₦airaland Forum

nex:
Wasn't quite sure if there were threads on fitness, gym, running, dieting, and healthy living on Nairaland, especially comparing how it is done in Nigeria to what happens across the rest of Africa, so I thought to start one.

Lately, the gym culture has been booming globally, and it may have been one of the positive consequences of the COVID 19 Lockdown, as well as the general health consciousness of Gen Z and also the BBL maintenance and customer acquisition trend among the baddies. Some people even see the gym and exercising as another avenue to create social media content, but this all goes a long way in making a lot of us more conscious of our fitness, wellness, and health.

One of the challenges I have noticed personally in Nigeria is the high cost of access to fitness centres and gyms, some of which may cost about the equivalent of workers' monthly minimum wage just to subscribe for a month. I would like to find out if it is a similar story in other parts of Africa, and find ways to disrupt this high cost of gym and fitness access.

Another aspect I'm trying to gain more clarity on is what percentage of Nigerians are actually embracing this fitness culture, because Nigeria is a very well populated country with almost 250,000,000 people, so a mere 10% fitfam enthusiasts may seem like quite a lot in a country with a few good gyms, and a few good roads to walk, run, or cycle on. Many say that Senegal is the fitness capital of Africa, and I hope to visit someday.

Finally, for now, I'm interested in knowing what can be done to increase the number of people proactively living fit and active lives. Not just being satisfied with seeing people who have been warned by their doctors to keep fit due to the risk of dying early, or the ladies trying to keep their Brazilian Butt Lifts in shape, I'm obsessed with how we can convert more people to start getting active just because they know it's the best way to live life.

If you have any additions, submissions, or suggestions, please share. I'm about to go for a walk in the rain.

I think you would want to survey a random sample of people already working out to find out why they started and why they are still consistent. Analyze the data then use that information to develop something.

For me the major reason I started was for self-improvement and to attract girls. The main reason I still workout is cause of the health benefits.

If there is something you want to develop, I would love to collaborate.

This didn't happen in Nigeria. Check the position of the driver.

Hungrychicken:
Me at 6’’0 and 60kg was skinny and hungry looking. Thats just puberty in Nigeria anyways. Add some weight, level up your drip and socialize more with girls

One important thing:
NEVER tell a girl you like her. Do everything together but never say the four letter words unless the feeling is mutual.
Relationships these days is mind games. So, be smarter!

Yeah bro. Your thoughts align perfectly with mine. You can even spend on her when in person, do anything you want but don't utter that word. To make matters worse some guys even tell girl they like them over text which is worse. If she didn't like you before, now she will see you as a spineless piece of shit.

When you tell someone you like them different 3 things can happen.
1. They outrightly reject you because they are not attracted to and you don't have anything to offer them. (This might be the OP case because 60kg at 180cm is obviously a poverty signal)
2. They accept you even though they don't like you but they see that can benefit from you, money or connection etc
3. They accept because they are attracted to you (This is why the some people can get away with telling the opposite sex they like them).

If you are an objectively attractive person you can get lots of women by just telling them directly you like them and 40-70% of the time it will work.
I found out looks also mattered for women but not to the same level as men. They can over-look your looks if you have something else of benefit.

And women are masters of this game.
This is the same reason women always say they don't like to tell guys they like them directly because aside from the fact that rejection hurts, the guy might not real like them but will still agree to date them because of sex (I am guilty of doing this too).

Tekashi89:
that normally works for me I've been with girls that we just flow naturally but once I tell them I like them they become distant

There is something I learnt sha. When you verbally tell someone you like them the game is over because they feel they have won you, it you are at their power. I know it sounds foolish or childish but sadly that's how the psychology works. As someone said you have to vibe instead of telling them.

Also you are too skinny for your height.

Sirchiboy:
I went to hospital for complete checkup and in the test have very low testosterone.
It had been the cause of my misforune right from birth.

Sleep, work out and eat a well balanced meal.

nairalanda1:
I once suggested a long time ago, online, that we should bury our wires for power supply purposes.

The responses I got suggested that 1) it would be too expensive 2) it would make isolating a fault on the line much more difficult.

