Navigating the rich and complex social landscape of Nigeria requires more than just good intentions. Based on extensive research and years of observation, understanding the critical do's and don'ts is essential for building genuine connections, avoiding serious offence, and ensuring safety while enjoying what this remarkable nation offers.
Understanding What is Considered Disrespectful in Nigeria
The most significant mistake foreigners make is underestimating the importance of age hierarchies. In Nigerian society, age commands automatic respect, irrespective of professional or economic status. Addressing someone significantly older by their first name without permission is considered shockingly rude. Instead, use titles like "Uncle," "Auntie," "Sir," "Ma," or professional honorifics.
Greeting protocols are paramount. In Yoruba culture, young men prostrate fully before elders, while women kneel. Igbo customs involve slight bows or specific hand positions. Failing to greet an elder properly brands one as having "no home training," a severe character judgment. According to the Federal Ministry of Justice, respect for traditional authority remains embedded in constitutional principles.
Using your left hand for social interactions is deeply offensive across most cultures, as it is traditionally considered unclean. Always eat, pass items, and shake hands with your right hand. Furthermore, refusing food or drink from a host is often seen as rejecting their hospitality and goodwill. It is polite to accept at least a small portion.
Publicly questioning elders or discussing personal finances directly is also frowned upon. Nigerian society values public harmony and face-saving over public correction, and inquiries about salary are considered crass.
A Practical Framework for Social Success
Success in Nigeria hinges on understanding and applying key social customs. First, master basic greetings in major languages like Yoruba (“E kaaro”), Igbo (“Kedu”), and Hausa (“Sannu”). Always greet the eldest person first and never rush the process.
Gift-giving is a valued gesture. When visiting homes, bring items like fruit, wine, or sweets. The thought matters more than the value. Always accept gifts graciously. Dress conservatively, especially in Northern Nigeria where Islamic customs prevail. Traditional attire is always appropriate for important occasions.
Dining etiquette has specific rules. Wait for elders to start eating, use only your right hand, and eat only from the section of a communal dish directly in front of you. Leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate you are satisfied; cleaning your plate may suggest the host did not provide enough.
Be mindful of religious sensibilities, avoid scheduling meetings during prayer times, and respect Ramadan. Understand that "African time" applies more to social events, while business meetings in major cities increasingly follow punctual schedules. Crucially, build relationships before transactions. Nigerians prefer doing business with people they know and trust, so invest time in personal connection.
Legal Framework and Regional Variations
Nigeria operates a hybrid legal system combining English common law, customary law, Islamic Sharia law (in Northern states for personal matters), and statutory law. The Constitution is the supreme law. Key legal realities for visitors include severe penalties for drug offences, the illegality of corruption despite its prevalence, and strict enforcement of immigration rules.
Cultural practices vary dramatically by region:
Southwest (Yoruba): Greetings involve prostration (men) or kneeling (women). Respect for chiefs and royalty is paramount.
Southeast (Igbo): Greetings involve slight bows and specific titles. There is a strong emphasis on achievement and title-taking.
North (Hausa-Fulani): Conservative dress codes and gender separation are observed. Islamic practices like Friday prayers and Ramadan are strictly respected.
South-South & Middle Belt: Diverse ethnic groups have unique greetings and strong community structures. Abuja, as the capital, presents a more cosmopolitan mix.
Core Values and Safety Considerations
Section 23 of the Constitution enshrines seven national ethics: Discipline, Integrity, Dignity of Labour, Social Justice, Religious Tolerance, Self-Reliance, and Patriotism. These represent societal aspirations, though a gap often exists between these values and everyday reality.
Safety requires vigilance. Security situations vary: the Northeast faces insurgency, the Northwest deals with banditry, and the Southeast has separatist violence. Kidnapping for ransom is a nationwide concern. Avoid predictable routines and displays of wealth.
Road traffic accidents are a major hazard due to poor conditions and reckless driving. Scams targeting foreigners are sophisticated; verify all business deals independently. Health risks like malaria are prevalent—take prophylaxis and drink only bottled water. Be prepared for occasional solicitations for bribes; the safest approach is to politely insist on proper procedures.
Ultimately, navigating Nigeria comes down to three principles: respect hierarchy, value relationships over transactions, and maintain humility. Nigerians are remarkably warm and generous to those who show genuine respect for their culture. Start with curiosity, learn from mistakes, and engage with this dynamic society meaningfully.
