Growing up in Nigeria is a unique experience filled with vibrant cultural practices, memorable activities, and shared community moments that leave a lasting impact. Here are some key elements that made childhood in Nigeria special
Outdoor Games and Play
- Suwe (Hopscotch): This game involved drawing a grid on the ground and hopping through it on one foot, trying to avoid the lines.
- Ten-Ten: A rhythmic clapping and footwork game, usually played by girls, where participants mirrored each other’s moves.
- Whot: A popular card game played by children and adults alike.
Cultural Festivals and Celebrations
- New Yam Festival: Celebrated in various regions, this festival marks the harvest of new yams and involves dancing, feasting, and cultural displays.
- Eid and Christmas Celebrations: These religious holidays were marked with special meals, new clothes, and visits to family and friends.
Traditional Foods and Snacks
- Puff-Puff: Sweet, deep-fried dough balls that were a favorite at parties and street stalls.
- Boli (Roasted Plantain): Often sold by the roadside, it was a delicious snack enjoyed with groundnuts or pepper sauce.
- Zobo and Kunu: These refreshing drinks made from hibiscus leaves and grains, respectively, were staples at social gatherings.
School Life and Activities
- Morning Assembly: Starting the school day with national anthems and prayers, instilling a sense of patriotism and discipline.
- Inter-House Sports Competitions: Schools held annual sports events where students competed in various athletic activities, fostering teamwork and school spirit.
- Pen Pal Letters: Writing letters to pen pals, often from different states or countries, was a common practice that encouraged communication and friendship.
Television and Radio Shows
- NTA Programs: Shows like “Tales by Moonlight,” “Super Story,” and “New Masquerade” were household favorites.
- Educational Programs: “Funmi Iyanda’s New Dawn” and other educational shows were both informative and entertaining.
- Radio Dramas: Programs like “Labe Orun” captivated listeners with engaging stories.
Folktales and Storytelling
- Moonlight Stories: Elders would gather children in the evenings to tell folktales, often with moral lessons and cultural teachings.
- Folklore Characters: Stories of the cunning Tortoise, wise stories of Anansi the Spider, and other mythical figures were part of the storytelling tradition.
Community and Family Bonds
- Extended Family Living: Growing up in a household with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins was common, providing a strong sense of community and support.
- Neighbourhood Friendships: Playing with neighbors’ children in the streets and forming lasting friendships was a significant part of childhood.
- Family Gatherings: Regular family gatherings during holidays and special occasions reinforced familial bonds and cultural heritage.
Unique School Uniforms
- Wearing distinct school uniforms that identified students’ schools and often came with a sense of pride and belonging.
These elements collectively created a rich and memorable childhood experience for many Nigerians, fostering a deep sense of cultural identity and community. The nostalgia for these times is a testament to the unique and vibrant upbringing that many experienced growing up in Nigeria.
