The Nigerian experience by Jaouad Rahou

“Still in Nigeria?” I hear that question often — sometimes with surprise, other times with a knowing smirk, and occasionally, quiet concern. And honestly? I understand why they ask. From the outside, Nigeria can seem overwhelming. Loud. Unpredictable. Inflation. But living here? It’s intense. It’s vibrant. And it’s unforgettable. Over time, it’s grown on me — not because it’s easy, but because it’s alive. Because in all its contradictions, Nigeria feels more human than anywhere I’ve ever known. Here’s my honest answer: 1. People say “Sorry” even when you hurt yourself. 2.“Good morning” expires at exactly 12:00pm — and you’ll be corrected if you miss the cutoff. 3.Rain ruins plans? Just get through it. 4.Anyone can turn into a motivational speaker — no prep needed. 5. One event, two prayers: Muslim to open, Christian to close. Peaceful, respectful, seamless 6. Everyone disagrees — politics, religion, football — and still shares a plate of jollof. 7.“Happy New Month” is a real thing — and so is “Happy New Week,” “Happy Friday,” and “Happy Sunday.” Every day deserves celebration. 8.“Now-now” is a valid timeframe. 9.Make plans, then say “God will do it.” 10.“I’m on my way” = still brushing teeth. 11.Weddings = 1,000 guests and 10 outfit changes. 12.Titles matter. Your gateman might be called “Chief Security Officer” — and that one-man IT guy? “Chief Technology Officer.” 13.Loud music = joy. Silence = something’s wrong. 14.Plantain is therapy. 15.People smile through what would break others. 16.Lagos traffic is a spiritual experience. You’ll reflect, pray, and question your life choices — all before the next intersection. 17. Kids greet like royalty: “Good afternoon, sir.” 18.Tailor lied. You knew. You still gave fabric 19.“How far?” means everything. 20. You can’t be lonely. Even strangers will call you “my guy” before they ask your name. 21.Puff puff = edible stress relief. 22.“E go better.” And we believe it. 23. Everyone has a side hustle. Your Uber driver is also a real estate agent. The pharmacist rents out canopies on weekends. And your mechanic? He trades forex between engine checks. 24. Gospel + afrobeats + fuji? DJs do it all. 25. “How’s mummy? Your leg?” is one greeting. 26. RSVP is optional. Takeaway is not. 27. WhatsApp groups = 100 unread messages by 6am. 28. Markets = real-world MBA. 29. “Almost there” = just started dressing. 30.Businesses run from car trunks — successfully. 31.“10am sharp” is a suggestion. 32.We don’t swear — we say “You’re playing with your destiny.” 33. One meeting = new “brother from another mother” 34.Dress code: Overdress or stay home. 35.“Let’s catch up soon” = next year. 36. Google Maps fails. Okada guy delivers. 37.Wearing white in rainy season? Bold. 38. Someone’s aunty dreamt about you. Take it seriously. 39.Even bad news comes with gist. 40. Football is religion. Premier League is Sunday service. Win? eruption. Lose? “I’m done with this club”… till next weekend. And you, what make you love Nigeria?

Poor Billionaires exist

In middle school science, what I was taught about Matter is basically that it is anything that has weight and occupy space. I had to navigate adulthood to realize this definition is DEEPLY POOR. Part of my clarity (learnt in deep misery) is the truth that most humans actually live in the prison of matter—the ownership of things; because people are so poor all they have is money. I grew to understand that poor billionaires exist, languishing in the pettiness and smallness of having plenty outside and nothing inside. In a world obsessed with symbols of success—labels, possessions, titles—we often forget that existence itself does not derive its credibility from things, but from meaning. Those who miss this weighty idea will forever be in hustle-mode, chasing reflections of worth all their life, and never experiencing true worth. Having a lot of money in the process, yet lacking meaning. Meaning, in this sense, is the intrinsic alignment of one’s existence with a purpose beyond mere survival or accumulation. It is the substance that transcends fleeting validations, anchoring a person in a reality that is not dictated by external forces but by an internal coherence of values, purpose, and depth; and meaning is sure not a trophy to be acquired. It is not about having or owning; but a state of being—a spiritually-defined, evolving narrative that shapes one’s actions, relationships, and legacy. It is what remains when titles fade, possessions decay, and recognition dissolves. I know now that the entities who define their existence from within, carving purpose beyond the material, sooner or later ascends beyond struggle into scale. They know the external world is so fickle, it elevates today and abandons tomorrow. To define strength from the outside-in is to hand over your soul to forces indifferent to its depth. True power begins in the unseen—the conviction, the clarity, the unwavering alignment of one’s being with something beyond possession. From this place, even a whisper moves mountains. That’s real FAITH. Never forget that those who build their identity upon things will forever be vulnerable to their loss. I FEAR NOTHING. I OWN NOTHING..but I AM🙏🏽 Shalom💫✨(Excerpt: Olakunle Soriyan)

Subsidy Removal the positives and negative effects on the Nigerian economy

Understanding Petroleum Subsidization Petroleum subsidization refers to government intervention in the fuel market to reduce the cost of petroleum products for consumers by covering part of the price difference between the market price and the pump price. This is done to make fuel more affordable, stabilize transportation costs, and support economic activities. In Nigeria, the government historically subsidized petrol prices, ensuring that citizens paid below the actual market rate. This policy aimed to reduce the cost of living, support businesses, and prevent inflationary pressures caused by high fuel prices. Actions Taken in the Removal of Petroleum Subsidy in Nigeria Over time, the Nigerian government faced huge fiscal burdens due to subsidy payments. In May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the removal of fuel subsidies, citing unsustainable government expenditure and corruption in the subsidy system. The major actions taken include: Immediate Removal of Subsidy – Fuel prices surged from around N197 per liter to over N500 per liter, later reaching above N600 in some locations. Deregulation of the Petroleum Market – Market forces now determine fuel prices rather than government control. Increased Fuel Importation by Private Sector – Private companies are now responsible for fuel importation, ending NNPC's monopoly. Government Efforts to Cushion the Impact – Initiatives such as the palliative funds, salary adjustments, and mass transit support programs were introduced to ease economic hardships. Economic Effects of Subsidy Removal in Nigeria The removal of petroleum subsidies has had significant economic consequences, both positive and negative: Positive Effects:  Reduction in Government Expenditure – Freed up resources that were previously spent on subsidies (estimated at $10 billion annually).  Attraction of Foreign Investment – A more liberalized market encourages private investment in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector.  Reduced Smuggling – Subsidized fuel was often smuggled to neighboring countries close to us from Calabar; removal curbed this illegal activity.  Incentive for Local Refining – Companies like Dangote Refinery and modular refineries are more viable now as prices reflect actual production costs. Negative Effects: • Soaring Inflation and Cost of Living – Higher fuel prices led to increased transportation costs, food prices, and general inflation. • Increased Hardship for Citizens – Many Nigerians struggle with affordability as the price of goods and services skyrockets. • Higher Production Costs for Businesses – Industries relying on fuel for operations face higher operational costs, leading to potential job losses. • Transport Sector Crisis – Public transportation and logistics costs have significantly increased, affecting daily commutes and business logistics. Conclusion Petroleum subsidy removal in Nigeria was necessary for fiscal stability but came with short-term economic hardship. While it may promote long-term economic growth, it requires proper policy measures such as investment in public transportation, local refining capacity, and targeted social welfare programs to cushion the effects on vulnerable citizens.