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Nairaland Forum / Nairaland / General / Culture / How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? (2159 Views)
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How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by kaili(f): 8:39am On Mar 29, 2020 |
Good morning all, I'm Mikaili. ![]() These days, many of us African Americans are waking up to the idea of rebuilding the connection with our long-lost homeland. I happen to be one of those individuals. I was born with 4 African names, raised with a deep cultural understanding, and intentionally surrounded myself with African friends. I've always felt welcomed by Nigerians (and Africans in general), however, I've heard that other African-Americans have had negative experiences. NIGERIANS: This is my question for you all. If those of us African-Americans who appreciate your culture begin to visit/relocate in large numbers... would you be bothered by that idea? If so, why?
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Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Nobody: 8:53am On Mar 29, 2020 |
We will treat "those of us African-Americans who appreciate your culture" normally like outsiders or like an Americana. On the other hand, those who genuinely appreciate their cultural heritage and seek to bond with us will be treated as family. My cousin who was born and brought up in the UK do speak our local dialect despite having visited 9ja just once. 4 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Greystone: 8:55am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili: To be honest with you, I personally feel a bond with African-Americans. You are our brothers and sisters whose ancestors wer forcefully taken away from Africa's shores many years ago. However, there are stereotypes related to African-Americans that are more often than not, true. - the average African-American man is lazy and prone to drugs, gang activities and crime. There's this "victim" mentality like.... he is disadvantaged and under privileged so why even try to be someone of value to the society? - African-American girls are often stubborn and tend to be hood-rats. Teenage pregnancies and single motherhood as well as having children from different men is commoner among African-American women than any other race in the US. If you ask most Nigerian men, myself included, we wud never consider marrying an African-American babe because most of "y'all" are irresponsible. That being said, these are only stereotypes as i have relatives who wer born and raised in America and have turned out incredibly well and are doing well as professionals in different fields. With regards to ur idea of a large-scale "meet-and-greet", Nigerians are generally friendly hardworking people and such a gathering wud be highly welcomed. However, u have to be weary of fraudsters and swindlers. Also make adequate security arrangements. With regards to relocating to Nigeria, hmmm...i don't want to discourage you but whatever challenges you are facing in the US are nothing compared to what you wud experience here. Nigeria is an extremely difficult country to live in. I repeat, extremely difficult. Almost nothing works here. It's difficult enough for us who wer born and raised here. Don't do it. Please. Many Nigerians are, save for this terrible corona virus pandemic, trying to find ways of migrating to other countries. Visit Nigeria briefly in the future if u must, but don't relocate here. Best of luck. 5 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by jerryunit48: 8:57am On Mar 29, 2020 |
Sister every black American is free to visit/ relocate to Nigeria its not a problem for us. It please do your homework before anything 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by kaili(f): 9:04am On Mar 29, 2020 |
I must say, I had some mixed emotions while reading this response. I'm saddened that the stereotypes in regard to African-American behavioral characteristics have influenced the minds of our brothers and sisters abroad. Though some of what you said was true, particularly the victim mentality comment, I believe everything is a result of cause-and-effect. The media has a huge influence on how we are portrayed. I am majoring in Journalism, so I can attest to that first-hand. This isn't an excuse for the behavior you mentioned, however, it's become easier for me to view things from a different lens since I know that the "ghetto/ratchet" individuals do not make up the majority of African-Americans. If you turn on the TV or visit certain areas, however, it will certainly look that way. I wouldn't encourage that particular demographic to return to OR visit the African continent by any means. Unfortunately, they need a level of healing that no one else can facilitate but themselves. Finally, for myself, I'm simply interested in visiting Nigeria. I've heard about how difficult it is to live there from Nigerians I know personally. The stories have been alarming. If/when I relocate, I may just pack my bags and set up shop in Accra. Greystone: |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Greystone: 9:16am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili: I was sure u wud have mixed emotions to my response and I’m sorry if i touched a nerve, but honestly, this is how many Nigerians regard African-Americans. You are absolutely right- the media often magnifies this by portraying African-Americans in a bad light. As you rightly said, the victim-mentality is a direct result of cause and effect and their healing can only come from within. Nigerians have been praying and hoping for improvement in all spheres of life but unfortunately, we perpetually suffer from bad leadership and things keep going from bad to worse. I’ve leraned that Accra is a beautiful place. I’m the only member of my family yet to visit Ghana. I intend to do so in the future. I do wish you well in your endeavors because in my opinion, you are level-headed, intelligent, and a brilliant journalist. PS: Why did u change ur profile pic? ![]() |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by kaili(f): 9:23am On Mar 29, 2020 |
