My Naija trip.(?? Nigeria)

This was an eye opening, incredibly fun but insane trip. My girl  Omobonike was getting married in Naija. I decided it was time (27 years have passed) and I was going. Inbound trip with about 25 American brothers and sisters  on Delta was awesome. Shout out to my girl’s ground team and security head Marvin. They pretty much made sure everything we needed was taken care of. After the wedding I explored many tourist and local spots.

Fun facts about Lagos.

1. Traffic is beyond crazy! Whatever you think is traffic in NYC, it’s nothing compared to Naija.
2. Money talks and BS walks here. Make sure you always have small notes with you as you will be bribing and tipping at all points. Just shut up n pay.
3. Exchange rate is about 1 USD to 340-362 Naira depending on the market. You will have a stack but that stack will disappear swiftly.
4. Naija peeeppuul love their brew shaaaaaa Kai! We can drink oooh!??
5. Island vs Mainland you gotta learn the difference.
6. Classism is very very real. I was complaining about Singapore last year? I will just shut up now. Naija has no comparison.
7. The wealth gap is epic. Simply put, we have stupidly rich, rich and poor there is no middle class.
8. Food is flavorful, spicy, relatively cheap and truly organic.
9. No Starbucks franchise so bring your instant packs or drink Nescafe instant locally.
10. Street food is king. My rule is if it’s straight off the fire, out of hot oil or a boiling pot I’m eating. Stay away from foods in show glasses especially if you have a weak stomach or IBS.
11. Pepto and Imodium are your friends always carry.
12. If you are sensitive to smells get ready for a funkfest assault on your lungs. The pungent smell of high humidity sweat will literally make you feel light headed.
13. Get someone you trust to take you to landmarks and open markets. Do not attempt on your own! You ain’t ready.
14. Culture is everywhere, so enjoy it and ask questions. People will share history and school you happily.
15. Soda = minerals so just ask for sprite coke etc. I could not find ginger ale to save my life.
16. Hotel chains like Hilton and Sheraton 4 points are available on the island. There are villa rentals for groups and Airbnb. I stayed in an amazing villa with friends, four points and then a fabulous Airbnb at Eko Atlantic.
17. Get a car and driver or use Uber. Please do not attempt to get a rental and drive around. Trust me you ain’t ready for the level of aggressive, savage driving that Naija requires.
18. Not all bottled water is good for you. Stick to nestle or the brands you see at a major hotel chains.
19. At the airport heading back be prepared to grease palms especially if you have food stuff coming back.
20. You can and will have a blast in Naija. Don’t let security concerns or media propaganda keep you. I was asked many times will you come back? HELL TO THE YEAH!

Oh and in case there’s any doubt? I REP NAIJA FOR LIFE, TILL THE CASKET DROPS!!.