Respecting the Host: Lessons for the Igbo at Home and Abroad

By Steve Owaduge 

In recent years, Nigerians of Igbo extraction have faced growing criticism abroad—in countries such as China, Malaysia, the UAE, and Ghana. The complaints have ranged from allegations of internet fraud and drug trafficking to overstaying visas or breaching local laws. Back home, a similar sentiment appears to be taking shape. In Lagos State, over 20 streets in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area bearing Igbo names were recently renamed, sparking outrage and ethnic tension.

While it is easy to interpret these actions as pure discrimination or tribal bias, we must be honest enough to acknowledge that every action—fair or unfair—often comes from a place of perception, concern, or response to repeated patterns.

Abroad: Why the Host Countries Are Reacting

Foreign countries are not wrong to expect law-abiding conduct from immigrants. Whether in Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, or Accra, the host nation has the right to enforce its laws and protect its citizens. Unfortunately, the frequent involvement of some Nigerians—many of them Igbos—in criminal activities like scams or drug trafficking gives these governments a reason (or excuse) to act against entire communities.

In Ghana, local traders protested against the dominance of Nigerian traders in markets reserved for Ghanaians under local law. Some of these traders—many of whom are Igbo—operated without full compliance to local licensing rules. While their hustle is admirable, it’s also a reminder that when you are in another man’s land, you must respect his rules and boundaries.

The same applies to the UAE and Malaysia. When immigration rules are ignored, or public order is threatened, governments respond. Yes, sometimes harshly. But the point is: your brilliance, business sense, or boldness should never make you believe you're above the laws of your host country.

At Home: The Street Renaming in Lagos

Now let’s talk about the Lagos street renaming. The decision to replace Igbo street names with Yoruba ones in a predominantly Yoruba area may seem harsh, but it’s also worth considering the cultural sensitivity and territorial pride of host communities. Many Lagosians feel that their identity is being watered down or replaced by outsiders. Right or wrong, that feeling is real—and governments respond to the sentiments of their people.

While Lagos is home to all Nigerians, it is still Yoruba land historically and culturally. When residents feel that symbolic spaces like street names no longer reflect their identity, there will be pushback. Perhaps the renaming could have been handled with better consultation—but the message is clear: every guest must be mindful not to dominate the host's space, even unintentionally.

A Word to the Igbo in the Diaspora

The Igbo are among the most industrious, resilient, and ambitious people on earth. Their success stories are many, and their contributions to Nigeria’s economy—both at home and abroad—are undeniable. But with great visibility comes great responsibility.

The truth is: when people see you everywhere—owning shops, building houses, taking the lead—it may inspire respect, but it may also breed resentment. To counter this, the Igbo must not only strive for success but also for respectful integration—blending boldness with humility, and progress with peace.

Be law-abiding. Be culturally sensitive. Don't speak carelessly about your host community or its people. Don't isolate yourselves or act as if you are above others. Most importantly, don’t let a few destroy the reputation of many.

Conclusion: Time to Rethink and Rebuild

The world is watching, and so is Nigeria. What we need now is not more accusations or division but mutual understanding, self-awareness, and responsible behavior. Yes, ethnic profiling exists, but we must not feed it. The street renaming in Lagos may not have been entirely fair, but it is a reminder: every host watches their guests—even more closely when they’re thriving.

To my Igbo brothers and sisters: you are great people. Stay great—not just in wealth or numbers, but in character and wisdom. Respect your host, whether in Lagos, Ghana, or Dubai. Let no one have reason to speak against you.