NYSC CULTURAL SHOCK: DELTA TO KWARA

Table of Contents

 

Cultural Shock: From Delta to Kwara—Adjusting to a New Reality 😭

So, NYSC decided to play a fast one on me and posted me to Kwara State. One minute, I was in Delta, living my best life, and the next, I was in a completely different world. Nobody warned me about the cultural shock, but here I am, struggling to adjust. Let’s break it down.

Less Civilized 

Coming from Delta, I was used to a certain level of city life. Then I landed in Kwara, and everything just felt… different. It’s not like I was expecting Lagos-level vibes, but omo, things move at a slower pace here. The development gap is real, and I’m still trying to wrap my head around it.

Traffic Wardens Over Traffic Lights 

Delta is bustling, full of movement, people, and life. But Kwara? Less populated, quieter, and honestly, it feels like the streets go to bed by 8 pm. And instead of proper traffic lights, they use traffic wardens. Why? And their sun? Omo, it is wicked! I be feeling for them sometimes. They should seriously get them sunscreen because this heat is not for the weak. I don’t know. Some of them are even more confusing than the roundabout they are trying to control!

Stares, Fashion, and the Amala Hype 😭

Ah! The way these people stare ehn, I started checking myself—did I forget my wig? Did I wear my shirt inside out? Or do I look like an alien?? You just walk by, and they give you that long, slow, analyzing look.

Then there’s the fashion struggle. In my former city, people dress well, they understand style. But here? My idea of ‘drip’ is looking like overdoing to them. Meanwhile, they’re hyping amala and ewedu like it’s the best thing to ever happen. I tried it, and let’s just say…I don’t see the hype. 😭

The Unrealistic Language Expectation 😤

The way they expect you to automatically know Yoruba just because you’re in Kwara is actually hilarious. Like, auntie, uncle, I just got here! Even the educated ones that know English will still prefer to gist in Yoruba because  their english sef is not strong. cos what do you mean by kanikpe every 2 minute, so making friends has been one kind. Na to just smile and nod sometimes.

No Generator Noise? This Feels Illegal 😂

One positive shock? Light dey! Compared to Warri, where generator noise is like background music, Kwara is surprisingly stable with electricity. E be like something dey miss.

Also, I noticed there are a lot of phone charging businesses—like, you fit see POS stand, but na phone charging dem dey run on the side.

Adjusting to Kwara life has been a ride, but I’m taking it one step at a time. Who else has had major culture shock after relocating? Share your experience, make I no feel alone! 😂