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Childhood is a magical time, a period of innocence, discovery, and simple joys. For women who grew up in Nigeria, it was even more special, filled with vibrant cultural experiences, shared traditions, and unforgettable adventures. Life wasnt cluttered with digital distractions; instead, we found endless entertainment in outdoor games, community gatherings, and the warmth of family moments.

Growing up in Nigeria meant experiencing a blend of unique traditions, iconic television shows, and childhood snacks that brought us immeasurable joy. It was a time when community bonds were strong, every festival felt like a grand celebration, and the most cherished moments were often the simplest ones. These memories are not just nostalgic, theyre cultural artifacts that have shaped who we are today, reminding us of a time when life moved at a slower, sweeter pace.

This article is a love letter to those cherished days, a throwback to the moments that many Nigerian women hold close to their hearts. From the games that defined our afternoons to the stories that lit up our evenings, lets dive into a comprehensive celebration of what it truly meant to grow up in Nigeria. Whether youre reminiscing about playing suwe in your neighborhood or sitting with your family to watch Tales by Moonlight, these memories will undoubtedly bring a smile to your face and a warm glow to your heart.

Games That Brought Us Together

Before the era of smartphones and video games, playtime revolved around the outdoors. The neighborhood was our playground, and the games we played were not just fun but also fostered teamwork, laughter, and creativity.

Suwe (Hopscotch)

Theres nothing quite like the excitement of drawing squares on the ground with chalk or charcoal, carefully hopping on one foot, and ensuring your balance was perfect. Suwe wasnt just a game; it was a rite of passage and a test of strategy and skill.

Ten-Ten

Every Nigerian girl remembers the rhythm and precision of Ten-Ten. The synchronized clapping, the quick kicks, and the thrill of outwitting your opponent made this clapping-and-kicking game an absolute favourite.

Ayo Game

Evenings in Nigerian households were sacred for one reason, TV time. Families would gather around small boxy televisions to watch their favourite shows, and those moments created memories that still linger.

Tales by Moonlight

Who can forget the storyteller seated with children gathered around, eager to listen to folk tales infused with moral lessons? Tales by Moonlight wasnt just a show; it was a portal to a world of imagination and cultural wisdom.

Superstory and Papa Ajasco

These classics brought families together every week. From the dramatic twists of Superstory to the hilarity of Papa Ajascos antics, these shows entertained and bonded generations.

Voltron and Sesame Street: For those fortunate enough to watch international programs, Voltron taught us about unity and teamwork, while Sesame Street introduced us to numbers, letters, and timeless childhood lessons.

Festivals and Cultural Celebrations

Growing up in Nigeria meant that every festival was a time of unparalleled excitement and joy.

Egungun Festivals: The vibrant colours of the masquerades, the rhythm of traditional drums, and the mix of thrill and fear as you tried to avoid being caught by the Egungun were unforgettable. These festivals were a celebration of culture and community.

Christmas and Eid Celebrations: Festive periods brought families together in a way that no other time could. New clothes were tailored with love, the aroma of jollof rice and fried chicken filled the air, and children moved from house to house collecting treats, hugs, and sometimes crisp naira notes.

Independence Day Parades: Dressing in green and white for school parades, performing cultural dances, and waving the Nigerian flag with pride were some of the best moments of childhood.

Snacks That Made Childhood Sweet

Nigerian childhood snacks had a unique way of brightening our days, no matter how simple they were.

Baba Dudu and Coconut Candy

Sticky, sweet, and irresistibly chewy, these treats were a prized reward after school or during playtime.

Puff-Puff and Buns: No party was complete without puff-puff and buns, fried to golden perfection and served hot. They were simple yet deeply satisfying.

Ice Water and Kuli Kuli: On hot afternoons, chilled sachets of pure water were the ultimate refreshment, while kuli kuli (groundnut snacks) added a savory touch to our snacking adventures.

Lessons We Treasure

Beyond the games and festivities, childhood in Nigeria taught us invaluable life lessons. We learned to make the most out of what we had, finding joy in simple things. We learned resilience, creativity, and the value of community. Respect for elders was non-negotiable, and the importance of sharing was instilled early on.

These experiences shaped the women we are today, resourceful, strong, and deeply rooted in culture.

Reflecting on these memories, its impossible not to smile. Growing up in Nigeria wasnt just about fun; it was a journey of discovery, connection, and learning. These childhood moments remind us of the richness of our heritage and the beauty of shared experiences.

As we celebrate Flashback Friday, lets cherish these memories and pass them on to the next generation.

Childhood experiencesChildhood Memories Every Nigerian Woman Can Relate ToFeatured

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