Visiting Nigeria - The Lies, Myths & Horrors

For those of you just joining us hear on the “My Omo Naija” blogspot WELCOME!!!  To those who have been with us since our launch, thank you for showing so much love and continued support. 

One of the earlier stories first posted (My Coming 2 America Story) here on the blogspot was my account and experience returning to the United States to live and the things I learned on my road to survival here in America. If you have yet to check out the story and would like to, just look on the most popular or achieve list here on the site and pull it up. It’s one of the more entertaining and insightful pieces we have covered. Upon posting that particular story, I promised the viewers that it was Part One of a Three Part Series.

Today we go in on Part II.

Ok people; let me get focused…

I start off by posing the question, what do many of you do when you make reservations or plans for travel? Obviously everybody is different and unique in their routine but for the most part people typically check the calendar for dates, look for the best airfare/lodging prices and work to get the necessary traveling documents i.e. visa, passport and birth certificate.

You see traveling to Nigeria is an experience in itself that one must live in order to comprehend and understand. As I started this piece I did a quick Google search to find travel tips and guides on visiting Nigeria. These were my findings (I am not making this up); a map, comments from travelers with their awful experiences, an encyclopedia breakdown on Nigeria and an overwhelming abundance of information on bribery, corruption and safety (nearly 90%).

Even the United States State Department (Bureau of Consular Affairs) got into the act as it issued a travel warning on its website from October 19, 2010;

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Nigeria because of risks of kidnapping, robbery and other armed attacks. Violent crime committed by individuals and gangs, as well as by person wearing police and military uniforms, remains a problem throughout the country.

Now isn’t that the pot calling the kettle black! Look, I live here in the States and the things referred to by the State Department is equally troubling here if not worse on so many levels but that is for another discussion. There you have it; the United States government has now officially deemed my Nigeria a lawless state, disorderly and perilous.

Truth is, I am in no position to contradict their assessment until the world and I see better from my people. Case in point; what is up with this nonsense back home with the kidnappings by these maddening people anyways, enough with the buffoonery and dreadful acts on the lives of innocent families and children. PLEASE!!!

My Nigeria is a beautiful and loving place to visit when you get there. And no, not everybody is walking around with leaves tied to their waistline climbing up tree branches for respite.  She offers beautiful beaches, resorts, waterfalls and national parks for a family friendly setting as well. The Nigerian culture is rich in language, clothing and food. This in fact is how many distinguish one from another back home. For me, the most attractive and appealing quality Nigeria offers is the country’s connection and deep roots tied to the Atlantic Slave trade. I still recall on one of my visits home, my father taking me to the town of Badagry and explaining to me how slaves migrated from its shores. I can go on for days and tell you more but thought it would be most prudent to share with you some pointers in order to have a fun filled experience in Nigeria the next time you visit.

Presenting the “My Omo Naija” Survival Guide & Tips

1.    Not matter what commercial airline you fly; they always give you exquisite service on the first leg of the trip. However; when you embark on the Naija leg be it from France, Netherlands, Spain and off course England, the service is less friendly and at times can general become highly disrespectful. Like my man “A” always says; “don’t trip Ms. Flight Attendant I pay your salary”.

2.    No Disrespect!!! – know there is and expect bad odor (B.O.) on the leg leaving Nigeria even though deodorant is just slowly gaining acceptance.

3.    As far as I'm concerned, Heat is Heat!!! There is no let me plan for this particular season because it’s cooler outside. Just suck it up and deal with it. 

4.    Hotels are particularly expensive if they are 3 star and upwards but there are many boutique hotels especially in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja. But always try to get a referral from a recent guest as maintaining standards are a chronic AFRIKAN problem.

5.   The Nigerian food will have your mouth watering. The combination of rice, stews or soups, beef and fresh fish is simply delicious….meanwhile f your going long distances like from state to state and have enjoyed too much of that stew you might have to do your doo in the bushes. Looool…   

6.    No matter what your means for ground transportation, always prepare yourself for traffic (Go-Slow) and the crazy Okada (Motorbike Transport) drivers.

7.   Travelers or tourist always stick out like a sore thumb, so just shut your mouth and make sure you are with a trusted and responsible chaperone.  Everything will be Love!!!

8.    No; you are not going to catch malaria, bird flu, HIV/AIDS by visiting Nigeria. Unless you have other intentions that is not suitable for our general viewers.  But not everybody in Nigeria or Africa for that matter is a walking disease. Take your immunization and vaccination shots as a precautionary measure to be safe.

9.    Squat Toilets – if you go to a village are common practice. However; in places like Lagos there is an increasing number of public toilets similar to the ones found near construction sites here in America. Practice and prepare yourself to use a squat toilet at some point during your stay.

10. Nigerians, especially the kids will win you over at some point before you depart. It always happens!!!

I Love My Country and You Will 2…