AnyOneCanRead®
EMMA AND LIAM’S NIGERIA ADVENTURE
by Elizabeth
Chapter One: Summer Break, Finally!
Summer break had finally arrived, and for Emma and Liam, it wasn’t just a break from school, it was an adventure. Having spent their entire lives in the United Kingdom, they had always heard stories from their parents about Nigeria, their ancestral homeland. This summer, their parents surprised them with a trip to Lagos, the bustling city where their paternal grandparents live.
With their bags packed, excited and curious, Emma and Liam boarded the plane with their parents, eager to explore the rich cultural and historical landmarks of Lagos. They would all be staying with their grandparents, who live in The Lekki area in Lagos State. So begins their journey to Lagos, a city that never sleeps and is always buzzing with energy and excitement. 
Image by Nupo Deyon Daniel at Unplash.com
Chapter Two: Arrival In Lagos, Welcome To Lekki
As the plane touched down at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Emma and Liam eagerly peered out of the window, eager to catch their first glimpse of Nigeria. Their parents led them through the bustling airport where they finally got their bags and were greeted by the warm embrace of their grandparents at the airport.
The family then made their way to Lekki, a vibrant neighbourhood known for its beautiful beaches and modern amenities. Emma and Liam marvelled at the colourful buildings and lively streets as they drove through Lagos and towards their grandparents’ home in Lekki, a cozy oasis nestled amidst the bustling city.
Chapter Three: A Day At Lekki Conservation Centre
Excited to explore their grandparents’ neighbourhood, Emma and Liam woke up early the next morning. Their grandmother greeted them with warm smiles and delicious akara and pap for breakfast. With their bellies full, they set out to explore The Lekki Peninsula.
Their first stop was The Lekki Conservation Centre, a sprawling nature reserve in the heart of Lagos. Guided by their grandparents, they walked along elevated canopy walkways high above the treetops, spotting monkeys, birds, and other wildlife below. The siblings learned about the importance of conservation and protecting Nigeria’s natural habitats for future generations to enjoy.
Image by Joshua J. Cotten from Unsplash.com
Chapter Four: Market Day At Lekki Arts And Crafts Market
Next on their itinerary was the Lekki arts and crafts market, where talented artisans from all over Nigeria showcased their beautiful handmade goods. The bustling market was filled with colourful stalls selling traditional Nigerian crafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
Emma and Liam marvelled at the intricate beadwork, colourful fabrics, and wooden sculptures, each piece telling its own story of Nigerian culture and tradition.
The siblings tried their hand at bargaining with vendors and even joined in a drumming circle led by local musicians. They left the market with handmade treasures to remind them of their unforgettable visit to Lagos.
Image by Askar Abayev at Pexels.com
Chapter Five: Discovering Nigerian History At Freedom Park
Emma and Liam’s grandparents also took them to Freedom Park, a historic site that was once a colonial prison but has been transformed into a vibrant cultural centre. The siblings listened intently as their grandparents shared stories about Nigeria’s struggle for independence and the importance of preserving its heritage. They explored the park’s museums, art galleries, and open-air performance spaces, immersing themselves in Nigeria’s rich history and culture.
They wandered through the park’s lush gardens and stumbled upon a live music performance, where local musicians serenaded the crowd with soulful melodies.
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Activity:
Fill in the blanks with the words that match the clues below. Use words from the word bank below.
This used to be Freedom Park:
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A place to relax in the park:
_____________________________________
You might see one of these with interesting stories:
_____________________________________
A person who fought for freedom in Nigeria:
_____________________________________
Something you can find growing in the park:
_____________________________________
A tall stationary structure that you might see:
_____________________________________
A beautiful view you can see from the park:
_____________________________________
Word bank – choose among these words to fill in the above blanks:
PRISON, HERO, PLANT, SEAT, CITY, STATUE, WALL
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Chapter Six: Journey To Badagry Slave Route
The next day, Emma and Liam were visiting two notable locations, the Badagry Slave Route and the National Museum. They embarked on a sober yet important journey with their family to The Badagry Slave Route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the memory of Nigeria’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Walking through historical sites such as slave ports, dungeons, and monuments – dedicated to those who suffered during this dark period in history – the siblings gained a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s past and its resilience in overcoming adversity.
Chapter Seven: Discovering The National Museum
Next on their trip was the Nigerian National Museum in Onikan. Stepping through the entrance, they were transported back in time as they wandered through the museum’s halls filled with old artifacts – and learning the stories of Nigeria from ancient times to today. They learnt it was the oldest museum in Nigeria, founded in 1957. Their first stop was the Nok terracotta gallery.
Their first stop was the archaeological section. They gazed in wonder at carved pottery and stone tools, imagining the hands that had crafted them so long ago. Next was the ethnographic galleries, where they encountered exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of Nigeria’s many tribes. They learnt the significance of each artifact, from colourful masks used in traditional ceremonies to intricately woven textiles adorned with symbols of ancient lore.
In the art gallery, Emma’s eyes widened with wonder as she beheld stunning paintings and sculptures by renowned Nigerian artists. She was particularly drawn to a painting depicting a bustling market scene, its vibrant colours bringing the hustle and bustle of Nigerian life to life. Liam, meanwhile, was captivated by the collection of bronze artifacts, marvelling at the skill and craftsmanship of ancient Nigerian artisans.
