Ten (10) Things Nigeria Excels At Compared to the Rest of the World

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and the seventh most populous country in the world. Its capital is Abuja, while Lagos, its largest city, is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Nigeria is known for its diverse cultures, languages, and ethnic groups, as well as its significant contributions to arts, music, and literature.

Even though we are far from flawless, Nigeria, dubbed “the giant of Africa,” excels in several areas compared to other African nations or countries. Despite facing significant obstacles, Nigeria is actually far ahead of many other African nations.

Our vibrant entertainment industry and economic growth, Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa highlight our strengths. Nigerians possess a unique vibrancy and dramatic flair that make us hard to ignore. There’s something distinctive about us that sets us apart from the rest.

Ten (10) Things Nigeria Excels At Compared to the Rest of the World

1. Traditional Weddings

Traditional weddings in Nigeria are a vibrant, cultural experience that occur frequently, with elders often pressuring singles into marriage by age thirty. These ceremonies are celebrated with lavish food, stunning attire, lively music, and dynamic dance routines, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria’s nearly 250 ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has its unique wedding traditions, making these events a quintessential part of Nigerian life. To truly experience Nigeria, attending a traditional wedding is a must.

2. Taking Advantage of “Go Slows” (Traffic Jams)

Traffic jams, or “go slows,” are a common part of life on Nigeria’s roads. However, they present an opportunity rather than an inconvenience. Street vendors capitalize on these traffic delays, offering a variety of goods, from socks and handkerchiefs to oil paintings, books, and fresh produce. Simply roll down your window and make your purchases without leaving your car.

3. Nigerians Making Money from Everyday Tasks

Nigerians are known for their resilience and resourcefulness, thriving in various fields worldwide. From humble beginnings, many Nigerians rise to prominence through hard work and dedication, living by the motto, “No condition is permanent.” This relentless pursuit of excellence and determination to make a difference characterizes the Nigerian spirit.

4. Business Development

Nigerians excel in business, driving innovation and establishing successful ventures across diverse industries, including technology and entertainment. The country’s strong business culture and entrepreneurial spirit contribute to its status as Africa’s economic powerhouse. Nigerian business practices are marked by creativity, resilience, and the ability to forge strong relationships with investors and partners both locally and internationally.

5. Eating Chicken to the Bone

When it comes to food, Nigerians are masters at making the most of every bite, especially with chicken. It’s not enough to just eat the meat; Nigerians crack the bones to extract the marrow and grind them down until nothing is left. Properly eating chicken in Nigeria means leaving no trace behind, a testament to the nation’s resourcefulness and appreciation for food.

6. Living Life to Its Fullest

Nigerians balance cultural traditions with a modern, carefree approach to life. They embrace technology, cars, parties, and networking, fully aware that life is to be enjoyed. This zest for life extends even to funerals, which often turn into lively celebrations of the deceased’s life, highlighting the Nigerian penchant for living life to its fullest.

7. Real Survivors

Nigerians are known for their ability to thrive anywhere in the world, from New York to London. Whether selling CDs on the streets or excelling in professional fields, Nigerians adapt and succeed in diverse environments, even under challenging economic conditions. This adaptability and resilience make Nigerians unique and respected globally.

8. Hopefulness

Despite political and economic challenges, Nigerians remain some of the most optimistic people in the world. They pursue opportunities with determination and faith, often considering themselves “temporarily embarrassed millionaires.” This positive attitude is evident in the nation’s business mentality and the pervasive belief in divine intervention and future success.

9. Nollywood Films

Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, is one of the largest in the world, producing numerous films that contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP. Known for their rapid production and sometimes modest quality, Nollywood films offer engaging stories that reflect Nigerian values and societal complexities. These films enjoy widespread popularity across Africa, providing viewers with a glimpse into Nigeria’s vibrant culture and vernacular.

10. Work Hard, Play Hard

Nigerians epitomize the “work hard, play hard” ethos. They are known for their intelligence, efficiency, and ability to achieve excellent results with innovative shortcuts. While some myths about Nigerians’ shortcut-taking might hold a grain of truth, their dedication to hard work and upward mobility is undeniable. Nigerians enjoy both their labor and leisure, making the most of every opportunity to advance and celebrate life.