Nigerian media personality, Dayo Adeneye, popularly known as D1, has sparked widespread reactions after reflecting on a time when the Nigerian naira held significantly stronger value against the United States dollar.
D1 made the revelation during an interview with media entrepreneur, Chude Jideonwo, where he shared a personal experience from his early travels abroad. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
According to him, the exchange rate at the time placed the naira far above the dollar, making international travel far more affordable for Nigerians.
“When we left, 80 kobo was one dollar. When I left Nigeria, an uncle of mine gave me ₦500 on my way to the airport. When I got to New York, I changed that ₦500—it was $700,” he said.
His remarks have since gone viral, reigniting conversations about Nigeria’s economic trajectory and the depreciation of the naira over the years.
Many Nigerians took to social media to express nostalgia and frustration, comparing the country’s past economic strength to present realities.
One user, @BL_capitol, commented: “When you travel interstate by road, the abandoned factories and industries show Nigeria was heading somewhere before some leaders derailed it.”
Another user, @fadafigure01, wrote: “Nigeria is the only country where the past is better than the present.”
A third commenter, @bosun_xuser, added humor to the debate, saying: “If things were still like this, everyone would focus on their studies and legitimate professions. $700 is close to a million naira now—this country has really hit rock bottom.”
The conversation highlights growing public concern over the country’s economic challenges and the continued decline in the value of the naira.
D1’s reflection has not only stirred nostalgia but also reignited calls for policies that can restore confidence in Nigeria’s economy.