Although it’s called the Centre of Excellence, after being treated to the most horrifying welcome party ever, I’ve concluded that the city of Lagos needs some rebranding. Chill, you’ll catch my drift real soon.
Depressed, traumatized, anxious, and angry are a few words that precisely reflect my feelings in my one week of working in this part of the country.
Just before you think out of the way, it has nothing to do with ID Africa. In fact, they have been the sweetest bunch of humans and cool kids you could need in your corner.
Before I get all emotional and start loving up on the team for the warm welcome I received as a newbie and migrant from the city of brown roofs, I have some unanswered questions.
So here we go.
How do you protect yourself from all the theft and kidnapping going on in Lagos State? How do you spend four hours stuck in traffic? How do you all live in Lagos like any of this is normal? I think I need some orientation.
To give you some context, I GOT ROBBED AT GUNPOINT four days after I arrived in Lagos.
Recounting my experience feels very exhausting. However, the aftermath isn’t any different from that of any other person who has been a victim of armed robbery. These gunmen went away with some valuables but what hurts the most is the scar left behind.
The anxiety I feel any moment I need to step out of my house or be in a public place. The bad dreams and sleepless nights I now experience as well as how apprehensive I have become.
These are some of the fears I currently live with. Not to mention how my mind automatically suspects every stranger I come across. I completely go into panic mode and have conversations with God, begging him to spare me this time.
Well, enough of the low vibes, I’ve come to realize that the most used word at ID Africa is ‘cool’ and Femi, our CEO has proven himself to be the big brother we all need.
On my first day of working from the office, it was a nice time having some small chops and small talk with the team, while doing work we absolutely enjoy.
To be honest, during the time spent in the office, they made me forget the tragedy I had gone through the previous day and I came to realize that I wasn’t alone. As we all shared our stories, it became evident that a number of us have been victims.
Till you hear from me again, Stay safe, sane, and out of trouble!