Also, as for our archaic power system, that's easy. We don;'t pay a cost reflective tarrif for power, so the power companies cannot afford the massive upgrades they need to do to fix things. Government could do it, but it would involve borrowing at least 20 trillion yearly for the next ten years. And then the loans have to be paid.

Yeah, it requires massive investments to revamp Nigeria's power sector. Hopefully, a technological advancement will emerge that solves this issue in the next 100 years lol cause there is no hope in sight.

Rearealki:
So I have spoken to 4 ladies now. They all don’t pick my calls neither respond to my chats
I give up

Stop calling/chatting them without a reason. If you do they will think you are low value.

Interesting discussions, bosses.

I’m curious to hear from people here who are already established in tech (especially those working remotely or at senior levels).

For context: I have 24hrs electricity, fast internet, an engineering background, and a decent foundation in programming concepts (Boolean logic, basic algorithms), plus working knowledge of Python and SQL.

I already have a learning path I’m following, but I’d like to ask, if you were starting again today in Nigeria with these advantages I stated above, and the disadvantages the OP has already stated, what path or niche would you personally go for and why?

That's what I have also realised. In life you can't make someone like you. You don't have control over that so don't stress yourself.

Focus on what is in your control and when you do, you might be able to indirectly influence what is not in your control.

Same way you can't win a competition because of your power but instead have to prepare and present the best you have to offer in the hopes of winning. Same thing happens in other areas of life. You focus on what is in your control and use that to influence people's attraction towards you.

So what are those things that are in your control that you can use. In no particular order

1. Looks: How you look can influence a lot of things. Even for guys. It's how you present yourself, how you smell, your physique and posture etc.

2. Money

3. Confidence

As a guy improving in the above three will give you greater returns in happiness than focusing on trying to make one girl like you.

Rega99:
Despite her having pcos during our dating year, she got pregnant and she decided to abort it which i was strongly against.

Now we are married and she still hasn't gotten pregnant, it's over a year now. We did series of test and I did too and we are both okay, except for the fact that she has pcos. She hasn't seen her period for the past months. Very soon people will start asking questions.

Anyone with any experience about this and how to tackle it?

I'm not an expert on this topic but PCOS is linked to insulin resistance and insulin resistance is linked to type 2 diabetes. I have done a bit of research about it in the past.

Tell her to stop excessive consumption of junk food and sugar/carbs and also start exercising. It's hormonal issue most likely caused by diet and lifestyle choices.

1STCREATURE:
I'm a 28-year-old guy. I've worked on myself a lot and can easily pass for a Nollywood actor. The face, the height, the athletically fitted military stature, the V-shape, the broad shoulders, the lips, the walking steps—all complete the picture of a guy. Yet, I still find it too difficult to attract a girl easily. I'm not the type who can pursue a girl, please don't tell me to be social because I can't even make friends with these girls—they avoid too much familiarity with me. Mind you, I stay in one of the towns in the southwest. Please help, I'm getting depressed.

Try being direct.
If being social doesn't work for you, I will advise you to be direct. If you see a girl you like, tell her. This is different from pursuing.

If you are actually all the things you described and if that's the reason women are not attracted to you, it will be obvious from what they say when they reject you directly. No need to assume.

Another thing is that you might not be as attractive as you think you are or there is one thing cancelling out all the qualities you have like being broke or body and mouth odour.

If this doesn't work then ask one of your friends to set you up with someone.

If that doesn't work also then just accept it. It's not something you should be depressed about cause it's not in your control. Just keep doing things in your control like taking good care of yourself.

It's because they are very lean. They have a very low body fat percentage.

1000 Naira Note
Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu and Dr. Clement Isong


Finally, on the 1000 naira note, we have a two-for-one special featuring Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu and Dr. Clement Isong, two former Governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Their serious expressions show they meant business—like two headmasters ensuring the school runs smoothly.

Mai-Bornu and Isong were as critical to Nigeria’s economy as pepper is to any food cooked by a Yoruba woman.

Let’s start with Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu. Picture a financial genius, a man so smart that he became Nigeria's first indigenous Governor of the Central Bank. That’s right, he was the original money man, the king of savings and the king of currency.

When Mai-Bornu stepped in, he wasn’t just counting money; he was shaping the entire financial landscape of Nigeria.

