Nigerians, join me on this nostalgic trip.
Do you ever find yourself longing for the days when life was much simpler?
Yesterday, on the way home, I found myself reminiscing on the old days.
Remember,
- “Street ball fever”
Can you hear it? That “Gooooaaaal!” echoing through the neighbourhood?
Growing up in Nigeria, I realized pretty early that there was a special love for “football’.
From the busiest cities to the quietest villages, football was adored.
I recall watching dusty streets magically transform into impromptu soccer fields, where barefooted, joyful players — mostly guys — chased dreams and soccer balls.
2. Whispers of Harmattan:
I literally have no idea why Harmattan is no longer a thing.
Back then, when harmattan winds swept Nigeria, it meant cold, hazy mornings, which automatically meant you got to wear your favourite sweater to school.
Staring at the dewy mountains and writing on car windows on my way to school was my favourite activity.
3. “Sundays”
I can’t quite explain what was so unique about Sundays.
From daddy making a fuss and driving off to church without us because we were taking too long to get ready
To seeing my favorite church friends,
To the eventual Sunday lunch of rice and stew and bonus package of a sweet, short sunday afternoon nap.
There was just everything to love about the feeling.
These days, Sundays seem… bland.
4. Delicious memories.
I can still remember the tantalizing aroma of suya dancing through the evening air and the sweet, familiar sound of the ice cream seller’s bell, My childhood was flavoured with delicious memories.
I would get excited to go out with my mom to the market, just to taste that sweet puff-puff she usually buys on the way back.
One day in 2008, my dad had dropped me off at school.
I remember grinning so hard at the 200 naira note in my hand. He had given my siblings and me wayyy more than my Mom usually did.
Needless to say, that day, I was respected in the class because I bought everyone the school’s most popular snack.
5. Rainy day adventures.
Rainy days in Nigeria were not just about staying dry.
They were about embracing the gift of rain with open arms.
The thought of dancing in the rain, splashing in puddles, and the all to familiar sound of raindrops hitting the roof.
What about that sweet scent of the wet ground that just turns my insides in a good way. The smell of rain is just too stimulating.
“Embrace the Nostalgia”
Oh, how I miss those simpler times.
As you read this, I hope you’re smiling, remembering your own cherished moments.
These memories are not just moments at a point in our lives, they are a celebration of our rich culture.
Things peculiar to me and you as Nigerians
I choose to embrace the nostalgia.
It is a powerful reminder and escape route from the complexities of adulthood.
Share Your Memories 📝
What cherished memory from your childhood still warms your heart? Share your memories in the comments!
