Does anybodyhave any advice for me. I'll be visiting Nigeria in December, I was there more than 15 years ago. What has changed, who has changed, and where has changed?

naijaking1:

Does anybodyhave any advice for me. I'll be visiting Nigeria in December, I was there more than 15 years ago. What has changed, who has changed, and where has changed?

Keep low profile, get some medication b4 u go cos change of weather, food etc will hit u ,i was there last yr after 10yrs and really enjoyed every minute of it though i did not take some medication b4 going and i paid dearly for it cos after eating all the food i missed then stomach prob came calling.
If u got alot of family members/friends then buy gifts as much as u can cos u can't give money to everybody and no amount is too much or too small.

Will add more when i remember but others will contribute as well.

NaijaKing

Can you imagine a ghanian, a Kenyan, a south African or a Togolese asking this kind of question just because he is going back home after fiften years?

Maybe you want us to tell you, please dont go o, you will be mobbed and attacked at the airport or something? What has changed/ In fifteen years, do you think things will still be the same? what advice do you want us to give you to visit your own home? Going home after only fifteen years aint no big deal bro, just go, be yourself, forget any foreign accent you may have, Nigerians hate peple who talk foreign, they wont even look your way, dont expect anybody partronising you because you are JJC, those kind of things were in the past, past, past, nobody sends anyone these days, just be yourself.

As per medications, do you have a weak imune system? why do you want to carry medications because you are going back to your home where the same food made you grow up? what has changed in your system in fifteen years? maybe they are talking of mosquitos, but say for food, hmmmmm, maybe they have a bad cook, so, dont use that as a yard stick, man, dont expect anything grandiose, and, try, try, try not to show off to anyone, that just pisses people off.

tosh_acer:

NaijaKing

Can you imagine a ghanian, a Kenyan, a south African or a Togolese asking this kind of question just because he is going back home after fiften years?
Maybe you want us to tell you, please dont go o, you will be mobbed and attacked at the airport or something? What has changed/ In fifteen years, do you think things will still be the same? what advice do you want us to give you to visit your own home?

.
Just shot it if u got nothing to tell him. Why do we turn every simple thing into a huge issue?.

justwise:

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Just shot it if u got nothing to tell him. Why do we turn every simple thing into a huge issue?.

It is you making a big issue out of my posting, if you dont like what i wrote, buy sand paper and use it to wipe your smelly butt hole.

tosh_acer:

It is you making a big issue out of my posting, if you dont like what i wrote, buy sand paper and use it to wipe your smelly butt hole.

Why were u having a go at him for asking a question? Silly cows like u always always turn issues into home v abroad war of words. I just can't get my head around it.

Shame on u, u even went and edited your previous post AFTER i commented on it, sorry but i quoted it already.

I just went through some of your previous posts and noticed the the level of anger and hatred u have for Nigerians abroad. What is your prob? Have u been deported/denied visa b4? U really really need medical attention cos this is not normal.

Justwise

If you need my residence permit for the UK or for America, I will give you because, i dont realy need it. Better things doing somewhere else. You are not only a silly cow, you are a deranged antelope and a farting monkey.

tosh_acer:

Justwise

If you need my residence permit for the UK or for America, I will give you because, i dont realy need it. Better things doing somewhere else. You are not only a silly cow, you are a deranged antelope and a farting monkey.

Indeed. What a dream. Tell me how u managed to get both.

so that you can steal them?

tosh_acer:

so that you can steal them?

I don't need ur fake permits, they are as usless as u.

God, how threads digress on Nairaland! 

Naijaking did ask a very valid question, and Justwise gave valid points in his response. And yes, there are medical isues to contend with, which is nothing to do with hygiene, or a bad cook.

A 5-year absense is enough for your immune system to need boosting before you travel from the West to Africa, 15 years more so! Why ruin what should be a joyous occassion by deciding not to take adequate medication before travelling?

A change in climate, diet etc are enough to make one ill, and these changes are not limited to Nigeria. Taking precautions doesn't mean you're turning your nose up at Nigeria.

It means you're being smart.

Siena:

God, how threads digress on Nairaland!