This guy was basically the Tony Stark of Nigerian banking, minus the Iron Man suit. He had a vision for the country’s financial future and the brains to make it happen.

And then, there’s Dr. Clement Isong. If Mai-Bornu was Tony Stark, Isong was like Bruce Wayne—only instead of fighting crime, he was fighting for fiscal stability and good governance.

Dr. Clement Isong, on the other hand, wasn't just a Governor of the Central Bank but also a former governor of Cross River State. It’s like having the financial wisdom of Dangote and the influence of a well-respected Yoruba chief all rolled into one note.

Isong was a man of vision and action, a rare combination that made him a beloved figure in both the financial and political arenas.

In a way, these men were the financial wizards of their time, making sure Nigeria didn’t go broke and ensuring that Nigeria's economy could thrive.

500 Naira Note
Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe

Now we got the five hundred naira note featuring Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. Nigeria’s first President and a major figure in the nationalist movement.

Zik had charisma for days. If charisma were a currency, he’d be making Elon Musk look poor. Azikiwe was the guy who could walk into a room and would have everyone's attention in seconds. He was the Man.

He’s like that cool uncle who not only tells you stories about the good old days but was actually the star of those stories. His efforts were crucial in unifying a country bursting with diversity.

Nnamdi Azikiwe was as influential as a trending topic on Twitter. Everyone knew his name. Azikiwe is known for founding the West African Pilot, a militant newspaper used to fight colonialism and advance the quest for self government.

200 Naira Note
Sir Ahmadu Bello

This guy was the Sardauna of Sokoto, a big deal in Nigerian politics.

He was the Premier of Northern Nigeria and played a significant role in modernizing the Northern region.

He’s like the original Game of Thrones character, minus the dragons and drama. Bello was all about modernizing his region while maintaining cultural integrity. Think of him as a bridge between the old and the new, with a killer smile.

He's got that classic dignified look, like he just aced a job interview without breaking a sweat.

His smile is so contagious. Once you see it, you can’t help but smile back!

He’s like the wise grandpa everyone respects.
Bello was the guy making sure everyone stayed connected to their roots. It’s like having that one relative who insists on telling you the family tree at every reunion. You roll your eyes, but deep down, you appreciate it.

Unfortunately He was assassinated during the first military coup in Nigeria in 1966.

100 Naira Note
Chief Obafemi Awolowo

You see this serious-looking man? That’s Chief Obafemi Awolowo, often rocking those legendary round glasses.

This man wasn’t just a style icon. Oh no, he was a key figure in Nigeria’s independence movement, a trailblazer in education, and the man who essentially said, “Hey, free primary education for all!” He’s like the educational Santa Claus we all wish we had.

Awolowo is credited to have introduced free education in the Western region of Nigeria.

He was the type of politician who actually cared, which is rare these days.
He was like the Captain America of Nigerian politics. Always looking out for the little guy, making sure everyone had a chance to learn and grow. Awolowo was the kind of guy who’d make you feel guilty for not doing more with your life. “Look what I did! What’s your excuse?”

His sharp mind, symbolized by his iconic glasses, helped shape a brighter future for Nigeria

But these days, you need even sharper vision (or maybe a magnifying glass) to see how far 100 Naira can take you.

Okay now listen up. You there. Yes you come close. Closer. Listen In life you are going to make a lot of mistakes but don't ever make the mistake of letting your pastor see you drop N100 naira note in the offering box.

If not this is how he is going to look at you.

Opportuneke:
So you mean the Nigerian currency started from N5 🤷🏻‍♂️

Have you heard about 50kobo, N1 and N2? 🤔

You definitely must be a Gen z🧐

Not impressed at all 🥶

Thanks for your feedback.

My video focused on the Nigerian currency notes that are currently in circulation to keep it relevant and concise for viewers.

While it's true that 50 kobo, N1, and N2 were part of Nigeria’s currency history, they aren't used anymore, which is why I didn't include them but I appreciate you bringing this up, maybe it's worth exploring them in a future video on the evolution of Nigerian currency. Stay tuned!

50 Naira Note
Assorted Nigerian Ethnic Groups on the 50 Naira Note

The 50 naira note is as diverse as the Nigerian jollof rice—full of different ingredients, all delicious!

