As Co-Founder and CEO of Moniepoint, Tosin Eniolorunda has spent years building financial infrastructure for millions of everyday Nigerians—especially those whose livelihoods depend on the informal economy. His work takes him into the heart of communities often overlooked by data and policy, where real economic activity happens quietly but powerfully. Below, he shares one such story: a glimpse into the life and grit of Yietovie, a fish seller in Bayelsa State of Nigeria whose determination reflects the true engine behind Nigeria’s informal sector.
“Lately, I’ve been reflecting a lot on Nigeria’s informal economy, and I keep thinking about Yietovie, someone we met in Bayelsa during our fieldwork. Nigeria produces 1.2 million metric tonnes of fish annually, and she is quietly part of that industry, feeding the nation every single day.
Like many informal business owners, she makes around ₦10,000 daily, but her story is about much more than numbers. Yietovie’s story is about courage and self-determination. She took control of her life, building a livelihood for herself despite the odds.
These are the stories that rarely make headlines. Her resilience is a reminder of the grit, determination, and entrepreneurship that power our informal economy, the backbone of countless communities.
If you haven’t, check out our 2025 Nigeria’s informal economy report for more stories of the people shaping Nigeria’s future, quietly and brilliantly, one day at a time.“