There is an unspoken currency in society that has existed for as long as beauty has been admired—pretty privilege. It is the idea that those deemed physically attractive are granted advantages in life, whether in careers, relationships or even day-to-day interactions. In Nigeria, where social structures are deeply ingrained, and beauty is often equated with worth, the conversation around pretty privilege remains relevant.
To say that beauty opens doors in Nigeria is an understatement. From job opportunities to social invitations, the advantages of being conventionally attractive are evident. We see it in workplaces where a “fine girl” gets preferential treatment from male bosses or in social settings where an attractive woman might receive a free meal, an Uber ride, or even a surprise credit alert from a generous admirer. It is in the everyday scenarios—how a light-skinned, well-dressed woman is treated differently at a bank compared to someone perceived as less attractive. It is in how customer service is suddenly exceptional when an attractive person steps forward.
Beauty as a currency is particularly visible in the entertainment and media industries. There’s a reason why beauty queens effortlessly transition into Nollywood or why certain influencers, regardless of their talent (or lack thereof), are given lucrative brand deals. In a space where visibility is everything, beauty can fast-track success. Even in corporate Nigeria, there is a silent understanding that looking “put together” can determine how seriously one is taken. As a hiring manager for a Lagos-based company once bluntly admitted, “We don’t want ugly people at the front desk.”
But the real power of pretty privilege is not just in its ability to open doors—it is in how it shapes perception. An attractive person is often assumed to be smarter, more competent, and even more deserving. It is why during elections, we see people commenting on how “fine” a candidate is rather than their policies. It is why a CEO’s looks might be analysedanalysed as much as their business acumen. It is why some women who marry wealthy men are accused of securing their place based on looks alone and why men who are conventionally handsome are given unwarranted credibility.
However, the dynamics of pretty privilege in Nigeria have evolved. While it remains a potent tool, it now competes with other factors like wealth, influence, and digital presence. In the past, being physically attractive was enough to elevate one’s social and economic standing. Today, beauty alone may not be sufficient. Social media has democratised attractiveness—filters, surgery, and makeup have blurred the lines between natural and enhanced beauty. The girl next door can now look like a supermodel with the right editing skills. In a way, beauty is no longer exclusive; it has become accessible, even manufactured.
Additionally, the rise of influencers and digital personalities means that power no longer belongs solely to the traditionally beautiful. Being engaging, funny, or having a compelling personal brand can sometimes overshadow physical beauty. There are many social media figures who do not fit conventional beauty standards but have built empires based on their relatability or charisma. However, even within this space, pretty privilege still lingers—an attractive woman will often get more brand deals, more likes, and more engagement simply by existing.
But what about men? Does pretty privilege apply to them in Nigeria? The answer is layered. While society has historically placed more pressure on women to be beautiful, attractive men do experience advantages. A well-groomed man with striking features is more likely to be taken seriously in high-powered meetings simply because he “looks the part.” However, for men, wealth is often the more defining factor. A man may not be conventionally attractive, but if he is rich, his appeal skyrockets. The same cannot always be said for women, who, despite being wealthy, may still be judged harshly if they do not fit the beauty ideal.
It is also important to acknowledge that pretty privilege can be a double-edged sword. While beauty can open doors, it can also lead to people being underestimated or reduced to just their looks. Many attractive women in professional spaces have to work twice as hard to prove they are more than just a pretty face. It is why actresses, influencers, or even female entrepreneurs often feel the need to emphasise their work ethic, intelligence, and talent—because society tends to assume that their success is solely based on looks.
Pretty privilege does not always guarantee long-term success. Beauty fades, and as it does, the privileges that once came with it may also diminish. This is why many people who have benefited from their looks actively work to establish themselves beyond their physical appeal. Whether through business, media presence, or skill acquisition, they find ways to remain relevant even when their looks are no longer their primary asset.
Pretty privilege still exists in Nigeria. Absolutely, it does. But it has shifted. It is no longer the sole determinant of success; it now works alongside influence, digital savviness, and strategic positioning. Beauty still matters, but it is no longer enough. But let’s not kid ourselves—life is still softer when you are easy on the eyes. Whether it’s getting into an exclusive club without struggling at the door or receiving unnecessary favours from strangers, beauty remains an unspoken currency. And so, for those who have it, enjoy it. For those who don’t, well, there’s always personality, humour, and, most importantly, money. Because as our people say, “When money enters, beauty follows.”