The 50 naira note is unique because it doesn't feature a single person. Instead, it’s like a group photo of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, highlighting major groups like the Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo. The woman in the group symbolizes the middle belt.

It’s like when you get your whole family together for a photo, and everyone actually looks happy. You know it’s rare, but when it happens, it’s magic.

The fifty naira note is a celebration of unity and togetherness.

But these days, unity might be the only thing a 50 Naira note can buy

Maybe if they all chipped in, they could collectively afford a bottle of Coke!
Just a thought. Sharing is caring, after all!

On the back of the note you’ve got a farmer, a fisherman, and a bunch of other everyday heroes.

It’s like Nigeria’s version of the Avengers, showing that every hardworking citizen contributes to the nation’s strength and diversity.

20 Naira Note
Murtala Mohammed

Murtala Mohammed was a general and head of state who left a big mark in a short time.

Think of him as Nigeria's Alexander the Great—came, saw, and conquered, all while looking dashing in a uniform. Murtala was all about action and no-nonsense leadership

Murtala didn’t mess around. He’s the guy you call when you need to get things done yesterday.

Check out his intense gaze—it’s almost like he can see right through your lame excuses!

As Nigeria’s Head of State from 1975 until his assassination in 1976, Murtala is remembered for his bold reforms and commitment to anti-corruption.

The busiest airport in Nigeria, located in Lagos, is also named after Murtala Mohammed.

Ready for some girl power? On the other side of the 20 Naira note, meet Ladi Kwali. Yes, that’s right, the only well-known woman featured on the Nigerian currency! Kwali was a potter whose works were so exquisite they made their way to international exhibitions.

She’s basically the Beyoncé of ceramics.
She took traditional Nigerian pottery to the global stage, proving that art can be both a cultural treasure and a ticket to worldwide acclaim.

10 Naira Note
Alvan Ikoku

Dr. Alvan Ikoku, the intellectual giant on the 10 Naira note, is known for his boundless knowledge.

Born in 1900, he was a prominent Nigerian educationist and politician.

Ikoku dedicated his life to improving education in Nigeria, founding the Aggrey Memorial College in 1932.

He was very active in the early fight against colonialism and British imperialism.

Look at his portrait—his high forehead is like a billboard for his big ideas.

This guy was an education crusader. He was like the Nigerian version of Oprah.

Except instead of giving out cars, he was out there handing out education. “You get an education! You get an education! Everybody gets an education!”

Dr. Ikoku knew that education was the key to everything, so he made it his mission to get kids off the streets and into classrooms. Can you imagine that today? People actually fighting to learn something? Crazy.

Maybe Dr. Ikoku, with his brilliant mind, could develop a new course titled "Economics 101: How to Survive on a 10 Naira Budget in Modern Nigeria."

Because these days it looks like his forehead is so broad that you can't even see what to buy with the 10 naira note again.

Full YouTube Script 👇🏽

5 Naira Note
Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa

Rush hour in Lagos and you're crammed into a sweaty bus, on your way home.

Suddenly, the bus screeches to a halt, and a stern-faced conductor blocks your path. You know that look.

"Owo da?" But then, a smooth voice cuts through the tension.

It's Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, on the 5 Naira note staring back at you with a charming smile.

He was Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister. At some point in his life, he also a teacher.
So it's kind of like if your high school principal decided to run the country.

Balewa was all about unity and education, which are pretty important if you're trying to keep a new nation from tearing itself apart.

His voice, legendary for its persuasive power, could talk his way out of anything.

He could even convince that grumpy conductor to give you a free ride... with a joke so funny it would leave everyone laughing out of their seats.

But here's the thing: these days, finding a 5 Naira note is harder than getting NEPA to bring back the light after a rain fall.

Maybe Tafawa Balewa's legendary voice could come in handy now

Imagine him on the radio, his voice smooth as butter, saying: "My fellow Nigerians, lend me your ears, and maybe a spare 5 Naira note if you have one lying around!"

If you need videos that explains things in a simple, understandable and funny way subscribe to my channel.

Check out my latest YouTube video where I explain every face on the Nigerian naira currency! It's a fascinating journey through history. 🇳🇬💰 Click here to watch:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHGEi-bh2Hw?si=hdHeB5MB_UJei1JB