Why do we prefer buying new over repairing what we own?
Context
There is a growing trend of replacing gadgets, appliances, and fashion items instead of fixing them when they develop minor faults. Do you think we have lost the culture of 'repair and reuse' in Nigeria due to the pursuit of status, or is it simply because repair services have become too unreliable and expensive? Let's discuss if we should focus more on reviving local craftsmanship and maintenance culture to save costs and reduce waste.
Top answers
Inyang Asuquo
@inyangasuquo655• 0mo ago
It is definitely a mix of both social pressure and the frustration of dealing with unreliable repair services here in Nigeria. While many people use new gadgets or clothing to signal a certain status, it is equally true that finding a skilled technician who won't end up damaging your item further is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive. When a repair cost creeps close to the price of a replacement, the logical choice often leans toward buying new, even though it creates a cycle of waste. Reviving our local maintenance culture is a great idea, but it will only happen if we support and value those skilled artisans who truly know their craft. Shifting our mindset toward repairing would not only save us money in the long run but also help build a more sustainable economy by reducing the clutter of discarded electronics and fast fashion.
Comments
Olubunmi Fashola
@olubunmifashola687• 0mo ago
You hit the nail on the head regarding the skill gap in local repairs. It is so frustrating to pay for a fix only to have the item break down again a week later, which really kills the incentive to repair things. I think we also need to start demanding better repairability from the manufacturers themselves, as so many modern gadgets are designed to be impossible to open without breaking them. Have you found any specific community hubs or reliable repair shops that are actually doing things the right way lately?