People encounter culture shock when they return to Nigeria from a culture that has made them comfortable and secure. But still, we yearn for the dust of Africa, the smell, the food, the sun, the lot. Here are five culture shocks one may encounter when you move to Nigeria.
Begging Culture – People beg in Nigeria. There is a belief that if you have lived overseas, you are well off and there is an expectation to offer money when asked. Some places where begging is rife include, the airport, residential neighbourhoods, shops, banks and generally on the street. This culture is so bad that your details are not safe in certain places where you would expect them to be.
Poor Amenities – You will need to get used to bad roads, irregular electricity supply, phone and data network failure etc. You may live in Ikoyi or another posh area and feel removed from such poor amenities, remember you will need to leave the house now and again. Be aware.
You are Rich! – Because people think you are well off, they expect you to live up to the standard! You will therefore have to show people who you are and be true to yourself. Can you afford going out all the time and live the high life? Remember to cut your coat according to your cloth and make sure you associate yourself with real friends. Do not let people put you on a pedestal.
Corruption! – There is corruption in Nigeria. Handouts are expected almost everywhere in exchange for a good service. This behaviour is rife amongst officials in offices, the police force, the traffic officers, local government touts and fraudsters located everywhere. For instance, in hospitals, workers sell medication at inflated prices even to vulnerable people which is very unfortunate.
Squalor – Dirt is everywhere. In Lagos where I live, we have very few rubbish bins in public places, not enough public toilets when compared to the population. People thus relieve themselves by the roadside without being ashamed! You may have a fancy house with high gates, as soon as you drive out of your gates and travel a small distance, the dirt and filth start to show up.
Despite all the culture shocks mentioned above, you can still live in Nigeria and enjoy it. More importantly, you will have to make up your mind that you want to live in this captivating country.
Nigeria is home, a vibrant place, there is never a dull moment and most of the people are friendly.
God have mercy on us. Wash us in the blood of Jesus. Make us clean and make us whole. Amen
You definitely nailed it well. God bless you sis
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We ask God to give us the grace to do his Will. Amen.🙏
This reminded me so much of when I returned to Nigeria as a child. It was a shock but it was an enriching experience. It was good to be amongst my people. It was also good to see life in the village : going at its own rythm and so simple. Those are memories I will forever treasure because there is no where like home (despite the shortcomings). We continue to pray for our country that is so rich in so many things.
Exactly Sis, I love Nigeria no matter what. Yes, the culture shock experience is there but what about those rich memories you mentioned. Nobody can take that away from us. Nigeria will be great again 🙏
Well said sis those are the obstacles we have to face and more. There is no place like home. May God help us🙏
Amen Sis.