1. The energy and positivism are contagious. The people of Nigeria will leave you inspired and energised. A spirit of hopefulness shows in the market hustle, the skyscrapers blossoming from land-filled areas and the way the people dance to any and everything, any and everywhere! Nigerians live as if tomorrow will be better and never honestly give up. It is a coping mechanism in a country with so much potential but not harnessed enough.
2. Nigeria is safe: As secure as most other countries worldwide. Unfortunately, the occasional kidnap or armed robbery reported in the news comes with the baggage of any vibrant country. In the USA, shootings and bombings are a more regular occurrence than shootings and bombings in Nigeria, but somehow, we still all troop to Miami in May and Florida in February. In Nigeria, a few states in the Northeast have been plagued with terrorist activity, and this is on the decline with top-notch efforts by the Nigerian military to conquer this beast. Nigeria is a large country with 36 states, 350+ ethnic groups, thousands of natural landmarks, Africa’s largest economy, home of Nollywood and Africa’s best musical industry, etc. Foreigners can walk the streets without fear of abduction and with essential travel alertness and safety precautions, you can let down your guard and explore the wonders of the country. Nigeria is as safe as any other country worth its salt.
3. Nigeria is hot: Hot and humid! You’re going to the right place if you’re looking for sunshine because Nigeria is generally warm throughout the year. The weather varies from place to place. For instance, Jos is typically excellent, and Borno is usually hot. But it never snows and is often warm enough for kids to play in the rain. The high humidity also makes it feel much hotter than it is. Many people have air-conditioners in their cars, houses, and offices to avoid the sticky sweatiness of the weather. In Harmattan (the cooler, drier season from late November till February or early March), the temperature drops slightly (especially in the evenings), and the trade winds bring along dryness and dust with them. Always have a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself as much as possible.
4. Everyone speaks English: Many people speak fluent English but speak Pidgin English. Pidgin is a local variant — I would say it is a unique language on its own — that combines local dialects, slang, and some English words. It is no surprise since English is the official language, and most people speak it alongside one or two of 350+ local languages.
5. Nigerians are warm, friendly and loud: If you are lighter skinned or Caucasian, you might hear people call out ‘‘oyinbo” as you walk through the market or down more bustling areas. The term is often used endearingly and should not be considered an insult or rude reference to skin colour. Nigerians are vocal, and in places where people rarely see white people, they may wave or say hello! Personal space is a null concept in the same markets and more bustling areas. Most people get right up to the next person when standing in line or tap the shoulders/hands of strangers to draw their attention. With loud words and dramatic gestures, Nigerians may also seem like they are arguing when describing an event to one another or passionately telling a story.
6. The country is chaotic, But relax; there’s order in the chaos. If Nigeria, you might recognise aspects of the country that remind you of the roughness of Delhi, New York, London, or Rio. In other areas, the roads are untarred, the buildings are simple, and the people lead quiet, agricultural lives. At first glance, there’s no order; for instance, many people have electricity and water supply generators. So, it looks like chaos when you see arbitrary police stops on roads, unclear instructions in government offices, loose security at the Seme border, and unstable electricity. However, there’s a formula to the chaos and with a local to explain a few things, you’ll adapt to the system in no time.
7. Get ready for a meaty, spicy time: In major cities like Lagos and Abuja, you’ll find every kind of food you want in Nigeria — Indian, Japanese, American, French, Chinese — especially Chinese, and even Ethiopian. But what’s the fun in coming to Nigeria without enjoying Nigerian food? Prepare for lots of meats, starches, and spicy food. Almost everything in Nigeria is flavourful and often spicy (hot). However, many places will gladly tame the pepper level of your meal if you give them a heads-up. Nigerian food represents its people with unlimited options and a rich medley of flavours. Only a small number of Nigerians are vegetarian, but many meals on most menus do not contain meat. Tell your host or server beforehand if you have specific food requirements.
8. Give a nod to a Nigerian legend: You will ultimately win over Nigerians’ hearts if you say a word or sentence in a local language or Pidgin English. Nigerians appreciate it when others try to learn their ways. You’ll get even more points if you acknowledge a Nigerian legend: Fela, AgbaniDarego, or Jollof Rice. If you want to take it further, sing ”African Queen” by TuFace or dance ”Shoki” and watch people light up in glee. It is all about the effort.
9. Public transportation might be a struggle: Public transport is available, but they need to work with more flexible schedules and may be cramped. If you’re not in a hurry and want a whole experience, jump into a ‘danfo” ‘ or hail a shared cab a few times. Uber and Taxify work seamlessly in Nigeria, as do local taxis for more comfortable options. Your transportation will be handled if you book a tour or custom experience.