As they explored further, Emma and Liam discovered exhibits dedicated to Nigeria’s colonial past and its struggle for independence. They listened solemnly as their grandparents shared stories of resistance and resilience, their hearts swelling with pride for their country.
As the day drew to a close, Emma and Liam reluctantly bid farewell to the Nigerian National Museum, their minds buzzing with newfound knowledge, and their hearts filled with a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture and heritage. They had had a most fulfilling day and couldn’t wait for the next day to visit other locations on their list.
Chapter Eight: A Day At Nike Art Gallery
Emma and Liam awoke feeling more energetic and hungry for more adventure. After a tasty breakfast of boiled yam and egg sauce, they had their baths and got ready for their next visit.
They bounced with excitement as they approached the vibrant entrance of the Nike Art Gallery, hand in hand with their grandparents. The gallery’s colourful walls, adorned with beautiful artworks, welcomed them with open arms.
Inside, they were greeted by the gallery owner, who shared stories of the talented Nigerian artists whose works were on display. Emma’s eyes widened as she admired the intricate beadwork and vibrant paintings, while Liam was captivated by the sculptures depicting scenes from Nigerian folklore.
After exploring the various exhibits, Emma and Liam joined their grandparents for a hands-on arts workshop. With paintbrushes in hand, they let their creativity flow, inspired by the rich culture and heritage of Nigeria. As they bid farewell to the gallery, Emma and Liam carried with them not only their own artwork, but also a newfound appreciation for Nigerian art and culture.
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Chapter Nine: Immersed In Terra Kulture
The final stop for the day was Terra Kulture, a cultural hub celebrating the diversity of Nigerian arts and entertainment. As they entered the bustling venue, they were greeted by the sounds of traditional music and the aroma of delicious Nigerian cuisine.
Emma and Liam eagerly joined their grandparents in exploring the various stalls, admiring handcrafted artifacts and colourful textiles. They watched in awe as dancers performed traditional Nigerian dances, their feet tapping along to the rhythm of the drums.
At the storytelling corner, Emma and Liam listened with rapt attention as a storyteller regaled them with tales of Nigerian folklore and legend. They laughed at the antics of mischievous spirits and cheered for brave heroes.
As the day drew to a close, Emma and Liam reflected on their Nigerian adventure with their grandparents, grateful for the memories they had made and the lessons they had learned. They were looking forward to the weekend, when their dad’s brother, Uncle Femi, will be coming over with his family so they all could visit Omu Resort. It promised to be a fun filled day for the whole family.
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Chapter Ten: A Weekend Of Fun At Omu Resort
Emma and Liam’s excitement reached new heights as they arrived at Omu Resort, a paradise of fun and adventure nestled in the heart of Lagos. With their parents, grandparents, Uncle Femi and his wife, Aunty Tola and their three kids Ayo, Bisola and Junior, they set out to explore all that the resort had to offer.
First stop, the animal kingdom, where Emma and Liam marvelled at exotic animals from all over the world. They fed giraffes, petted baby goats, and giggled at the antics of playful monkeys swinging from tree to tree.
Next, it was time for some adrenaline-pumping thrills at the amusement park. Emma and Liam raced down water slides, spun around on carnival rides, and challenged each other to games of mini-golf and laser tag.
As the day came to an end, Emma and Liam reluctantly bid farewell to Omu Resort, their hearts filled with memories of laughter and adventure.
Chapter Eleven: A Family Feast, Celebrating Togetherness
The air was filled with laughter and the aroma of delicious Nigerian dishes cooking in the kitchen. As the sun began to set, relatives from near and far arrived, their voices blending in joyful conversation as they hugged and exchanged greetings.
Emma and Liam’s cousins raced around the backyard, their laughter echoing through the air as they played games and shared stories. Inside the house, Grandma and Grandpa bustled about, overseeing the preparations for the feast. The dining table groaned under the weight of traditional Nigerian dishes – from jollof rice to pounded yam, from fried plantains to spicy pepper soup, suya and lots more.
Emma and Liam eagerly joined their family in the kitchen, helping to chop vegetables and to set the table. They listened intently as their grandparents shared stories of their own childhood memories, transporting them back to a time when life was simpler, and family was everything.
As the feast began, Emma and Liam savoured each bite of the delicious food, their taste buds tingling with the flavours of Nigeria. They laughed and joked with their cousins, feeling a sense of belonging and connection that warmed their hearts.
As the night wore on, the music started, and Emma and Liam found themselves dancing with their family under the stars. They moved to the rhythm of traditional Nigerian songs, their spirits soaring with each beat of the drum.
As they finally settled down by the fire pit, surrounded by loved ones, Emma and Liam felt a profound sense of gratitude. In that moment, they realized that true adventure wasn’t just about exploring new places – it was about experiencing the joy of togetherness, surrounded by the people who mattered most.
After their whirlwind adventure in Lagos, Emma and Liam’s holiday trip plan will be taking them to Calabar, to visit their cousins on their mother’s side. Excitement bubbled within them as they started googling the internet for the places and attractions they intended to visit in Calabar.
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