By Bababunmi Agbebi
In a world often divided by politics, race, religion, and economic status, one force continues to quietly dismantle walls and build bridges, human connection. For Nigerians, whose cultural identity is deeply rooted in community and hospitality, this connection often manifests in profound, life-changing friendships that transcend borders.
Whether in the bustling streets of Lagos or the quiet villages of the Middle Belt, there is a natural openness to others that extends beyond nationality.
A young Corp member, Ifeoma Nnaji says when she moved abroad for her studies, she carried the ethos of communalism with her. At first, she expected to feel like an outsider, a Nigerian in a sea of unfamiliar faces. But it didn’t take long to realize that the very qualities we often overlook, sharing food, offering help, laughing over shared struggles were keys to unlocking deep friendships with people from countries she had only seen on a map.
Nigerians are known for their resilience, warmth, and ability to find joy even in hardship. These qualities make us natural connectors. Personally, I’ve seen fellow Nigerians in diaspora form instant bonds with people from Pakistan, Brazil, Ukraine, Ghana, and China not because of similarities, but because of the desire to truly see one another.
Our music, our food, our storytelling they are magnetic.
In Nigeria, it’s common to ask a stranger, “How is your family?” even before discussing business. It’s a small but powerful reminder that people matter more than transactions. This simple cultural norm, when practiced globally, can foster empathy in spaces where suspicion often prevails.
It’s easy to fear what we don’t understand. But friendship real, heart-level connection pushes us to listen more and assume less. It challenges stereotypes and reveals the nuance of human experience.
In these times of division, the world needs more bridge-builders. Nigerians, with our diasporic spread and deep sense of community, are uniquely positioned to lead in this space. We can export not just oil or entertainment, but empathy and unity.
Let us continue to reach across divides with open hearts and listening ears. Let us tell our stories, and just as importantly, hear those of others. Because at the end of the day, behind every flag, accent, and skin tone, there is a person longing to be understood just like you, just like me.
Human connection is not a luxury; it is a necessity. In our fractured world, it may just be the most revolutionary act.
Let us choose connection. The world needs it now more than ever.
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