I hope the political climate of Nigeria soon improves. Will be praying for you all from afar! Thank you for the compliments! After reading your first response, I didn't want my pic to paint that ghetto, overly-sexual picture of me LOL!!!! ![]() Greystone: |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by donbachi(m): 9:23am On Mar 29, 2020 |
As long as dem go follow us dey go farm and river,adapt to our killer polluted environment and wont start comparing naija to yankee...wetin concern me. 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Me77: 9:26am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili:To your question, I have no problem with African American people relocating to Nigeria or Africa. I love African American culture and hip-hop and I do watch a lot of movies concerning AA, I don't care about the stereotype and how the media portray AA people. I have learned to read beyond what the media do show on the daily. The only problem I see with AA relocating to Africa is cultural change and how are you people going to adopt to them. Africa is not like the west, things are totally different here. If you're planning to relocate, I'll advise you come spent a month or two to experience the african life by yourself before making a decision to relocate permanently or not. 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Greystone: 9:28am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili: You’re welcome. kaili: No not at all ![]() LoL 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by kaili(f): 9:29am On Mar 29, 2020 |
Interesting point of view. What do you think are some of the things (culturally) that would shock us, or feel uncomfortable at first for visitors? I am certainly open to the idea of spending a month or two abroad. Me77: |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Me77: 9:57am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili:Think of how things are done in your country, over here is the complete opposite, with some degree of unorderedness. Can you cope with lack of electricity, spicy food and drinks. If you'll be residing in Lagos, then you have to be extra prepared because it is a different world entirely. 1 Like |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Greystone: 11:22am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili: How’s the Covid19 pandemic where u live? Is a lockdown in place? Have u been tested? |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Greystone: 11:52am On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili: You asked a question that I'd like to ask you. What do African-Americans think of Nigerians? Any stereotypes? |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by baiaon(m): 1:17pm On Mar 29, 2020 |
Greystone: Greystone: Just look at the way this loser is chasing. You are pathetic 1 Like |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by SOPWriter: 1:36pm On Mar 29, 2020 |
kaili: You mentioned that you are a Journalist and tourist. Is that right? Okay, I will be responding to you from that point of view. Nigeria is actually a good place to visit. I could recall when my family hosted two of our British relatives who had never been in the country. They were mother and child. The mum is in her 60s, while the lady was 25 as at that time. We initially thought their visit could be burdensome, considering the need to change our food table, provide basic amenities like constant electricity and air conditioning system, just as it is in the UK. To cut this whole long story short, Mikaili, hosting these two was the most beautiful thing that happened to us, because they naturalized within few weeks. Astonishingly, their visits were slated for a month; the mum left at the designated time, while the daughter chose to stay back for additional 6 months. We visited numerous tourist centers, such as Lekki Conservative Centre, New Afrika Shrine, IBB International Golf & Country Club, Erin Ijesha Waterfall, etc. If you are a lover of Camera as I am, you definitely have so much captivating tours to film in Nigeria. Back to your question, Nigerians are welcoming set of people, especially foreigners. Aside the recent disease outbreak, there will definitely be no reason a Nigerian would be distressed about your supposed decision as African American. 3 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by olaniyilukman(m): 1:44pm On Mar 29, 2020 |
I have never been to America before, I haven't had any relation with African-American, so therefore this topic is not for me... Good luck |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Ekwutox: 6:10pm On Mar 29, 2020 |
Why do you feel the need to call yourself such a degrading name (akata)? 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Nobody: 6:41pm On Mar 29, 2020 |
i like their women have ukwuciuous behinds and preety ![]() |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Nobody: 8:22pm On Mar 29, 2020 |
baiaon: Meanwhile you are the pathetic, obviously jealous one SMH |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by kaili(f): 2:49am On Mar 30, 2020 |
