This is my country

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This Is My Country

Introduction

There is a certain pride that comes with introducing yourself and adding, “I am a Nigerian.” For some, it may sound like just a name on a map, but for me, Nigeria is far more than that. This is my country a land so diverse, so rich in history, culture, and people, that no short sentence can ever do it justice. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the rolling hills of Obudu, Nigeria is a canvas of wonders, sometimes messy, sometimes chaotic, but always vibrant and full of life.

Where We Are

Nigeria, my dear country, sits proudly on the western coast of Africa, sharing borders with Cameroon, Niger, Chad, and Benin Republic, with the Atlantic Ocean kissing its southern edges. It is home to over 200 million people who speak hundreds of languages, carrying on traditions passed down through countless generations. That alone is remarkable imagine a place where Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Ibibio, Kanuri, Tiv, and so many others live side by side, each adding their own colours to the great tapestry of Nigerian identity

Iconic Places

Lagos

Lagos, often called the “Centre of Excellence,” is where you see Nigeria’s unstoppable energy on full display. It is Africa’s largest city and probably one of the busiest, but that is the beauty of Lagos it never sleeps. From the towering skyline of Victoria Island to the cultural pulse of the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos is a world of its own. Places like Lekki Conservation Centre showcase our love for nature, with its canopy walkway that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest. And of course, no talk of Lagos is complete without its beaches Elegushi, Tarkwa Bay, Oniru places where Nigerians gather to dance, laugh, and share roasted fish under the sunset.

Abuja

Then there is Abuja, our capital city, carefully planned and beautifully laid out with broad roads and grand architecture. The Aso Rock rises like a silent guardian over the city, while the National Mosque and National Christian Centre stand proudly, reminding us of the unity we strive for in our diversity. Millennium Park is where families go to relax on weekends, and Jabi Lake is the perfect place to take in the city’s calm side.

Kano

If you travel up north, you cannot ignore the ancient city of Kano, with its centuries-old dye pits where indigo cloth is still made the traditional way. Kano’s city walls, dating back to the 14th century, tell stories of kingdoms that once ruled proudly. The Emir’s Palace is another place steeped in history and tradition, keeping alive the customs of one of Nigeria’s greatest Hausa kingdoms.

Enugu

In the east, Enugu, known as the “Coal City,” reflects the industrial spirit of Nigeria. Near it, you find the breathtaking Ngwo Pine Forest, a natural wonder with caves and a waterfall that spark amazement in every visitor.

Calabar

Further south, Calabar in Cross River State is where history meets hospitality. The city hosts the Calabar Carnival, the biggest street party in Africa, attracting people from every corner of the continent. If you think Nigeria lacks scenic beauty, head to Obudu Cattle Ranch with its rolling mountains, cool weather, and a cable car that seems to float over a green paradise.

Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt, the oil city, is another powerhouse. It is not just about petroleum, though the city has a vibrant arts scene and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet.

Ibadan

Meanwhile, in the southwest, Ibadan stands tall with its university one of the oldest in Africa and Cocoa House, a monument to the region’s agricultural heritage.

Our Food

No journey through Nigeria would be complete without talking about our food. Nigerians love to eat, and we eat with pride. Jollof rice, of course, is the king of the table no party is ever complete without it. Then there is pounded yam and egusi soup, suya sizzling on hot coals at night, akara frying in the morning, pepper soup that clears your nose in one sip, and the legendary Afang, Ogbono, and Edikang Ikong soups. Our food is a language on its own, full of flavour and soul.

The Nigerian Spirit

Besides the places and the food, what makes Nigeria truly stand out is its people. Nigerians are some of the most resilient, talented, and creative human beings you will ever meet. Despite all our challenges and yes, we have plenty we find ways to smile, laugh, and push forward.

Our music has conquered the world, with Afrobeats filling dance floors from Lagos to London. Our writers Chinua Achebe, Chimamanda Adichie, Wole Soyinka have given the world stories that live forever. Our athletes shine on the global stage, our entrepreneurs break new grounds, and our youth continue to find new ways to innovate.

Of course, Nigeria is not perfect. We have our struggles with insecurity, corruption, poor infrastructure, and a political class that often disappoints. But I believe in my country, because every day I see ordinary Nigerians who refuse to give up. People who wake up early, hustle hard, and carry a dream for a better tomorrow.

The Beauty Beyond

From the festivals that fill our calendar to the historic sites like the Ogbunike Caves, the Zuma Rock in Niger State, the Erin Ijesha Waterfalls in Osun, the Ogbomosho Palace in Oyo, Nigeria is dotted with places that speak of resilience and beauty. Our languages, our dances, our fashion think of the colourful Ankara prints, the flowing agbada, the beaded regalia of the Igbo chiefs these are symbols of who we are.

My Love for Nigeria

At the end of the day, Nigeria is my home. I carry its sounds in my heart, from the blaring horns of Lagos danfos to the drumming of the talking drum at village festivals. I carry its sights in my mind, from the red earth roads of the east to the green fields of the middle belt. And I carry its hopes on my shoulders, because like many Nigerians, I still believe that one day, our nation will rise to its greatest heights.

This is my country Nigeria and no matter what happens, I will never stop loving it.

I may not have beautiful pictures of my country especially that of our dishes but what I know is Nigeria is a beautiful place and I love being a Nigerian

Inviting @ukpono @samuellbrilliant @peachyladiva