Naijaking did ask a very valid question, and Justwise gave valid points in his response. And yes, there are medical isues to contend with, which is nothing to do with hygiene, or a bad cook.

A 5-year absense is enough for your immune system to need boosting before you traven from the West to Africa, 15 years more so! Why ruin what should be a joyous occassion by deciding not to take adequate medication before travelling?
A change in climate, diet etc are enough to make one ill, and these changes are not limited to Nigeria. Taking precautions doesn't mean you're turning your nose up at Nigeria.
It means you're being smart.

God bless u

justwise:

Keep low profile, get some medication b4 u go cos change of weather, food etc will hit u ,i was there last yr after 10yrs and really enjoyed every minute of it though i did not take some medication b4 going and i paid dearly for it cos after eating all the food i missed then stomach prob came calling.
If u got alot of family members/friends then buy gifts as much as u can cos u can't give money to everybody and no amount is too much or too small.
Will add more when i remember but others will contribute as well.

Good advice, I really appreciate it.

tosh_acer:

NaijaKing

Can you imagine a ghanian, a Kenyan, a south African or a Togolese asking this kind of question just because he is going back home after fiften years?

Maybe you want us to tell you, please dont go o, you will be mobbed and attacked at the airport or something? What has changed/ In fifteen years, do you think things will still be the same? what advice do you want us to give you to visit your own home? Going home after only fifteen years aint no big deal bro, just go, be yourself, forget any foreign accent you may have, Nigerians hate peple who talk foreign, they wont even look your way, dont expect anybody partronising you because you are JJC, those kind of things were in the past, past, past, nobody sends anyone these days, just be yourself.

As per medications, do you have a weak imune system? why do you want to carry medications because you are going back to your home where the same food made you grow up? what has changed in your system in fifteen years? maybe they are talking of mosquitos, but say for food, hmmmmm, maybe they have a bad cook, so, dont use that as a yard stick, man, dont expect anything grandiose, and, try, try, try not to show off to anyone, that just pisses people off.

Old boy, no need to be sarcastic.
15 years ago, cell phones were not very common, 15 years ago kidnapping and ransome demands were not heard of, I can go on and on and tell you the things I know that have changed since then, so I don't think my quest for advice is wrong.
However, I appreciate your advice about lying low, no need to attract attention to ones-self.
And the idea about medications? I definitely need some medications, not just for malaria, but for diarrhea/dehydration, and fever, etc.

@ naijaking1, I'm certainly glad you understand. there is no need to make issues in this case. Both of them were right. And I dont think they should have exchange of words among themselves. Personally, I understand what both of them are trying to drive at and they are right.
You need some medication and some other stuffs. And of course, you will get most of the medication over there in Nigeria main cities. For example the malaria medicine is not common in most European countries if you are in europe. And of course, you need to buy gifts for the people you left home for 15 years ago. But dont buy those cheap phones they are out of date in nigeria. lol!!! just kidding!!lol
And what I understand from the other guy. some people think Nigeria is still one 'primitive village' after they left Nigeria. of course, 15 years was a long time and so many things must have changed which is good that you asked your questions.
I have a friend who spend only 3 years without going to Nigeria and he thinks that nobody in Nigeria has a laptop that once he go to Nigeria he will show off his laptop. that is very big mistake on some people. I agree we are not yet civilized but that does not mean there are no much more people out of 120million in Nigeria that dont know the latest lifestyle and fassion.
so, you just bear in mind that lifestyle and even some culture must have change in the area you come from. My only advice is that in your case, you should maintain a low profile and monitor what is going on around you. In that regard you will find out who is who in your area.
And as discussed in this forum several times being abroad does not mean the person is better than people at home.
Have a safe trip and enjoy your holiday!

@kood
Thank you, your advice is very valuable.

I dont understand why the objector had to bring other African countries into it. Are you trying to say that there are no Ghanians or other Africans that have stayed abroad without going home for many many years?

I went back recently after about 11 years and I did ask a few questions about the situation at the Airport because of previous bad experiences and the need to bribe or being delayed. I got good info that laid my mind to rest.

