Nigerian content creator Samuel Adegbeyi, popularly known as Baami, has opened up about how a N30,000 loan taken to support his then-girlfriend's business spiraled into a N300,000 debt, wreaking havoc on his finances, mental health, and academic plans.
The Loan That Started It All
In a candid interview with The PUNCH Newspaper, Baami revealed that he borrowed approximately N30,000 from a digital loan app and combined it with his personal savings to help his girlfriend launch a business. His motivation, he said, was simple: "I genuinely loved her and wanted to support her."
However, shortly after she received the funds, her attitude towards him changed dramatically, leaving him feeling used and betrayed.
From N30,000 to N300,000: The Debt Spiral
The loan came with a short repayment window, and when Baami missed the deadline, the interest compounded at an alarming rate. "Eventually, a loan of about N30,000 grew to more than N300,000," he disclosed.
Desperate to clear the initial debt, Baami began taking out new loans from other apps, which only deepened his financial woes. He fell into a vicious cycle of borrowing to repay, a situation that quickly became unmanageable.
Four Months of Paralysis
The financial strain took a severe toll on Baami's mental and physical health. "For almost a year, I struggled financially and emotionally. There was a period of about four months when I could barely function. I stayed indoors most of the time," he said.
During this low point, a friend he was living with stepped in to support him, even preparing meals for him. Baami admitted there were mornings when he ate leftover food from the night before because he lacked the energy and means to care for himself.
Academic Plans Derailed
The crisis also disrupted his education. Baami was unable to return to school as planned because the debt repayments consumed all his focus and resources. The financial burden delayed his academic journey, adding another layer of regret to the ordeal.
Social Media Reactions
Following the interview, social media users flooded the comment sections with mixed reactions. @kingcokes wrote: "Aaah! You get girlfriend? See my life. I swear, I can't look away from this see finish." @min_imoney_ shared: "What's funny tho. Everyone is laughing. If it was the other way tho." @datjoblessboi commented: "No man is above billing! Use the remaining days of this year fear women and the years to come."
Lessons Learned
Baami's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of digital loans and the importance of financial boundaries in relationships. His experience highlights how quickly small debts can escalate when interest rates are not fully understood, and how emotional decisions can lead to long-term consequences.
As Baami continues to recover, his story resonates with many young Nigerians who face similar pressures to support loved ones financially, often at their own expense.
