ABOUT NIGERIA
È káàbọ̀
(You are welcome)
About NIGERIA
Welcome to Nigeria, the most populous and vibrant country in Africa. Whether you are looking for business opportunities, cultural experiences, or natural wonders, Nigeria has something for everyone.
Nigeria is a country located on the western coast of Africa. It has a diverse geography, with climates ranging from arid to humid equatorial. However, Nigeria’s most diverse feature is its people. Hundreds of languages are spoken in the country, including Yoruba, Igbo, Fula, Hausa, Edo, Ibibio, Tiv, and English. The country has a long and fascinating history, from the ancient kingdoms of Ife, Benin, and Nok, to the colonial era and the struggle for independence, to the present day challenges and achievements. Nigeria is also blessed with abundant natural resources, such as oil, gas, minerals, and agricultural products. Nigeria is the largest oil producer in Africa and one of the top 10 in the world. Nigeria also exports other products such as cocoa beans, cashew nuts, and nitrogenous fertilizers.
Language
The official language of Nigeria is English, but many people also speak other languages such as Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Pidgin English. You can use online translation tools such as Bing Translator to communicate with locals who do not speak English
Currency
The currency of Nigeria is the naira (NGN), which is divided into 100 kobo. You can exchange your money at banks or authorized bureaux de change. You can also use credit cards or mobile payment methods such as Visa or Mastercard in some places, but cash is still widely used.
Climate
The climate of Nigeria varies by region, but generally it is hot and humid throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from April to October in most parts of the country. The dry season lasts from November to March in the north and from December to February in the south. You should pack light clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and an umbrella or raincoat
Transportation
The main airport in Lagos is Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), which is located about 20 km from the city center. You can take a taxi or a bus to get to your destination. You can also use ride-hailing services such as Uber or Bolt, but be aware that they may face regulations or restrictions in some areas.
The public transportation system in Lagos consists of buses, trains, ferries, motorcycles, tricycles, and taxis. You can use a prepaid card called Lagos Connect Card to pay for your fares on buses and ferries. You can also use online platforms such as Gokada, Max.ng, or ORide to book motorcycle rides.
Accomodation
The accommodation options in Lagos range from luxury hotels to budget hostels. You can use online platforms such as Jumia Travel, Hotels.ng, or Airbnb to find and book your accommodation. You can also use online platforms such as Jumia Food, Naija Foodies, or Ofadaa to order food delivery from local restaurants
Shopping
The shopping options in Lagos include modern malls, traditional markets, and online platforms. Some of the best malls in Lagos are Ikeja City Mall, Palms Shopping Mall, Novare Lekki Mall, Maryland Mall, and E-Centre. Some of the best markets in Lagos are Balogun Market, Computer Village, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, Oyingbo Market, and Tejuosho Market. Some of the best online platforms for shopping in Lagos are Jumia, Konga, Payporte, and DealDey.
Tips on The Nigerian Culture
Nigeria is a country with a rich and diverse culture, with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages. If you are planning to visit or work in Nigeria, it is important to respect and appreciate the customs and traditions of the people. Here are some tips on how to do that:
Greetings
Greetings are very important in Nigerian culture. You should always greet people with a smile and a handshake, and use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Chief when addressing elders or people of higher status. You should also greet people according to their ethnic group, such as saying “Sannu” in Hausa, “Bawo ni” in Yoruba, or “Kedu” in Igbo.
Table Manners
Nigerians are very hospitable and generous, and they often invite guests to their homes for meals or celebrations. If you are invited to a Nigerian home, you should bring a small gift, such as fruits, chocolates, or flowers. You should also compliment the host on their home and food, and eat with your right hand or a spoon. You should not refuse food or drink, as this may be seen as rude or ungrateful.
Religion
Nigerians are very religious, and they practice various faiths, such as Christianity, Islam, and traditional beliefs. You should respect the religious beliefs and practices of others, and avoid any topics that may cause offense or controversy. You should also dress modestly and appropriately when visiting places of worship, such as covering your head, shoulders, and knees.
