HUSTLE DIARIES: “My Abroad Uncle Is Always Getting Back To Me”

Name: Toye Age: 21 School: Lagos State University Course: Sociology (200 Level) Hustle: None

INTRODUCTION:

Every Nigerian student seems to have that one person they believe will always come through during hard times. Sometimes it’s an older sibling, a cousin, or in Toye’s case, an “abroad uncle” who always says, “Reach out anytime.”

But adulthood slowly teaches you that even the people who mean well may not always be available when life happens.

This week, we spoke with Toye, a 21-year-old Sociology student at Lagos State University, about student life, depending on people, and discovering that earning a little extra might not have to completely disrupt your schedule.

You mentioned that your abroad uncle is always “getting back to you.” What do you mean by that?

(Laughs) You know how we all have that one uncle that tells you, “Anything you need, just call me”? Then when you finally call, they’re either in a meeting, busy, or say they’ll call you back later.

The funny thing is, even when the signs are very clear, I still hold on to that little hope that maybe this time he’ll pick up and say, “Hello Toye, don’t worry, I’ve got you.”

Why do you still keep calling him if you already feel this way?

Haha, fair question.

Growing up, Uncle Tunji was my favorite uncle. No matter how little he had, he always showed up for me. He was genuinely my guy.

I think I just grew up believing he would always be that one person I could run to outside my parents. But adulthood is teaching me that things change and people have different responsibilities now.

What kind of things do you usually need help with?

Honestly, I’m a student. There’s always something.

Sometimes it’s printing assignments, handouts, transport, food, data… anything at all can really help when you don’t have a side hustle.

People underestimate how quickly small expenses add up for students.

Hmm… what if I told you Uncle Tunji doesn’t have to be the only safety net during hard times?

Really? (Laughs) If you genuinely have an answer for that, I’m listening.

But remember, I’m still a student and school is already a full-time responsibility.

That’s actually the point. With TreeKle, you don’t need to completely rearrange your schedule to earn more.

All you need to do is download the TreeKle app and sign up.

You can earn simply from your regular airtime and data purchases.

Is that something you already spend money on regularly?

Of course. I buy airtime and data almost all the time, mostly from my bank app. Sometimes I even buy for my friends too.

If this really works the way you’re saying, that’s actually amazing.

What would you do if earning from your everyday top-ups was really this simple?

Honestly? I’d be shocked. (Laughs)

And I definitely wouldn’t keep it to myself. I’d share it with my friends and family immediately.

Do you relate to Toye’s story, or are you hustling your way through school? Share your Hustle Diaries with us! Let’s talk about the different ways Nigerian students navigate school and survival. 🔥