighting over the remote. They’ve been with the family through thick and thin, and their role goes beyond just being a caretaker, they're family, period.

Pro Tip: Never underestimate how well they know the family—after all, they’ve been with you through it all.

Read also: The Truth about a Familiar Stranger

Conclusion:

At the end of the day, Nigerian families are built on love, laughter, and the undeniable strength of these MVPs. So next time you’re gathered around the table, don’t forget to give a shout-out to the people who make everything run smoothly, even if it’s just by telling them how much you appreciate them.