Port Harcourt: The Garden City of Nigeria

• HelloBawo ni
  [bah-woh nee]
• GoodbyeKachifo
  [kah-chee-foh]
• YesEe
  [eh]
• NoMba
  [um-bah]
• Please/You're welcomeAbeg
  [ah-beg]
• Thank youEse
  [eh-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryBiko
  [bee-koh]
• How are you?How far?
  [how fah]
• Fine. And you?I dey. You?
  [ee dey. yoo]
• Do you speak English?You sabi speak English?
  [yooh sah-bee speek ing-glish]
• I don't understandI no sabi
  [ee no sah-bee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAbeg show me the menu
  [ah-beg show me the menu]
• I don't eat meatI no dey chop meat
  [ee no day chawp meht]
• Cheers!Kachifo!
  [kah-chee-foh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAbeg I wan pay
  [ah-beg ee wahn pay]

• Help!Biko!
  [bee-koh]
• Go away!Japa!
  [jah-pah]
• Call the Police!Call Police!
  [call police]
• Call a doctor!Call doctor!
  [call doctor]
• I'm lostI lost
  [ee lost]
• I'm illI dey sick
  [ee day sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wan buy...
  [ee wahn buy]
• I'm just lookingI dey look
  [ee day look]
• How much is it?How much for am?
  [how much for am]
• That's too expensiveE too cost
  [eh too cost]
• Can you lower the price?You fit reduce the price?
  [yooh fit reh-duce the price]

• What time is it?Wetin be the time?
  [wetin bay the time]
• It's one o'clockE don reach one
  [eh don reh-ch one]
• Half past (10)Half ten don waka
  [hahf ten don wah-kah]
• MorningMornin
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [af-tah-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [ev-en-in]
• YesterdayYestade
  [yes-tah-day]
• TodayToday
  [toh-day]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-moh-roh]
• 1One
  [wahn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [tree]
• 4Four
  [faw]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [seh-ven]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nyne]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Wia dey...?
  [wee-ah day]
• What's the address?Wetin be the address?
  [wetin bay the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?You fit show me for map?
  [yooh fit show me for map]
• When's the next (bus)?When bus go waka?
  [when bus go wah-kah]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticket (go ...)
  [ticket go]

Port Harcourt was founded in 1912 by the British colonial administration. It was named after Lewis Vernon Harcourt, who was the Secretary of State for the Colonies at the time. The city was established to serve as a port for the export of coal from the Enugu coal fields.

The discovery of crude oil in Oloibiri in the 1950s catapulted Port Harcourt into a major economic hub. The construction of oil refineries and the establishment of multinational oil companies in the city spurred rapid industrial growth and urbanization. The Trans-Amadi industrial layout was developed during this period, further contributing to the city's economic expansion.

Port Harcourt played a significant role during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970). Initially, it was part of the secessionist state of Biafra. However, it was recaptured by Nigerian federal troops in May 1968. The city's strategic location and oil resources made it a focal point during the conflict.

Following the end of the Nigerian Civil War, Port Harcourt experienced significant reconstruction and redevelopment. The Nigerian government invested heavily in rebuilding the city's infrastructure, which had been damaged during the conflict. This era also saw the expansion of residential areas and the development of new educational institutions.

Port Harcourt is known for its rich cultural diversity, with a mix of indigenous groups such as the Ikwerre, Ijaw, and Ogoni, as well as people from other parts of Nigeria and the world. The city hosts various cultural festivals, including the Port Harcourt Carnival, locally known as 'CARNIRIV,' which showcases music, dance, and traditional attire from different ethnic groups.

Port Harcourt is home to several renowned educational institutions, including the University of Port Harcourt, established in 1975. The city is a center for learning and research, attracting students and scholars from across Nigeria and beyond. The presence of these institutions has contributed significantly to the intellectual and cultural landscape of the city.

Today, Port Harcourt is a bustling metropolis and a major economic center in Nigeria. It continues to play a vital role in the country's oil and gas industry. The city's skyline is dotted with modern buildings, and it boasts a vibrant nightlife, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. Despite challenges such as pollution and traffic congestion, Port Harcourt remains a dynamic and influential city in Nigeria.

Port Harcourt is served by the Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC), located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights connect Port Harcourt to major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Accra. Taxis and car rentals are available at the airport for transportation to the city. Additionally, Port Harcourt is accessible by road and rail from other Nigerian cities, although road conditions may vary.

Within Port Harcourt, various transportation options are available, including taxis, buses, and motorcycle taxis (okadas). Taxis and ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber are commonly used by tourists for convenience and safety. Buses and okadas are more affordable but may be less comfortable. For longer distances within the state, consider hiring a private car.

The official currency in Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). While credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available in Port Harcourt, but it's wise to have some cash on hand for emergencies and places that do not accept cards.

Port Harcourt has areas with varying levels of safety. It is advisable to avoid neighborhoods such as Diobu, Mile 1, and Mile 3, which are known for higher crime rates targeting tourists. Stick to well-known and secure areas like GRA (Government Reserved Area) Phase 2 and 3. Always stay vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Port Harcourt has several hospitals and clinics offering medical services, including the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially in mosques and churches. Dress modestly and remove shoes when required. Public Transport: Do negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey. Don't use unmarked taxis. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. Address elders respectfully. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as banga soup and boli. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Port Harcourt like a local, visit the Mile One Market for a vibrant shopping experience, where you can buy local crafts and fresh produce. Engage with the locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their culture. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride on the Bonny River or visit the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach. For a taste of local nightlife, explore the bars and restaurants in the GRA area.