10. Money: Some cities encourage cashless transactions and will accept card payments in most places. These can be unreliable in smaller towns and smaller establishments. To be safe, always carry enough cash for the day (not too little to get stranded and not too much). ATMs are available nationwide; if you have a local guide, they can handle most of the transactions.
11. Religion is part and parcel of everyday life: Nigeria tolerates all religions. However, do not expect people to separate their religious activities from their work lives. Even though the country is a secular state, almost half of the population identifies as Christian, and a similar portion identifies as Muslim. The local traditional religions have managed to survive interspersed among Christianity and Islam. There is also a thin but growing population of Hindus and other religious sects. Do not be surprised to see people praying at the start of meetings or how proudly Nigerians wear their religious affiliations on their cars, door posts and popular culture. The country is also well-decorated with churches and mosques. You can visit some churches and mosques for a more robust experience.
12. Everything is a contradiction: There is so much wealth in the country — you’ll find people living lifestyles that rival British royalty or American tycoons on legitimate wealth. In the same square mile, you’ll see people living in poverty. In Nigeria, everything exists side by side and in seeming harmony — wealth and poverty, corruption, and religion; while these things exist simultaneously, the contradiction is often stark and visible.
13. Nigerians are flamboyant people: In Nigeria, big houses are big, parties are loud, and weddings are extravagant. Nigerians are flamboyant compared to other African countries and often display their wealth innocently. Nigerian weddings have a life of their own. Creative tour operators like TVP Adventures now offer packages to experience a wedding firsthand or attend a typical ‘‘owambe” (celebration).
14. Brace for the Traffic (Lagos): If you visit Lagos, you must brace for the traffic. Veteran Lagosians may know the short windows during which traffic is light, but you’ll most likely meet some traffic during your visit. This is especially true if your accommodation is separate from your meetings, events, or tours. While you crawl through, note the hawkers selling everything from CDs to cold bottled drinks to air mattresses and standing fans in traffic. Lagos traffic doubles as a mobile department store. True story!
15. Take your vaccines & necessary precautions: This is a no-brainer when visiting a new country. Do not forget to see your doctor to ensure you are not unnecessarily susceptible to tropical bugs or allergens. Nigeria is not more diseased than other countries. However, residents of a country will often be more immune to certain illnesses than visitors to that place. Take extra care to sleep with mosquito nets or lotions, and drink bottled water everywhere you go.
16. Do your research: Before jetting off to Nigeria, take the time to learn about the country’s history, customs, and local traditions. This will enrich your travel experience and help you navigate any cultural differences.
17. Medical Emergencies: Nigeria may pose health risks or unforeseen medical emergencies like any other country. Travel insurance covers medical expenses, ensuring access to quality healthcare without excessive costs.
18. Hospitalisation and Treatment: Health insurance ensures you receive appropriate medical attention in case of a severe illness or injury requiring hospitalisation. It covers hospital bills, doctor fees, and other related expenses, offering financial protection during unexpected health crises.
19. Evacuation and Repatriation: Travel insurance often includes provisions for medical evacuation in case of severe health issues that require transport to a better-equipped medical facility or even repatriation to your home country for continued treatment. This can be crucial in critical situations.
20. Get your documents in order: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Additionally, check if you require a visa and apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
21. Stay connected: Nigeria is well-connected in mobile networks, so consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. This will not only provide you with affordable internet access but also allow you to stay connected with your loved ones back home.
22. Stay healthy: It’s crucial to prioritise your health while travelling. Ensure you are current with routine vaccinations and consider getting additional vaccines such as typhoid and yellow fever. Also, remember to drink bottled water and practice good hygiene to avoid stomach troubles.
23. Stay safe: Like any other destination, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuable items, and use reliable transportation options. Registering with your embassy or consulate before travelling is always a good idea.
24. Embrace the local cuisine: Nigeria is a food lover’s paradise with many delicious dishes. From jollof rice to suya, indulge in the local flavours and savour the unique culinary experience.
25. Explore the natural wonders: Nigeria boasts stunning natural landscapes, including breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches, and wildlife reserves. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit places like OlumoRock, Yankari National Park, and the beautiful Niger Delta.
26. Immerse yourself in the culture: Nigeria is a melting pot of cultures, each with its traditions and festivals. Take the time to attend local events, visit museums, and interact with the friendly locals to immerse yourself in the vibrant Nigerian culture.