The Love Of A Nigerian! By Ogigbah Esiri
Nigeria; home to over 190 million people, 250 ethnic groups and twice as many languages, is by far the most populated African nation. Naturally the diversity should engender disparity amongst Nigerians, but the reverse is the case as Nigerians have proved that truly there can be unity in diversity. In most big cities in Nigeria it is common to find people from all over the nation and even foreigners present and living together with no form of discrimination. This is perhaps more alarming considering the fact that Nigeria is going through what some would call a dark age, characterized by; a dwindling economy, genocides, increased mortality, rising crime rate, fraudulent activities and many more unfavorable realities. In the midst of the chaos, corruption and poverty, Nigerians have shown time and again that they are indeed a hospitable, patient and well meaning people. Even the somewhat lax security in the nation hasn’t been able to stop the arrival of tourists and foreigners. What then is it that makes Nigeria welcoming? What is it that attracts many to this great nation? Surely, it is not the tourist attractions or employment opportunities, neither is it the standard of living in the nation, because many countries surpass Nigeria in these aspects. Then, it must be the people. What is it about Nigerians that makes them different? What genuinely makes Nigerians kind and cooperative? What makes Nigerians tolerant and well-meaning towards one another and humanity today?