WATCH: SA woman shares cultural shocks from her first visit to Nigeria! A young South African woman recently shared her experience visiting Nigeria for the first time, capturing the attention of many on TikTok.
Her video highlighted the cultural differences she observed during her stay in the West African country, sparking conversation and appreciation online.
Cultural Shocks in Nigeria
During her visit, the TikToker identified several aspects of Nigerian culture that stood out to her, from beauty standards to societal norms.
Here are the key observations she shared:
- Minimal Makeup Culture
One of the first things she noticed was how Nigerian women tend to wear less makeup compared to South African women. She remarked that in South Africa, it is common for women to step out fully made up, but in Nigeria, natural beauty appears to take precedence. - Luxury Brand Presence
While staying in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, she observed the limited presence of major international luxury brands like Zara and Louis Vuitton, which are more commonly found in South Africa and other countries. However, she praised Nigerians for their commitment to supporting local brands, noting that this fosters a sense of pride and sustainability in the community. - Efficient Banking System
A surprising cultural difference for her was Nigeria’s efficient and versatile banking system. She was impressed by how businesses widely accept various payment methods, including cash, cards, and bank transfers. She pointed out that this level of financial flexibility is not as common in South Africa, where some payment options are less accessible. - Culture of Respect
Another striking observation was the strong culture of respect in Nigeria. She highlighted how people greet one another with formal salutations such as “Good morning, ma’am” rather than casual greetings like “Hi” or “Hello.” She found this practice heartwarming and reflective of the values upheld in Nigerian society.
WATCH:
“The girls here are not big on makeup…”
South African lists the culture shocks she is experiencing on her first-ever visit to Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/d4v868Hizv
— @ (@OneJoblessBoy) January 22, 2025
Positive Reactions from Nigerians
Her TikTok video quickly gained traction, with many Nigerians expressing gratitude in the comment section. They appreciated her for taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate the unique cultural aspects of their country.
One commenter wrote:
“Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s always refreshing to see our culture appreciated by visitors.”
Another user said:
“Nigeria may have its challenges, but our culture and values remain strong. We’re glad you had a positive experience!”
Bridging Cultural Gaps
The young woman’s reflections resonate with the growing interest in cross-cultural exploration and understanding. By sharing her experience, she not only highlighted the beauty and uniqueness of Nigerian culture but also encouraged her followers to embrace the differences they encounter when visiting new places.
The video serves as a reminder of how travel can challenge preconceived notions and foster appreciation for diversity. From beauty standards to societal norms and modern conveniences, her journey shed light on the rich tapestry of life in Nigeria, providing a fresh perspective for her South African audience.
Inspiring Others to Explore
As the TikTok video continues to trend, it’s inspiring others to consider exploring Nigeria and other African countries. Many viewers expressed curiosity about visiting Nigeria themselves, eager to experience the cultural richness she described.
Travel enthusiasts in the comments shared their own experiences, emphasizing the importance of travel in breaking stereotypes and building bridges between different cultures.
A Memorable Journey
The South African woman’s first trip to Nigeria proved to be an eye-opening and enriching experience. From Abuja’s bustling streets to the cultural values deeply ingrained in Nigerian society, she left with a newfound appreciation for the country.
Her story is a testament to the transformative power of travel, encouraging others to embrace new experiences and broaden their horizons. Whether it’s the simplicity of beauty routines, the vibrancy of local brands, or the warmth of formal greetings, Nigeria left an indelible mark on her—and on everyone who watched her heartfelt TikTok video.