Dressing
Nigerians are very proud of their heritage and identity, and they often wear colorful and distinctive clothing that reflects their ethnic group or region. You should admire and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Nigerian attire, and avoid wearing anything that may be seen as disrespectful or inappropriate. You may also try wearing some Nigerian clothing yourself, such as an Ankara dress or a Dashiki shirt, but make sure you do it with respect and sensitivity.
Social Life
Nigerians are very friendly and sociable, and they love to have fun and enjoy life. You should join in the festivities and celebrations that take place throughout the year, such as festivals, weddings, birthdays, and holidays. You should also enjoy the music, dance, art, and literature that showcase the creativity and talent of Nigerian people. You should also try to learn some words or phrases in the local languages, as this will show your interest and appreciation of the culture.
Food
Nigerian food is delicious, diverse, and nutritious, with a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. Nigerian food is influenced by the different ethnic groups, regions, and climates of the country, as well as by the history and culture of the people. Here are some of the most popular and iconic dishes that you should try when you visit Nigeria:
Jollof Rice: This is one of the most famous dishes in Nigeria, and it is eaten in every part of the country. It is made with rice cooked in a tomato-based sauce with spices, onions, peppers, and sometimes meat or fish. It is usually served with fried plantains, salad, or coleslaw.
Egusi Soup: This is a thick and hearty soup made with ground melon seeds (egusi), palm oil, vegetables (such as spinach or pumpkin leaves), meat (such as beef or goat), fish (such as stockfish or dried fish), crayfish, and seasonings. It is usually eaten with a starchy accompaniment (such as eba or fufu) that is used to scoop up the soup.
Suya: This is a spicy grilled meat snack that is popular in Nigeria, especially in the north. It is made with thin slices of beef or chicken marinated in a mixture of peanut powder (suya spice), salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, paprika, cumin powder, and vegetable oil. It is then skewered on sticks and grilled over a charcoal fire. It is usually served with sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cabbage.
Akara: This is a deep-fried bean cake that is eaten for breakfast or as a snack in Nigeria. It is made with peeled black-eyed beans that are soaked, blended, and mixed with onions, peppers, salt, and water to form a thick batter. It is then scooped into balls and fried in hot oil until golden brown. It is usually served with bread, pap (a cornmeal porridge), or ogi (a fermented corn drink).
Moi Moi: This is a steamed bean pudding that is eaten as a side dish or a main course in Nigeria. It is made with peeled black-eyed beans that are soaked, blended, and mixed with onions, peppers, salt, palm oil, hard-boiled eggs, and fish or meat. It is then wrapped in banana leaves or aluminum foil and steamed until cooked. It is usually served with rice, garri, or bread
Pounded Yam: This is a smooth and elastic dough that is eaten with soup or stew in Nigeria. It is made with boiled yams that are pounded in a mortar and pestle until smooth and stretchy. It is then molded into balls and dipped into soup or stew. It is usually eaten with egusi soup, ogbono soup, or ila asepo (okra soup).
Pepper Soup: This is a spicy and aromatic soup that is eaten as an appetizer or a main course in Nigeria. It is made with meat (such as goat, chicken, or catfish), water, palm oil, onions, peppers, ginger, garlic, and seasonings (such as uziza seeds, ehuru seeds, and utazi leaves). It is usually served hot with bread, yam, or plantain.
Conversation topics: Politics, religion
Be cautious while discussing these subjects with others. If you are unsure if a topic is acceptable, it is important to avoid upsetting someone or making them feel uncomfortable.
Do not assume that all Africans are the same. Across the continent, there is a wide range of diverse cultures and ethnicities. As a result, avoid comparing Nigerians to individuals from neighboring nations.
We hope you find this webpage useful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us. We wish you a wonderful and memorable stay in Nigeria and Lagos. Thank you for choosing us as your travel partner.
Suburbancares
Healing begins here
