Are you planning a solo trip as a Nigerian woman? Maybe you wanted to do this a long time ago but you are scared of the unknown, of bad things that might happen on the trip.
Your fear is valid as there are many frightening stories about what happened to some passengers on the road, air or sea. Although safety is not guaranteed anywhere in the world, Nigeria seems to have it worse, from terrible road accidents to kidnappers who want hefty ransoms or human parts for money rituals.
However, travelling solo as a Nigerian woman is not such a bad idea. In fact, it can be liberating, especially if you have spent a long time taking care of others and neglecting yourself. Besides, people have been travelling for years without encountering any dangers on their trip. So, who says your case will be different?
All the same, it is important to take some safety measures, especially as a woman living in Nigeria, a country that is known for its heavy patriarchy. Therefore here are 7 useful tips to stay safe while traveling as a Nigerian woman.
Research where you are going
Even if you are going to your village where you were raised, it is still important to do some crucial research. The village you left many years ago might not be the same today. Years ago, you may drop a bundle of cash on the road and nobody would pick it. Today might be different. In fact, some disgruntled fellows might lay an ambush just to rob you of a N1,000 note.
So try and make some enquiries about your destination. Where is it located? How long will you travel to get there? Is it safe to get there at night? How will you locate your accommodation? Will someone meet you at the bus stop or arrivals? These and more are questions you should be able to answer convincingly before making that trip.
Carry some emergency documents and funds
You may think that this is unnecessary but emergency documents can save you a lot of trouble on your trip. These documents include your passport, visa, ATM card, medical reports, contacts etc. Always carry them wherever you go, even if your trip will take less than an hour. You never know what may happen in the way and you will need at least one of them.
For instance, the bus you’re traveling on may break down on the road and it may take a long time to fix. To make it worse, the driver is unwilling to pay for another bus that will take you to your destination, as it should be the case. What will you do? Pay for another bus to continue your trip or stay back and fight with the driver? If you had your ATM card, cash or even a payment app on your phone, option A will save you a lot of stress.
Keep your luggage in front of you
If there is one disadvantage about travelling solo, it is the fact that you are solely responsible for your luggage. No one can take care of it for you except you. So, do not try neglecting your luggage just because you want to post “pepper dem” pictures on Instagram.
Always carry your luggage, including your bag, backpack and purse in front of you as you make your way to your transport. There are numerous cases of bag snatching, someone can dip their hands into some open areas in your bag or slash your bag to steal the content without your knowledge. But keeping your luggage in front of you with a secure grip will reduce the chances of those things happening.
Sleep with your backpack or purse secure in your arms
As a traveller, sleeping on the road or in an airport may be inevitable. There is nothing wrong with it, especially if had to wake up too early to prepare for the trip or your flight was delayed for hours. However, you must ensure that your backpack or purse are tightly secure in your arms as you sleep.
Do not assume that your belongings are safe just because you are traveling with a transport company with a renowned reputation or the airport is well lit. There is always a first time for everything and you do not want to make history as the first passenger to get robbed with that company. Sleep well but keep your belongings safe.
Share your location to trusted family and friends
This is Nigeria and it is a common practice for people to travel without notifying anyone, just to avoid “village people.” But if you are current with the news, you will understand that letting people know where you are is absolutely important.
Not wishing for anything bad for anyone, but try to let trusted family and friends know where you are going. Emergencies can happen and you will need them to bail you out. Share your rides, and email the addresses of the transport company or your flight details and contact of the accommodation you will be staying during your trip. It will give everyone peace of mind as you make your solo travel.
Carry emergency essentials
You’re definitely wondering why you need emergency essentials or what they even mean. While Nigerians, as very religious people, hope and pray not to have emergencies, it is necessary to be prepared should one come up. Items like a first aid purse, power bank and extra chargers, safety devices, and emergency contacts can quickly come in handy.
Your first aid kit may help you treat minor injuries such as cuts, bruises or scratches before reaching a proper medical centre or even treating that minor headache which may be due to the stress of your trip. There’s probably no need to reiterate why you need a power bank and extra chargers but imagine getting stuck at a motor park at night and you have to communicate with your loved ones. Safety devices such as whistles and a small flashlight could also be the difference between you and getting help. These small, yet useful, objects may help you call for help if necessary or illuminate a dark road if you arrive that village or resort late. Having emergency contacts like local police phone numbers, ambulances or even the Nigerian high commission or embassy in a country you’re visiting is useful. Also consider saving a trusted family member or friend’s phone number in case of emergencies.
Make friends with the locals
When you get to your destination, don’t be an ice queen just to give the impression that you are not a JJC. Instead, try to be friendly to the locals. They are the ones that will tell you where to go and where to avoid. They will look out for you and try to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
But if you carry “I no send you” attitude, they too will mind their business and may not bother to offer their help when you need it. This does not mean you should shine teeth for anybody just because you want to be friendly. Learn to strike the balance of being friendly and maintaining a certain boundary. If you can do that, you are almost guaranteed an enjoyable trip.
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