Money Matters in 2024

A personal financial review

Praise Adeola
5 min readDec 31, 2024

Kindly note that the figures quoted in this review are slightly different than mentioned. This was done for financial privacy and protection.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

I genuinely look forward to sharing my money journey. For some, it inspires them to manage their finances better. For others, it sparks the courage to cut unnecessary costs. And for a few, it encourages them to dare bigger dreams.

This year, 2024, felt like it could go either way — I was at risk of being broke or struggling financially. The second quarter was particularly challenging. I had just quit my job, and my businesses weren’t generating enough cash flow to cover my needs. All this happened against skyrocketing inflation — global, yes, but Nigeria’s inflationary pressures were on another level. It’s still intense, but my mindset has shifted. I’ve learned to operate from the “economy of heaven,” and that perspective has changed everything for me financially.

By mid-year, things began to turn around dramatically. It was as if God opened the floodgates of blessing just for me. My businesses started making impressive profits, and honestly, I was shocked.

Before diving into the detailed breakdown, check out last year’s highlights.

Earnings

About 80% of my income came from a mix of sources: my monthly salary, two businesses, and gifts. On average, I earned N200,000 per month, totalling approximately N2.4 million annually after deductions. The figure fluctuated — some months were higher, others lower — but this average gives a good picture.

While it’s not a massive figure, it’s a significant improvement from last year, especially considering that I didn’t have a traditional 9-to-5 for most of the year. By the last quarter, I landed a flexible job, and I couldn’t be prouder of my progress (allow me to toot my own horn!).

1. Businesses

Let’s break down my entrepreneurial ventures:

I. In His Light Prints and Publishing

Last year, I started a customized clothing brand, funding it by setting aside 50% of my salary for four months. This year, the business exceeded all my expectations. I was mass-producing for corporate brands and institutions — it was mind-blowing.

Last year, I couldn’t afford to pay myself, but this year I managed to take 5% of the business’s earnings as a salary. To earn more, I knew I had to double my efforts, which I did. Another big win? The business now operates independently without needing funds from my salary. That was a huge milestone for me.

By the end of the year, this business brought in around N1,000,000. However, if I dedicate more time and energy to it, it still has untapped potential.

II. Digital Finance Hub

My second venture is Digital Finance Hub, where I work as a lead financial consultant. My role involves helping professionals and businesses structure their income and finances. Beyond the money, it’s deeply fulfilling to see clients achieve financial growth and understand where their money is going.

This job requires me to create digital assets, including personal finance courses, investment training, and consulting services. Although I spent significant time this year building my financial knowledge base and educational resources, I still surpassed my income goals, earning around N200,000.

2. Speaking engagements

Thanks to God and my consistent social media presence, I took on more speaking engagements this year than last year. While most were unpaid, the paid ones brought in approximately N180,000. I turned down a few opportunities, and some were postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, it was an honour to share my knowledge, and I look forward to doing even more next year.

3. Gifts

This year, I experienced supernatural blessings. Friends, supporters, and even people on social media sent me gifts, often in dollars, to encourage my work and support the book I’m currently writing. In total, I received about $50 (roughly N80,000). I’m overwhelmed by the love and support and pray to continue being a blessing to others.

4. Investment returns

Some of my financial investments grew by over 200% this year. While this didn’t translate to immediate cash in my account, it significantly appreciated my capital. A few of my shares experienced substantial growth, leading to excellent dividend payouts and capital gains. This “invested life” is one I love and intend to nurture further.

Expenses

Talking about income is exciting, but we can’t ignore the bills. If you’re Nigerian, you already know — expenses can wipe out your earnings in seconds. Thankfully, with God’s help and solid financial management skills, I managed to stay afloat despite the inflation.

1. Food

Food was the Achilles’ heel of my budget. I spent an average of N100,000 monthly. Living with my parents helped reduce costs; otherwise, it would have been higher. Also, I didn’t cook much this year because I lived a fasting lifestyle for most of it. Bonus? It helped me achieve my desired weight!

2. Tithe & Offering

This is a category I’m increasingly proud of. I give at least 12% of my total income to God, including tithes from my businesses. It’s not an “expense” per se — it’s God’s money

3. Giving and generosity

Despite the rocky start to the year, I gave generously to programs, orphanages, and foundations, and even paid school fees for others. I didn’t keep strict records, but I estimate my giving exceeded N200,000. I don’t regret a single dime.

4. Weddings

Several friends got married this year. While I couldn’t attend all the ceremonies due to distance or cost, I still sent monetary gifts. These expenses added up to around N50,000, which feels fair compared to attending just one wedding.

Other expenses

  • Airtime and Data: Over N60,000 (still modest compared to what some people spend).
  • Transportation: Approximately N100,000, thanks to working from home most of the time.

Other minor expenses were negligible in comparison.

Looking back, 2024 was a good year for me financially. It wasn’t without challenges, but I learned, grew, and saw God’s hand in my finances.

I hope my money summary inspires you as you plan your finances for the coming year. Remember, no matter how tight things get, with intentionality and faith, you can rise above any challenge.

Here’s to a financially fulfilling 2025!

Since you enjoyed reading this, you will love this:

However, no accounting shall be required of them for the money placed in their hands, because they act faithfully.” — 2 Kings 22:7 (AMP)

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Praise Adeola
Praise Adeola

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