Scary Realities of Being a Nigerian: Fears and Challenges
Life as a Nigerian is not without its fears and challenges. The everyday struggles faced by people living in Nigeria can be daunting. Whether it is navigating through the harsh realities of poverty, addressing life-threatening health issues, or overcoming the fears that plague many Nigerians, the experience is often a mix of both immense hope and pervasive anxiety. In this article, we delve into some of the most common fears that Nigerians face, both within and outside their homeland.
1. The Fear of Untimely Death
The fear of untimely death is a prevalent concern, particularly among those with chronic illnesses. The exorbitant costs of medical treatment and medication can be alarming, especially when expenses can rival an individual's entire income in a single month. For example, the monthly cost of insulin and test strips is often equivalent to a person's monthly salary. This financial burden can be overwhelming, leading to a constant state of worry and dread.
This fear is amplified by the chronic illnesses that many Nigerians face. The risks associated with untreated or poorly managed health conditions make the situation even more precarious. Every month, or even every day, the risk of a fatal outcome looms.
2. The Fear of Poverty
Being poor in Nigeria is not just an economic issue; it is a multidimensional crisis. Poverty cripples every aspect of one's existence and exposes individuals to intimidation and oppression in every facet of life. When one is poor, their desires and expectations are rarely met. Furthermore, what little wealth one manages to accumulate can be swiftly taken away. This constant struggle creates a difficult and often demoralizing context.
The fear of poverty is so deeply ingrained that it drives many Nigerians to never stop striving for financial security. Success, however, is often met with increased envy and hostile desires from others. The fear of having one's success undermined or sabotaged through malicious means, whether real or perceived, is a common anxiety.
3. The Fear of Becoming “Illiterate”
The stigmatization of being perceived as "illiterate" also poses a significant fear for many Nigerians. The constant pressure to acquire educational qualifications can be immense, leading to a culture where even graduating from secondary school is seen as a significant achievement. This mindset extends to the belief that without a certificate, one is virtually unemployable in most sectors.
The high cost of burial ceremonies in Nigeria is another source of fear, particularly for those who have achieved success. These expenses can be overwhelming, and the pressure to display wealth through such ceremonies can lead individuals to engage in behavior they would not normally consider. Conversely, for those who are less successful, the fear of financial ruin due to burial costs is a constant concern.
For Nigerians Living Abroad
Nigerians living abroad face unique challenges, many of which are tied to their fear of returning to their homeland. The fear of unfulfilled dreams, the potential for deportation if undocumented, and the haunting possibility of violence upon returning to Nigeria are common anxieties.
The fear of deportation for illegal immigrants is a source of immense stress. The social and legal consequences of being deported can be devastating, often resulting in a profound sense of loss and shame. This fear is compounded by the possibility of becoming a target for violence or hostility within one's own country.
In conclusion, the fears faced by Nigerians are multifaceted and deeply rooted in the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the nation. Addressing and overcoming these fears requires a multifaceted approach that considers both individual and systemic solutions. The resilience and courage of Nigerians, however, ensure that they continue to navigate these challenges with determination and hope.