Everyday Habits That Look Rude To Foreigners But Are Normal to Nigerians

Confidence NwaobiDecember 18, 2025049 views

If you’re visiting Nigeria for the first time, chances are you’ll have at least one moment where you pause and think, “Wait… was that rude?”

And most of the time, the answer is no, not here.

Nigeria is a country where meaning lives in context, tone, and relationship, not always in the exact words or actions. Many everyday habits that feel blunt or uncomfortable to foreigners are actually normal, harmless, and sometimes even polite by Nigerian standards.

This doesn’t mean Nigerians don’t care about manners. They absolutely do. It just means manners are expressed differently.

Let’s talk about some everyday habits that often confuse or shock visitors and why they’re not meant the way they might feel.

Not Saying “Please” and “Thank You” All the Time

This one surprises many visitors.

In Nigeria, respect is shown more through tone, body language, and greetings than through constant polite phrases. Someone might say, “Give me that,” and mean it respectfully, depending on how it’s said.

To a foreigner, that can sound blunt or demanding. But within Nigerian communication, it’s often neutral.

That said, Nigerians do say thank you, especially when something really matters. It’s just not used in every sentence the way it might be elsewhere.

Speaking Loudly in Public

Many visitors mistake volume for anger.

Nigerians often speak loudly, especially in busy environments. Markets, transport hubs, family gatherings, and raised voices are normal and necessary to be heard.

A loud conversation is not an argument. A raised voice does not automatically mean someone is upset. It’s simply expressive communication in a lively environment.

Cutting Into Conversations

For foreigners, such behaviour can be obscene.

In Nigeria, conversations are often energetic and overlapping. People jump in, add comments, interrupt, laugh, and respond quickly. Such conduct isn’t considered disrespectful; it’s engagement.

Silence or waiting too long to speak can sometimes be read as disinterest. If someone cuts in while you’re talking, it usually means they’re involved, not dismissing you.

Calling People by Titles Instead of Names

You may notice people calling strangers “Aunty,” “Uncle,” “Madam,” “Boss,” or “Oga.”

This isn’t sarcasm. It’s respect.

Using titles helps maintain politeness, especially when you don’t know someone’s name. Calling an older person by their first name without a title can actually feel rude in Nigeria.

Not Standing in Perfect Queues

This one frustrates many visitors.

Queuing in Nigeria doesn’t always follow neat lines. People move forward slowly, negotiate space, and sometimes step ahead. To foreigners, it looks like cutting in line.

To Nigerians, it’s just how crowded systems function. It’s not personal, and it’s not usually aggressive. If you stand too far back and remain quiet, you might simply be overlooked.

Direct Comments About Appearance

A Nigerian might say, “You’ve gained weight,” or “You look tired,” without meaning harm.

In many cultures, these comments would be rude. In Nigeria, they’re often observations, not judgements. People usually perceive weight gain as an indicator of a comfortable lifestyle.

Still, times are changing, especially in cities. But first-time visitors should know that such comments are rarely meant to insult.

Declining Invitations Repeatedly

In Nigeria, when someone offers you food or invites you somewhere, they often expect you to refuse at least once.

If you say no immediately, they may insist again. This is not pressure; it’s politeness. It shows generosity and care.

If you genuinely don’t want to accept, a gentle but firm refusal usually works. Nigerians understand boundaries, but they often test politeness first.

Fixing Problems Informally

When we handle issues through conversation instead of strict procedures, visitors sometimes feel uncomfortable.

Someone might say, “Let’s talk about it,” instead of pointing you to a form. This is not necessarily a sign of corruption. It’s a relationship-based approach to problem-solving.

In many everyday situations, talking things through is faster and more effective than rigid systems.

Staring Without Apology

In some places, staring is considered rude. In Nigeria, it’s often curiosity.

People look at what’s new or different. Children stare openly. Adults do too. It’s sometimes impolite by foreign standards, but it’s usually friendly.

A smile often turns a stare into a conversation.

Using Humour in Serious Moments

Visitors are sometimes shocked by jokes during tense situations.

In Nigeria, humour is a coping mechanism. Laughing means the situation is still serious. It means people are trying to lighten emotional weight.

If you hear laughter where you expect frustration, don’t assume disrespect.

Casual Handling of Time

Arriving late to social events is common. It’s not always considered rude.

Life happens. Traffic happens. Family happens. Nigerians understand this, especially outside formal business settings.

For visitors used to strict punctuality, the situation can be irritating. But it’s not meant as disregard.

Talking About Money Openly

Money comes up in conversation more freely than in many cultures.

People may ask how much something costs or openly discuss prices. This isn’t impolite here; it’s practical. Nigerians are used to negotiating and comparing value.

Saying “Sorry” When Nothing Is Wrong

This one confuses foreigners in the opposite direction.

In Nigeria, “sorry” is often used to express sympathy rather than guilt. If you trip, someone says sorry. Someone apologises if you’re ill. They’re not admitting fault.

They’re showing concern.

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Many things that look rude to foreigners in Nigeria are simply cultural differences, not bad manners.

Nigerians are expressive, communal, and relationship-driven. Greetings, tone, generosity, and presence demonstrate respect more than formal etiquette rules.

Once you understand this, interactions feel less confusing and much warmer.

Nigeria may not follow the social scripts you’re used to, but it operates with its own profound logic, one that values connection above formality.

FAQs: Things That Look Rude to Foreigners but Are Normal in Nigeria

Are Nigerians rude to foreigners?

No. Nigerians are generally very welcoming. Cultural differences can cause misunderstandings, but rudeness is rarely intentional.

Should foreigners correct the behaviours they find rude?

Usually, it’s better to observe and adapt. If something truly bothers you, address it politely and calmly.

Is it appropriate to set boundaries?

Yes. Nigerians respect boundaries when communicated clearly and respectfully.

Do these behaviours apply everywhere in Nigeria?

Nigeria is diverse. Big cities may feel different from rural areas, but these patterns are common nationwide.

Will Nigerians be offended if I don’t understand these customs?

Most Nigerians are patient with visitors and happy to explain if asked politely.