Nigerian City Lagos and the Country’s Cultures

Talk of Nigeria in the street and the discussions over ethnic violence, political instability, corruption and crime start. Inevitably, the country has a serious image problem yet there is a lot to cover it up and get the travelers set out to explore it. The fact that Nigerian performing arts, visual arts, music and literature have extended their boundaries across the continents cannot be ignored. Thus in spite of the widely popular sick stories, many travelers book their flights to Lagos, the main entry point to the country.

Having dominated West Africa with its cultural heritage and vibrancy, Nigeria is all set to take its talents beyond the bulge of African continent. Enter the city of Lagos to experience the cosmopolitan party life. The concerts, art exhibitions, film festivals and fashion events are there to take the tourists with their vibe. Festivals originating from native ethnicities complete the African trends of the city. Luxury shopping malls, five star restaurants, nightclubs, bars and discos complete the acculturation process in the city, adding the European touch. Head on to Abuja and find an African city but with 4-lane paved roads, world class architecture, sophistication, good security and cleanliness-something relatively uncommon to the continent. The port cities of Calabar and Port Harcourt are two scenic locations and a choice for travelers who are looking for tranquility during holidays. The oldest city of West Africa, Kano is situated in Nigeria and, of course, not to be missed.

From the desert cities of North dominating Islamic lifestyle to the unnaturally African primate city of Abuja in the center and old customs still seen alive further south, Nigeria is abound with cultural wealth. The most interesting part of southern Nigeria remains the brass sculptures skillfully crafted by the locals for worship. For first timers to Africa, especially those from the first world, it might be a bit difficult to get used to the local standards, traffic, roads and cleanliness. However, it tactfully handled, a trip to Nigeria would be mind blowing.

Local food remains another reason for diplomats to pack their bags and get on a Lagos flight. Nigeria is the land of some delectable recipes, highly appreciated by foreigners. For nationals of those countries where spices are lesser consumed, some Nigerian foods might be too hot while the rest would be perfect to munch on. The key ingredients are spices, herbs and food flavorings prepared in desired ways and fried with palm oil or groundnut oil. The secret to this mouth watering cookery, however, remains the sauces and gravies that are served with almost every dish. The love for food of Nigerians has brought event barbecue items and roasted chicken to be sold in every corner of the country, while stews and soups remain staple diets. Jollof Rice, Iyan, Isu and Greens Stew are some of the worth trying dishes.

Chinese, Indian, French, Italian and American restaurants are plentiful in the country to help rather undiplomatic travelers. Moreover, museums, art galleries, archeological sites, events and festivities are there to keep tourists busy during holiday. Since Nigeria is a developing country, cheap flights to Lagos are easily available which travelers can cash and check out the country’s exuberant side.