Nigerian Independence Day: What Other Africans Love Most About Nigerians

One thing is certain about Nigerians: they always leave an impression. When a Nigerian walks into a room, whether in Africa or abroad, you’ll know. The country is arguably the most culturally influential on the continent, with its music, movies, fashion, and food shaping trends worldwide.

But beyond the headlines and stereotypes, what do fellow Africans really think of them? To mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1, OkayAfrica asked people across the continent to share what they love most about Nigerians. Here’s what they said.

Matšeliso Motšoane, Mosotho (Lesotho) cultural historian 

Happy Independence Day to the African giant, Nigeria, which is a really cool place filled with interesting people and culture. Something that I’ve always admired about Nigeria and Nigerians is their boldness, their audacity, especially coming from a country that has been framed as one of meek and quiet and non-abrasive people. 

I also deeply appreciate Nigeria’s literary contribution to the world. Some of the world’s greatest writers come from there, and as a writer myself, I have watched keenly as the literary space has evolved from the Chinua Achebes and Wole Soyinkas, to your Chimamanda Ngozi Adichies, and now, many, many other people. I hope that they overcome a lot of the systematic nonsense that they are going through at the hands of careless leaders, because that country is really inspiring and destined for eternal greatness. 

I also want to appreciate the music. I went from the sound of Afrobeats being jarring to me, to it being so resonant. I’m currently enjoying a lot of the work that’s being done by younger Afrobeats artists, like Rema and ODUMODUBLVCK. Shoutout to them as well.

Tibian Bahari, Sudanese mixed media artist based in Nairobi

Nigeria is not only where I took my first foot steps, but it truly built and shaped me into the woman that I am now, being able to navigate Kenya and, before that, traveling on my own. Nigerians, and growing up amongst them, most specifically in the south (Lagos), taught me first and foremost: respect. They’re the blueprint for how they respect their elders, friendships, and boundaries. I have so much embodied in me, especially in my art, because I grew up literally listening to Fela Kuti and seeing his album covers. It’s real, his face, his music, his messaging, and his impact still run deep to this day in Nigeria and in me.

Kwasi Mensah, Ghanaian entrepreneur

One thing I appreciate about Nigerians is their grit and tenacity. I’ve been impressed by this for quite some time. Your typical Nigerian won’t give up or throw in the towel easily when working on a project; they believe there’s always a way. They’ll suggest a few more ideas or alternatives and often get creative to see it through to completion. ‘Oga, we can try out this other way, and it could work.’ There’s an easier connection that’s fostered by our official language being English, which makes communication fairly easy. And maybe it lends itself to us picking up on our sensibilities without trying too hard. This makes Accra feel a bit closer to Lagos than Cotonou.

Ahmed Elshaebi, Libyan communications expert

Despite the circumstances, they like to joke and have a specific type of humor that I enjoy. They’re really funny people. Nigerians have existed in Libya for a long time because of Libya's policy towards Africa under Muammar Gaddafi. We have a lot in common: we don’t take any bull***t. There’s a sense of unity. We see each other as equal Africans. When I visited Nigeria, I discovered how much they enjoy music. I like how much they enjoy life and their sense of hospitality.

Ken Nderitu, Kenyan media producer

When I think of Nigeria and Nigerian people, I love how they are so unabashedly themselves. They will not dim their light or reduce their volume to appease your sensibility. They are proud of their culture and heritage. It shows especially in their art, from books to music and movies. You only need a second to know that this is ‘another banger.’ They are proud of their African-ness, and it makes you want to be proud of your own African-ness! Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! Keep blazing a trail!

Lerato Mogoatlhe, South African communications professional and travel writer

What I really appreciate about Nigeria is that there is so much drive and desire to succeed, and a wealth of creative talent. Whether it’s music, film, or painting, Nigeria truly embodies everything that I love and appreciate about the content. One of my favorite anecdotes to tell is about a filmmaker who moved from London to Nigeria because she wanted her film career to get off the ground, and she says that it’s exactly what Nigeria did for her. That says a lot about a country, right, that someone would leave London and go to Lagos because they want to make their dream come true. And they recognize that Nollywood, as the second biggest producer of film in the world, was going to be that platform.

Acy Kara, Kenyan breakdancer

Nigeria is a land of vibrant diversity. With over 250 ethnic groups, it is a country rich in fashion while shaping music, film, and food. From the Afrobeats to the Nollywood to Jollof rice and bold Ankara styles. Nigeria does shine with creativity and pride, and they are truly the giants of Africa. And it inspires the world with its culture, spirit, and resilience. And yes, happy Independence Day, Nigeria! We love y'all!

Wavah Abraham, Ugandan A&R Manager

I have always been fascinated by the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and warmth of Nigeria and its people. Nigeria's diversity is its strength, and its people's ability to thrive in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. 

I admire the innovative spirit of Nigerian entrepreneurs, the creativity of its musicians and artists. From Fela Kuti to Asake and Seyi Vibez, from Chinua Achebe to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Nigeria has produced some of the most talented and influential individuals on the continent.

 It’s quite impressive that Nigeria is a representation of the African story. They represent Africa wherever they go. A Nigerian will mention Africa more than they will mention Nigeria, and that says so much about how much they are proud of the continent and the culture of Africanism.

 As Nigeria celebrates its Independence Day, I join in the celebration of its freedom, its people, and its contributions to the African story. May this nation continue to rise, and may its people remain a source of inspiration and pride for generations to come. Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!

Quotes gathered by: Tšeliso Monaheng, Paula Adhis, Nelson, C.J., Amuna Wagner