I made sure to put quotations around it. I used the terminology because its' commonplace in Nigeria; not because I identify with it. Ekwutox: 1 Like |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by kaili(f): 2:55am On Mar 30, 2020 |
Much like anywhere else, there are the intelligent and the ignorant. For the most part, Nigerians are revered as being highly educated, hard-working individuals-- especially when they make their way to the U.S. and U.K. However, a small percentage of African Americans watch far too much television and believe that the African continent (as a whole) is impoverished, famished, and primitive. I'd say it's somewhat similar to our previous discussion of how Nigerians view us, as a result of negative media portrayal. P.S: My apologies for the late response. The time difference between us is pretty significant! ![]() Greystone: 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Greystone: 6:58am On Mar 30, 2020 |
kaili: True. kaili: Mostly true. This is very similar to what we talked about yesterday- the portrayal of a people by the media. Yes, their is poverty, but their are also a huge number of Nigerians, and indeed Africans, doing impressively well in their careers and businesses. kaili: It's quite alright. I totally understand. I trust you had a gud night. PS: Which city do you live in and how was growing up for you as an African-American? |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by babasolution: 8:28am On Mar 30, 2020 |
But why is it that its mostly African American women that are longing to return to Africa? Have heard stories that the AA women are being rejected in the US thats why they looking for an escape route in Africa 3 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Nobody: 8:44am On Mar 30, 2020 |
I have “akata” family in the US and they are in touch with their Igbo roots. What state are you in? If you are near them I will tell them about you (they can help you a lot). If you do your DNA ancestry test and it turns out you are majorly Igbo that is. Cos if you are Yoruba or any other tribe, it would be better to find their people to help you on your journey. Culture is our way of life and everything. Cheers Nairaland culture section is a good place to be in too 1 Like |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Ekwutox: 9:35am On Mar 30, 2020 |
kaili:Yes I understand now but it still feels off to see such a demeaning name being used by the same people it was coined for, to hurt or insult them. It's just like asking (How receptive are white people to African Americans/"Niggas" )? 3 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by druxlazu: 8:07pm On Mar 30, 2020 |
Some people might term me racist or tribalist but I will term the following a universal law of nature. I only have a feeling of bond with African Americans if they have Yoruba ancestry, this is not me forcing myself to Yoruba. Every cultured people with a blood definitely have an identity. If a Zebra will naturally with and without instinct love his fellow Zebra, that should apply to Yoruba people with blood unique to black Africa because we are not even the typical black even though we look black (I hate calling myself black because my people are of all colors and Yoruba) and it is self evident to the eye. If a Zebra can identify a fellow Zebra naturally, I can identify a full blooded noble Yoruba man and a half blooded one and I have never failed in this department. if I can't get it right, I can't get it wrong at identifying you except neutral. People with mixed blood of 5 people doesn't belong to any people and doesn't have a blood. And once again, you can still love Africa and feel Africa from the US but if you were asking me whether you can relocate to this part of this world at this moment, I will BLUNTLY TELL YOU NOT TO. Black Africa is a terrible place for all good people, wretchedness and degeneration is the order of the day including lawlessness and low civilization. I will without a doubt anyday believe Yoruba people are a superior people to the people they live and how unfortunate that we have been ruled by and forced together to live with low civilized people for 60 years. Nigeria have cheated and done injustice to the highly civilized Yoruba people for 60 years. Above all, I will welcome you and my people will welcome you like how highly civilized and cultured people do. 2 Likes |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by OruExpress: 4:36am On Apr 01, 2020 |
You're not akata, don't let anyone call you that name. |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by IDENNAA(m): 6:28pm On Apr 01, 2020 |
I dont feel connected to black Americans, maybe Caribbeans but definitely not BA. |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Cousin9999: 5:02am On Apr 02, 2020 |
T r o l l thread. |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by RZArecta(m): 12:21am On Apr 03, 2020 |
Nigeria is a large country made up of many tribes and with hundreds of languages, I’ve travelled to many states across the regions here and one thing I can tell you of pat is that Nigerians are generally a receptive and peaceful people especially if you show an interest and respect for the traditions of your host (ie greeting the elderly respectfully, eating their food etc)... Just ask me anything you want to know ![]() |
Re: How Receptive Are Nigerians To African Americans/"akatas"? by Dyonne: 3:59am On Apr 03, 2020 |
baiaon: Mind your business. |
Let Us Talk About Enyi Ure, The Wickedness Of Igbos Against Humanity / Do You Think Women Can Really Have It All? And How? / What's The Easiest Way To Learn Yoruba? Please!
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