Ten reasons I still live in Nigeria

I am pretty much amazed by those who are obsessed with leaving Nigeria. Thing is, I am not one of those and I do not begrudge those who want to leave or send their kids away in the name of education. I have heard it said that it is either I am too poor or I am used to hard life but y’ all know it’s a matter of choice, right? Right! So, let’s begin to state the many reasons I would rather stay and build where I can.

1) I miss the Nigerian ambience. Broken as some parts of us are, I like the fact that our sense of humour is incredibly rich. Can’t trade it for any dry western humour.

2) I like the fact that any issue in my children’s school or at my workspace is not based on race. We are all the same colour. You know right? The other discriminatory demons, we will continue to fight.

3) I love Suya, Amala, Gbegiri and Masa. Maybe available abroad, but not quite the same.

4) I love our markets. The long-time no sees of friends you have not seen in a while that you run into. The fact that our traders’ shop from all over the world, the fruits, the vegetables, live chicken that’s tasty and catfish straight from the water and just look at the tomatoes.

5) I love the fact that my friends’ homes are a whistle-stop from me and my family is just around the corner even if it’s two hours by road. And that I am permanently invited to eat. Out there they tell you they were not expecting you and everyone has become cold and distant.

6) I worry that my kids may decide to divorce me or become strangers and turn up their noses on your home while thinking you are local and old fashion.