This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
As I reflect on my experience being stranded in Nigeria during the COVID-19 pandemic, I am reminded of the resilience and determination that defined my journey. It was March 21, 2020, when I first arrived in Lagos, Nigeria, for a project. Little did I know that my return journey would be a challenging and anxiety-filled experience.
Upon arrival, I was struck by the relaxed attitude of the people around me. Despite the growing concerns about the pandemic, there was a sense of complacency that seemed to pervade the air. I recall noticing that hardly anyone was wearing a mask, and social distancing was not being observed. This was a stark contrast to the precautions being taken in other parts of the world.
As I settled into my hotel, I began to feel a sense of unease. Our team of 30 seemed to be taking the pandemic lightly, shaking hands and hugging each other without any concern for social distancing. I, on the other hand, was determined to keep myself safe, reminding everyone to stay at least a meter away from me and from each other.
However, my concerns were soon overshadowed by the rapidly changing situation. On March 26, our airline grounded its flights, and we were advised to seek a refund. We quickly booked the last available flight from Owerri, but Nigeria had already decided to stop all domestic flights. The country had also shut its borders in an effort to stem the spread of the virus.
When I arrived in Lagos, I was met with even more challenges. The CitiHeights Hotel, where I usually stay, was closed to new guests. I was eventually allowed to stay the night, but I knew I had to find alternative accommodation. The reality of my situation sank in when I was booked into a different room, and I had an anxiety attack for about an hour.
With the borders closed and the Kenyan Embassy in Nigeria shut, I was left feeling desperate and alone. I called the embassy, but they advised me to stay put, as there was little they could do for me. I was on my own, with little left to survive on.
