What Happened to the Nigerian Hospitality?
Nigeria has long been synonymous with warmth and generosity, the kind of hospitality that makes a visitor feel like family. There was the culture of offering water to weary travelers or neighbors looking out for one another, the essence of “African hospitality” was once inseparable from our identity. But today, many are questioning: is that spirit fading away?
In cities like Lagos, the decline is particularly evident. The hustle and bustle of urban life seems to leave little room for kindness. Bus conductors shout at passengers over change, service in restaurants feels cold and transactional, and the once-common practice of sharing a smile with strangers has become rare. People are quick to blame the fast-paced lifestyle, but could there be deeper factors at play?
Economic challenges have pushed many Nigerians into a survival mode. With inflation on the rise, insecurity looming, and unemployment widespread, the focus has shifted from community to individual survival. In this climate, hospitality feels like a luxury some can no longer afford.
Another factor is mistrust. Stories of scams and crime have made people more cautious. A stranger at your door no longer inspires the instinct to invite them in but raises questions of safety. This erosion of trust has built walls where bridges used to stand.
Yet, even in these challenging times, glimpses of the old Nigeria remain. Market women still offer discounts with a laugh, neighbors still share power during blackouts, and some families still insist on feeding you even if they have little to spare. These moments remind us that Nigerian hospitality isn’t entirely lost—it’s simply struggling to thrive under the weight of modern pressures.
The question we must ask ourselves is: how do we revive it? Perhaps it begins with small, intentional acts of kindness. A smile. A helping hand. A conversation that reminds us we’re all in this together. After all, our hospitality is more than just tradition it’s a reflection of who we are as a people.
