As inflation continues to erode household incomes, the demand for second-hand clothing, popularly known as thrift or “okrika,” has surged across Nigeria, with sellers and buyers describing it as both a necessity and a thriving business opportunity.
In Abuja, traders explained that the rising cost of new clothing has made fairly used items an attractive option for students, workers, and families seeking budget-friendly alternatives. While both thrift and okrika refer to imported second-hand clothing, bags, and shoes—mostly from the UK and US—they differ in presentation, pricing, and target customers.
A vendor in Bwari explained that thrift items are often newer, sometimes with original tags, and are sorted and styled for resale. These pieces, which may include designer brands, are popular online through Instagram and WhatsApp sales, targeting young professionals and fashion-conscious buyers. “Thrift sells faster online because of its originality and style. Prices are higher than regular second-hand items but still cheaper than brand-new clothes,” she said.
In contrast, okrika remains dominant in physical markets and roadside stalls, offering bulk and affordable options to middle- and low-income earners. A trader in Bwari market noted that daily patronage is strong, especially when new bales are opened. While okrika is cheaper and sells faster in volume, thrift often yields higher profit margins per piece.
For buyers, preferences vary. Some, like students, said they prefer okrika for its affordability despite the stress of selecting items from bales, while corporate workers lean towards thrift for its convenience and unique fashion appeal. “With N1,000, I can pick several good items from an okrika bale, compared to buying just one thrift piece for N3,500,” a student said. Others described thrift as a practical way to access high-quality, vintage styles at a fraction of the cost of new clothes.
Parents also highlighted okrika as a cost-effective solution for children’s clothing, shoes, and school bags, given how quickly kids outgrow items. Beyond affordability, some buyers expressed loyalty to local vendors, seeing their patronage as a way to support small businesses and sustain livelihoods.
Sellers agreed that both thrift and okrika play complementary roles in Nigeria’s fashion economy. While thrift appeals to style-conscious buyers online, okrika continues to dominate in physical markets, attracting bulk buyers and families. Together, they not only provide affordable fashion but also sustain jobs for traders, many of whom are youths using online platforms to grow their businesses.