To be honest with you, it depends on where you are going and who is waiting for you over in Nja. Getting around might be a problem unless you have a great power of recall, very streetwise and perhaps you are going to a small town/village. There is more okadas (motorcycles) than ever before. Electricity and water supply has got worse than 15 years ago. Mobile phones everywhere but it kinda expensive in the long run - people speak very quickly to each other. I am disppointed that Land lines (NITEL) are virtually non-existent except for big cities and companies.

I bought my Malaria tablet over in Nigeria - although you are supposed to have taken some weeks before getting to a malaria infested country. I also got my Yellow fever & Cholera in Nigeria - mine was just 1 year out. Stick with bottles water (not bore-hole or pure water) for a while until your stomach is settled (keep hydrated).

Also keep a reasonably low profile esp if going to the East or out in big cities (muggers just like any big city in the world). Dont change money at the airport but change money quickly and get used to the bank notes (they have changed). Dont flash 500 and 100 nairas about and let the people tha know buy and haggle for you.

You need an unlocked phone - can be a hassle trying to unlock in Nja or borrow one. I think MTN network cards are the best

chris_j:

I dont understand why the objector had to bring other African countries into it. Are you trying to say that there are no Ghanians or other Africans that have stayed abroad without going home for many many years?
I went back recently after about 11 years and I did ask a few questions about the situation at the Airport because of previous bad experiences and the need to bribe or being delayed. I got good info that laid my mind to rest.
To be honest with you, it depends on where you are going and who is waiting for you over in Nja. Getting around might be a problem unless you have a great power of recall, very streetwise and perhaps you are going to a small town/village. There is more okadas (motorcycles) than ever before. Electricity and water supply has got worse than 15 years ago. Mobile phones everywhere but it kinda expensive in the long run - people speak very quickly to each other. I am disppointed that Land lines (NITEL) are virtually non-existent except for big cities and companies.
I bought my Malaria tablet over in Nigeria - although you are supposed to have taken some weeks before getting to a malaria infested country. I also got my Yellow fever & Cholera in Nigeria - mine was just 1 year out. Stick with bottles water (not bore-hole or pure water) for a while until your stomach is settled (keep hydrated).
Also keep a reasonably low profile esp if going to the East or out in big cities (muggers just like any big city in the world). Dont change money at the airport but change money quickly and get used to the bank notes (they have changed). Dont flash 500 and 100 nairas about and let the people tha know buy and haggle for you.You need an unlocked phone - can be a hassle trying to unlock in Nja or borrow one. I think MTN network cards are the best

That is true, i went through hell at Abuja trying to unlock one and its costly.

that tosh is a real t0sser! After 15 years of eating a variety of food, it will be hard on the digestive system to just starting eating pure Nja food especially the heavy, starchy food and very few vegetables and fruits.

Nigerians find food expensive - and it is expensive for a lot of people compared to the cost of food in the western countries. Apart from relative cost, people eat more fresh food (lack of electricity to preserve food and culture) and fresh is expensive and one need to go to the market often.

After 15 years, you will need to buy gifts. A pain depending on how big your family and extended family is, Buy small items that can be easily carried and preferably non-consumables- dont go crazy about gifts because you can never satisfy everyone. For close members of the family or loved ones, you can ask them to give you ideas but once you do that, it might be hard not to buy what they want. Or you one person to give you ideas about others and then you buy what you want. Dont give out everything straightaway - keep some small stuff like shaving sticks, socks, vest, t-shirts, beady necklaces and bracelets, tolietries, not too expensive perfume body lotion or perfume, toys and so on for the people that just turn up.

Try to be generous to people that help you - taxis drivers, house helpers, escorts and other hangers on. * Also take your drivers licence, birth certificate and other docs; and try to get a Nigerian passport if you dont have one (photocopy the docs).

What is the situation as regards Internet Cafes in Nigeria? I suppose big cities have many Internet access points but in some of the smaller towns, I dont think they are not enough or none at all. I thought there will be at least access to internet up and down the country but electricity is always a problems - even those mushroom photocopy/comms centre only put the generator on when they have business. I thought about 10 years or so ago, people were setting up communication centre all over the place.

