For many Nigerians living in the UK, returning home for holidays means facing one of the country’s most unpredictable challenges — #driving on Nigerian roads. From switching road sides to navigating the “organised chaos” of Lagos traffic, the experience sparks equal parts humour, culture shock, and survival stories.

The conversation recently came alive on X (formerly Twitter) within the Nigerians in the UK community, where returnees shared their candid — and often hilarious — experiences of swapping Britain’s orderly highways for Nigeria’s bustling roads.

“You will shout tire!”

One user described the experience as a battle with danfo and keke drivers, saying:

“Nothing much, you just have to deal with the annoying driving of Korope or Danfo. You will shout tire!”

Another added, “If you give way at a roundabout, you’ll sleep there. Lagos drivers no dey joke.”

Muscle memory vs Naija reality

Several returnees spoke about the automatic “muscle memory” of UK driving clashing with Nigeria’s unique road culture.

“At first, muscle memory might embarrass you in Nigeria because it’s been long. You’ll be signalling properly and entering roundabouts like you own the place. After a few days, you just join the organised chaos.”

One person admitted they even asked which side of the road to drive on in Abuja, despite years of driving across the country before relocating.

“Naija mode” only

For some, adaptation was instant:

“When I went home in May, I realised that driving sanely cannot work. They were just honking and shouting at me. I ditched my UK driving and entered Naija mode for two weeks, then left it at the airport when I returned.”

Others found themselves caught between systems.

“I tried to give way. They cursed me and my ancestors and almost hit me! Even police will tell you to skip the traffic lights.”

Not everyone is willing to try

Some Nigerians abroad have completely opted out.

“I don wash hand commot for driving in Naija. Make dem no spoil my hand.”
“Find someone to drive you in Nigeria. Don’t bother yourself, please.”

The balancing act

Despite the chaos, many agreed that Nigerians abroad eventually adapt — sometimes within hours, sometimes after a few days. One user summed it up with simple wisdom:

“When you’re in Rome, behave like a Roman. You activate the Nigerian in you when you drive in Nigeria. When you get back to the UK, you compose.”

Takeaway

The thread highlights a familiar reality: Nigerians abroad live between two systems. Driving in the UK is rule-bound and predictable, while driving in Nigeria often requires quick instincts, resilience, and sometimes nerves of steel.

But whether laughing about roundabouts or dodging okadas, one truth stands out — Nigerians always find a way to adapt.