From Samba to Naija Beat: A Journey to Nigeria's Heart: A traveler's guide to and fro Nigeria and what to do about it

By Monsieur AI Mobutu, Afriqai Podcasts and AI ChatGPT

"From Samba to Naija Beat: A Journey to Nigeria's Heart", published by Afriqai Podcasts, aims to spotlight the mysteries, beauty, and diverse cultures of Africa. We are devoted to celebrating the richness of the African continent, and "From Samba to Naija Beat" is just the beginning of a remarkable series that delves into the wonders of Africa's many treasures.

At Afriqai Podcasts, we believe in the power of storytelling to bridge cultures, ignite curiosity, and foster a sense of unity among diverse communities. Our podcasts, supported by these book series, and available on major platforms, explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and people of Africa, inviting you to discover the beauty and complexity of the continent.

André's journey through Nigeria was only the first step in our mission to showcase Africa's boundless beauty. In the coming books, we will take you on voyages to other African countries, uncovering their unique histories, traditions, and natural wonders. From the vibrant streets of Senegal to the mystical landscapes of Ethiopia, our series will immerse you in the magic of Africa.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jul 21, 2023
• ISBN: 9781312309517

Book preview

From Samba to Naija Beat: A Journey to Nigeria's Heart

A traveler's guide to and fro Nigeria and what to do about it

Monsieur AI Mobutu

Afriqai Podcasts

Copyright © 2023 Afriqai Podcasts

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

Cover design by: Iteoluwakiisi

Copyright © 2023 Afriqai Podcasts

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

ISBN: 9781312309517

Cover design by: Iteoluwakiisi

To all Africans struggling to make ends meet and to those perpetually in tears for not knowing what to do with their talents and passion.

From Samba to Naija Beat:

       A Journey to Nigeria's Heart

A traveler's guide to and fro Nigeria and what to do about it

Written by Monsieur AI Mobutu, assisted by ChatGPT

Publication Year: [2023]

Note: From Samba to Naija Beat: A Journey to Nigeria's Heart is a work of fiction. While the novel draws inspiration from Nigeria's rich cultural heritage, historical context, and tourist attractions, the events, characters, and dialogues are products of the author's imagination. The portrayal of real-life places, people, and events should not be interpreted as factual or representative of actual occurrences. The novel serves as a means to explore the diverse aspects of Nigeria, offering readers a fictionalized glimpse into the country's vibrant landscapes, cultural traditions, and the transformative power of travel.

The Encounter

André, a Brazilian with a deep love for Nigerian culture, embarked on a serendipitous journey that would forever change his life. It all began with a chance encounter with his Nigerian friend, Kunle, who shared André's passion for exploring the rich heart of Nigeria.

Their bond was forged years ago when they met during a cultural exchange program. André was instantly captivated by Kunle's warmth, vibrant personality, and his profound love for his homeland. The two friends spent countless hours sharing stories, immersing themselves in the sounds of Nigerian music, and devouring plates of jollof rice. André's fascination with Nigeria grew with each passing day.

André's heart fluttered with anticipation as he prepared for his long-awaited journey to Nigeria. The vibrant culture and rich traditions of this West African nation had captured his imagination, igniting a desire to explore its hidden gems and contribute to its growth and development.

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Months of meticulous planning lay before André as he immersed himself in research and preparations. He devoured books on Nigerian history, savored the flavors of Nigerian cuisine at local restaurants, and spent countless hours learning the rhythmic beats of Afrobeat music. Nigeria was not just a destination; it was a calling.

With a map of Nigeria spread out before him, André carefully plotted his itinerary, mapping out the cities, towns, and rural communities he hoped to visit. His vision went beyond the typical tourist experience; he yearned to connect with the people, hear their stories, and understand the challenges and triumphs they faced daily.

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As he delved deeper into his preparations, André's enthusiasm was matched only by his meticulous attention to detail. He secured the necessary travel documents, familiarized himself with local customs and etiquette, and learned a few key phrases in the local languages to bridge the communication gap.

But André knew that his journey would be more than just a personal exploration. It was an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. He envisioned collaborating with local entrepreneurs, investing in sustainable projects, and empowering communities to thrive on their own terms. André wanted to be a catalyst for positive change, leveraging his resources and knowledge to uplift those he encountered along the way.

In the weeks leading up to his departure, André sought guidance from friends who had already embarked on similar adventures. Their stories and experiences provided invaluable insights, preparing him for the challenges that lay ahead. They shared cautionary tales of navigating the bustling markets, negotiating with street vendors, and immersing oneself in the vibrant chaos of Nigerian life.

Armed with their advice, André meticulously packed his bags, ensuring he had everything he needed for the journey. From sturdy walking shoes to a notebook for capturing the stories he would encounter, each item carried a sense of purpose and anticipation.

As the day of departure arrived, André's heart raced with a mix of excitement and nervousness. He bid farewell to his loved ones, knowing that this journey would be transformative, both for himself and the communities he hoped to support.

The Gateway City - Lagos

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                      Photo credit: Afriqai Podcasts

Stepping off the plane in Lagos, André was immediately engulfed in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and colors. The bustling airport greeted him with a chaotic yet captivating energy, a microcosm of the vibrant city that lay beyond its walls. Eager to begin his Nigerian adventure, André braced himself for the experiences that awaited him.

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                      Photo credit: Afriqai Podcasts

As he made his way through the airport, André couldn't help but notice the presence of uniformed individuals, some of whom claimed to be airport staff while some appeared to be opportunistic individuals. They approached him, attempting to persuade him to part with his dollars under various pretenses. However, André, having learned from his Nigerian friend Kunle, half-heartedly navigated the situation. He followed Kunle's advice, politely declining their offers while maintaining a firm demeanor. The Nigerian way, as Kunle had called it, was a delicate dance of negotiation and assertiveness.

With Kunle by his