How much is to access the internet at an internet cafe? Can Lagos people please enlighten us on the location of some of the popular and good Internet Cafes. An aunt of mine had a internet/flash drive/usb dongle to access the internet - I think she said she pays about 12,000 naira a month for this faclity - its just like broadband (I dont know whether it is also linked to her mobile phone).

Can this dongle access be bought/acquired for just a month or so; or does one have to enter into a contract like you would with a broadband access?

Unlock your phone before coming or buy a cheap one in Nigeria. I dont advice you just handing over an expensive mobile phone to just any unlock business.

You guys are great!
So there's 500 naira note? When I left Murtala (20) was the highest denomination.
The advice on cell phone is also right on.
There was no internet cafe in Nigeria when last I visited, so I might need the cafe once in a while to check my email.
I have paid a bit more to avoid Lagos airport, so I'll be landing at Abuja. I never been Abuja before. Then I will go to Enugu, and then village.
What do you guys think about driving around Enugu/Onitsha/Okigwe/PH and Calabar areas----- risky, very risky, abominable, or don't even think about it?

Driving around in the East? Well, people do so everyday - so it should not be a problem. But from what I hear (from News and a man on the plane cut his travel shotrt) the major kidnapping is from that part of the country but it should not stop you going about your business. Are you in a country where they drive on the same side as Nigeria? If so, then you might feel confident about driving but I doubt your driving skill will be up to driving in major bigger cities like Enugu or Calabar but then I doubt you will be driving yourself around. I only drove in my village but couldnt drive to and in Lagos or Ibadan for example.

Go on Wikipedia or CBN website to see the new banknotes, 20 naira would not get you much these days - an orange, groundnut, photocopy (1 page), a text of message, smallest of snacks, a sachet of pure water, change and begger money etc,

Murtala Muhammed is a much better airport these days. You dont need to go all the way to Abuja but Abuja is a beautiful place and worth a visit. I did my service in Calabar and it still look like a fine city from some pictures on Nairaland (check it out on Travel forum).

Brother! Some people on Nairaland might have intense bad feelings to people abroad and will defend Nigeria regardless of what is the truth but you will find that overall Nigeria has gone backwards. Yes, some people are doing well, have laptops etc, big jeeps, houses and are enlightened but my summation is that the quality of life for the average is down - trust, education, food, amenities, road networks and even quality of radio and TV.
But Nigeria is still alive and will challenge you, frustrate you, educate you, spiritualise you and above all entertain and make you smile at the many idiosyncracies. Dont fear or worry - go boldly and enjoy yourself!

@chris_j
Thank you and God bless you!

Ol boy - so you dont even know there is 1000naira note? Fifteen years ago? thats just 1994. not too long ago if u realy ask me, and for sure, internet cafes were all over the place then.

The internet has grown large in Nigeria, wireless providers are all over the place, MTN, Globacom, Visafone etc. People browse the internet on their phones this days, people send and receive emails from their blackberry phones, you can buy one of the Visafone mobile internt stuff, it is very good, 21000 to buy the dongle and then you chose the plan u want, i have a 24 hour plan which i pay only 15,000 naira for monthly, if you travel and u dont use it, keep the donlge till you return, and then pay for the period you come back - its so easy, you dont need to go to internet cafes, my bro.

Brother! Some people on Nairaland might have intense bad feelings to people abroad and will defend Nigeria regardless of what is the truth but you will find that overall Nigeria has gone backwards. Yes, some people are doing well, have laptops etc, big jeeps, houses and are enlightened but my summation is that the quality of life for the average is down - trust, education, food, amenities, road networks and even quality of radio and TV.

