Nigeria, a vibrant and lively country, is known for its rich culture, bustling cities, and warm-hearted people. But recently, a curious trend has emerged. Truth is, to say that Japa is a trend, is to spew unnecessary non-facts. It is no more a trend than yahoo. Japa is a culture brought about by a belief system.
While the idea of starting a new adventure abroad might seem alluring, we’re here to show you that staying in Nigeria is the way to go! Yes, Nigeria has had a culture of japa for a long time now but Benin people always take things to another level. Just ask our Italian aunties and the few uncles who came back from their journey to Europe via North Africa. Anyway, let’s take a light-hearted look at why “japa” might not be the best thing to do.
Food Adventures!
I have only been in this Canada for two weeks and I’m already craving hot yam and better owo. I know it’s village people but sometimes, you have to prefer your village witches to sandwiches.
Why leave behind the culinary wonders of Nigeria? From mouth-watering jollof rice battles to the delightfully spicy suya, your taste buds are in for a treat! Forget about those fancy Michelin-starred restaurants abroad; you’ll never find puff-puff as tasty anywhere else. Embrace the joy of eating your weight in Nigerian delicacies and treasure the unique gastronomic experiences right at home.
Our Collective Love Language!
Sometimes, I’ll just burst into pidgin in a pub as I’m watching the game before I remember I’m not in my home country. There are a lot of Nigerians to speak it with here, but it is now clearly a secondary language for me.
Sure, English is the official language, but have you mastered the art of speaking Nigerian Pidgin? The tongue acrobatics and creative expressions are nothing short of an entertaining masterpiece. It’s the only language where you can “yab” someone affectionately and make them feel cherished. If only for pidgin English, stay put o – it’s a superpower you won’t want to give up!
Traffic Olympics!
There’s traffic everywhere but at least you can buy gala and bottled water in Nigerian traffic.
Who needs amusement parks when you have the ultimate rollercoaster ride called Nigerian traffic? Dodging speeding Gee Boys in their Benzes, squeezing between crazy jalopie buses, and experiencing traffic jams that could rival a Tetris game – it’s an adventure you can’t find anywhere else! You think you will not miss people testing your patience when you move to a land where traffic is not caused by two mad men who have parked their car to fight about who was wrong with their driving.
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Power Outage!
If there’s one thing Nigerians are experts at, it’s turning adversity into a celebration! Do you really want to say goodbye to infrequent electricity and to a generator-powered lifestyle, where neighbors compete with one another over who can keep theirs running the longest. “Japa” may give you a stable power supply, but it can’t match the blissful spirit of a good old-fashioned “NEPA joy” when the power is restored.
The Humorous Life!
Nigerians have an extraordinary talent for finding humor in any situation, no matter how challenging. This priceless skill helps navigate through life’s ups and downs with a smile. Leaving Nigeria might expose you to the seriousness of life elsewhere, especially if you’re going to the “over woke” world where all kinds of mumuness is celebrated. Home is where your sense of humor can flourish!
Final Thoughts
While the allure of japa out of Nigeria might be tempting, staying in this colorful country has its own unique rewards. From savoring delectable dishes to mastering the art of Nigerian Pidgin, and from embracing traffic adventures to finding joy in even power outage, there’s a treasure trove of laughter awaiting you right here.
So, before you travel without telling anyone (because they are the witches that will bring down your plane or whatever), take a moment to cherish the beauty of Nigeria – a land filled with resilience, humor, and an indomitable spirit. Embrace the chaos, dance in the rain, and remember that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side; sometimes, it’s pretty green right where you are!
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