What I love about being Nigerian is something that’s hard to put into a definite set of words. That’s why this write-up is as much an explanation of what I love the most about my country as it is an exploration into my own mind.
I think I should start by saying that although I desperately want to leave this country, I am not unhappy within it. So long as I have my family and the few I consider true friends, that will never be possible. So is it then the community that I love? The communities that can only be formed in a system where nothing else works, and you have to rely on those precious to you? No, that’s not quite it.
What about our culture? In truth, I’d pick certain parts of Western culture over the culture I know- Yoruba culture- but not all. While I’m liberal by Nigerian standards, I’d probably be a moderate in the US. In Nigeria, human relationships are simple, and while I wouldn’t say we are more decent human beings than anywhere else- no, we are not; many of our fellow citizens are incredibly frustrated and can be incredibly cruel- However, I can say those who are normal are very normal.
So what then is it that I can say I love so much about this place? Well, it’s the realness and homeliness of it all. It’s the people, independent of any community. It’s not something unique to our country but it is something that permeates it. I have never met a person I couldn’t reason with and find common ground if I tried.
As a Yoruba person I’m tired of having to greet every one and their grandma, but I believe strongly in the Nigerian spirit of helping out someone in need. Whether it’s an old woman struggling with a load or someone trying to reverse out of a tight spot. It isn’t culture in the sense of food, clothing or language, but I know even when I am lost here, I’ll find my way home, and that’s it for me. I love the fact that Nigeria is home.
PS: Forgive my pictures, I no sabi snap. ```
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