There are many opinions about Nigeria and her people, which unfortunately affect our perception of Africa’s largest economy and boy are we misinformed! I’ve learned through experience to not believe all you hear instead take time to learn more for yourself.

This #CashlessAfrica journey affords me the a great opportunity to visit 33 countries advocating for digital payments for financial inclusion, and Nigeria is where I’ve gone most for obvious reasons. I’ve had the privilege of visiting six times this year going to the vibrant Lagos, organized and laid back Abuja, chaotic Port Harcourt and the world famous (at least it must be) Aba. In spite the sometimes difficult immigration process, which varies depending on which airport you enter through, ALL the immigration officers have been welcoming. It is my hope the Government of Nigeria makes the visa process painless and all officers well informed of changes to ensure visitors have a good welcome. I say this because on numerous occasions I entered through Lagos with approval letter once, only to get to Abuja and be almost denied entry because I didn’t have an approval letter. Happy to offer a free consultation as a frequent visitor:-).

My first visit to Lagos last November was overwhelming, and I must admit it was mostly so because of all the stories I have heard. I was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming immigration, especially since I’d gone through the trouble of getting a visa approval letter before arrival, only to be told I didn’t need it. Everyone was friendly and my Rwandan passport made for good conversation.

Nigerians keep it real and it is what I appreciate most. In many a spirited conversation it is done with no hard feelings, we have a good laugh and in the end we go out and enjoy a good time. I don’t know many places where this is the case.

Nigeria gets a bad rap and many think it is a dangerous place to be. I certainly was guilty of thinking like this and was always looking over my shoulder. Now I’m not claiming it is all good, but my experience has been great! In fact on several occasions saw runners near and after midnight. Tested this my self on a happy Friday night and it was great to experience a calm Lagos. The night life is super exciting, something you should endeavor to experience when you visit.

This picture was taken at Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge way after midnight 😆.

Last but certainly NOT least, there’s Aba in Abia State, a place every African business owner in Fashion and Accessories, and really ANYTHING, should know about. You can get a FANTASTIC custom suit made in a matter of hours. Aba deserves it’s own write-up but needless to say I believe that when Africa Continent Free Trade Agreement is all said and done, most will be flying to Aba instead of outside Africa to buy consumer goods.

Be sure to put #VisitNigeria on your list of places to go soon, like me, you may be pleasantly surprised in many ways. Hope to meet you there or hear of your experience one of these days.