Sir, this may not be 100% true.

what is that guys problem - if ur out of the country for a long time catching malaria is almost a death sentence. so one has to take their shots and medication b4 travelling its not about hygine just BASIC COMMON SENSE

as for asking the question what is wrong with asking it. sometimes envy is a bad thing - which one is not to talk in a different accent - so just cos ur in nigeria u have to take out ur tongue and keep quiet - how many of u people back home can change ur accent (convincingly) arrant nonsense.

if people don't like ur phonei they should go and die.

keep a low profile don't buy expensive gift cos its buying expensive presents is like a box of pringles - once u start u can't stop - lol

^^^^ Uncle, no fight, when you come back, start talking thru your nose, even little kids will look at you and say whats wrong with you, remember, this is Naija, noone send anyone. Noone is envying anyonem ask me how long I have lived in London, you will keep quiet, bros, i no envy anyone o.

why will i ask u how long u have lived in london - that sounds so bush.

how can someone like me for example that was brought up here change their voice - even if u try it still comes out.

each to their own


I'M NOT FIGHTING WITH YOU - U JUST SOUND SOMEHOW THATS ALL

- if you like call me bush - i no send u. Asking you to ask me is just literarily speaking, i see you may be born there but still dont understand the language.

tosh, give it a rest. Just give the guy advice - good advice on the Internet, thx.
Even without speaking, people know a JJC - it can be obvious. I went with my mum to the market and I was speaking adulterated Yoruba - like most educated peope (not many people speak pure dialect). And the people are just saying look at him, and was making comment in Yoruba which I understtod. I just laughed and told them at the end that I am not a JJC - but I was really. You never lose your language completely but I will not be confident to make a speech or read out in public in Yoruba without practice. * If speaking to officials, throw in a few dialects and tone down accent - it makes things easier, e.g at airport, police checks, passport office and others; and in markets let people that know help or speak pigeon English.

But there is no need to pick on the person that was born abroad or have stayed a long time in the company of whites, At least by coming to Nairaland, the person is identifying with fellow Nigerians. I find it funny that some Nigerians complain or make comments about abroad kids whereas all their kids go to private school and they speak English at school and home in Nigeria. Many nephews and nieces are not so different from those here in the way the speak and behave - some are even more spoiled and have little social skills.

Yes, it is not 100% true that Nigeria has gone backwards - just my opinion but it is the kind of country where we try to run before we can walked. There are some aspects of Nigeria that are better for Nigerians than the average Brit or American but we have not taking the whole country forward compared to countries like Ghana, Egypt, Libya and the other North African countries. We are so rich but so wasteful and greedy!

chris_j:

tosh, give it a rest. Just give the guy advice - good advice on the Internet, thx.
Even without speaking, people know a JJC - it can be obvious. I went with my mum to the market and I was speaking adulterated Yoruba - like most educated peope (not many people speak pure dialect). And the people are just saying look at him, and was making comment in Yoruba which I understtod. I just laughed and told them at the end that I am not a JJC - but I was really. You never lose your language completely but I will not be confident to make a speech or read out in public in Yoruba without practice. * If speaking to officials, throw in a few dialects and tone down accent - it makes things easier, e.g at airport, police checks, passport office and others; and in markets let people that know help or speak pigeon English.

But there is no need to pick on the person that was born abroad or have stayed a long time in the company of whites, At least by coming to Nairaland, the person is identifying with fellow Nigerians. I find it funny that some Nigerians complain or make comments about abroad kids whereas all their kids go to private school and they speak English at school and home in Nigeria. Many nephews and nieces are not so different from those here in the way the speak and behave - some are even more spoiled and have little social skills.

Yes, it is not 100% true that Nigeria has gone backwards - just my opinion but it is the kind of country where we try to run before we can walked. There are some aspects of Nigeria that are better for Nigerians than the average Brit or American but we have not taking the whole country forward compared to countries like Ghana, Egypt, Libya and the other North African countries. We are so rich but so wasteful and greedy!

THANK YOU AT LEAST SOME SENSE AT LAST

redsky1:

what is that guys problem - if your out of the country for a long time catching malaria is almost a death sentence. so one has to take their shots and medication b4 travelling its not about hygine just BASIC COMMON SENSE

as for asking the question what is wrong with asking it. sometimes envy is a bad thing - which one is not to talk in a different accent - so just cos your in nigeria u have to take out your tongue and keep quiet - how many of u people back home can change your accent (convincingly) arrant nonsense.

if people don't like your phonei they should go and die.

keep a low profile don't buy expensive gift cos its buying expensive presents is like a box of pringles - once u start u can't stop - lol

LOL . . .