As I, Wisdom G Yohanna, walked into my friend Lolzap's place, I was greeted with a familiar sight – him enjoying a bowl of garri. For those who may not know, garri is a popular Nigerian staple made from cassava tubers. It's a beloved snack that brings people together, and I'm no exception. However, my approach to enjoying garri is a bit...unconventional.
As I approached Lolzap, I couldn't help but notice the garri in his bowl. My academic curiosity got the better of me, and I asked, "Are you drinking granular Manihot esculenta starch?" Lolzap looked at me, confusion etched on his face. I'm pretty sure he was wondering why I was using such fancy language to describe something as simple as garri.
But Lolzap being the proud Nigerian he is, responded with a grin, "As a Nigerian, if you don't drink garri, you're not a Nigerian. It's either you eat garri by drinking or eba." I was taken aback by his response, but I couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all. Who knew garri could be such a defining aspect of Nigerian identity?
In that moment, I realized that Lolzap was not just enjoying garri; he was celebrating his cultural heritage. Garri is more than just a food staple in Nigeria; it's a symbol of community, tradition, and identity. When Nigerians gather to share a bowl of garri, they're not just satisfying their hunger; they're connecting with their roots.
As I watched Lolzap savor his garri, I couldn't resist joining in on the fun. But, in a moment of playful jest, I decided to "celebrate" him in my own way – by throwing the garri. I know, I know, it was a bit of a childish move, but hey, when it comes to garri, all bets are off!
The Great Garri Incident, as I've come to call it, was a lighthearted reminder of the power of cultural traditions and the importance of community. It showed me that even in the simplest of moments, we can find joy, laughter, and connection with others.
As I reflect on that day, I realize that garri is more than just a food; it's a way of life. It's a symbol of Nigerian resilience, creativity, and community. Whether you're drinking it or eating it as eba, garri brings people together in a way that's hard to find with other foods.
So, the next time you find yourself in a Nigerian gathering, don't be surprised if someone offers you a bowl of garri. Take a seat, grab a spoon, and join in the fun. Who knows, you might just find yourself celebrating the beauty of Nigerian culture, just like I did.
▶️ 3Speak