An Overview of my Nigerian background: (I used this as an essay in college app)
My best memories are my childhood and teenage years while in Nigeria, one of the most diverse countries in Africa by culture and ethnicity. I grew up during the relatively political unstable times in the country, as military and dictatorial regimes instigated major activities in the early 2000s. However, the hectic times did not prevent children from having a good time in any way. Nigerians believe that one hand does not nurse a child and that the responsibility to raise a child belongs to the whole community. Hence, the values instilled in me were from diverse perspectives but led to a common goal. Some of my neighbors would acknowledge a concern that my biological parents would have failed to see, while my relatives, neighbors, and church members would always be on the lookout. Thus, discipline always and in all places was unquestionable.
Although most Nigerians are below par in terms of their financial and economic statuses, they are lively and warm towards each other and to visitors. Resilience, determination and strong will to make ends meet while still helping each other is a true character of Nigerians at heart. My parents would have us say gratitude prayers each morning, a culture that I will instill in my future family. Such cheerfulness and enthusiasm carries Nigerians through long, tough days of toil and labor. A common Nigerian saying states that “I no go carry last,” which means that I refuse to be a victim of circumstance. The attitude instilled in me by my Nigerian culture helps me adapt to different situations and circumstances in life with a positive spirit.
On every street and avenue within Nigeria, Nigerian cultural music fills the air. In every household, screens play the worldwide-acknowledged Nigerian Nollywood movies. The music and movie industry shaped a great part of my life. I listen to different music genres playing on the radio, but I believe in the level of creativity and professionalism that Nigerian musicians exhibit. I still proudly associate with this music and often use it as background music for some of my computer programming projects.
Furthermore, the Nigerian culture is intertwined with love for football. The game serves to unify every Nigerian across the diverse tribal, cultural, political, and religious lines. During major football tournaments like The World Cup, people crowd the streets and markets to watch games together. As young kids, we would commune at one of the neighbor’s house to watch the game. Afterwards, older adults would share their experiences of how they survived the Nigerian Civil War in those days, and how they learnt about some of the African beliefs with younger people.
Additionally, school meant that we would interact with students from diverse cultures, and I learnt how to accommodate different people and cultures while at school. Beyond the classroom, it would not be strange to see students carrying farm tools to school. After school, we would go to work in the school gardens or assist our teachers in their homes. At the time, it was my least favorite thing to do because I thought that it was unfair of our parents to expect us to work at home and school. However, when I look back, I recognize the value that they inculcated in us: to work not only for our good but for the good of everyone around us.
Worst aspects: Police harassment of youths/teenagers daily, terrorism in Northern Nigeria (Boko Haram), Corruption, Kidnappings.
DIsclaimer: Nigeria was supercool during my childhood years. Unlike now, it's bad :-(