Warri: The Heartbeat of Nigeria's Delta

• HelloHow far?
  [haw fah]
• GoodbyeAbeg make I waka
  [ah-beg mah-kay ee wah-kah]
• YesEhen
  [eh-hen]
• NoNo be so
  [no beh soh]
• Please/You're welcomeAbeg
  [ah-beg]
• Thank youI hail you
  [ee hail yoo]
• Excuse me/SorryAbeg
  [ah-beg]
• How are you?How you dey?
  [how yoo dey]
• Fine. And you?I dey kampe. You?
  [ee dey kam-peh. yoo]
• Do you speak English?You sabi speak English?
  [yoo sah-bee speak English]
• I don't understandI no sabi
  [ee no sah-bee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAbeg bring menu make I see
  [ah-beg bring menu mah-kay ee see]
• I don't eat meatI no chop meat
  [ee no chohp meat]
• Cheers!Kachifo!
  [kah-chee-foh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAbeg make I pay
  [ah-beg mah-kay ee peh]

• Help!Abeg!
  [ah-beg]
• Go away!Comot!
  [coh-mot]
• Call the Police!Call polis!
  [call poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Call doctor!
  [call dohk-tor]
• I'm lostI lost
  [ee lost]
• I'm illI de sick
  [ee deh sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wan buy...
  [ee wah-n buy]
• I'm just lookingI dey look
  [ee dey look]
• How much is it?How much e be?
  [how much eh beh]
• That's too expensiveE too cost
  [eh too cost]
• Can you lower the price?You fit reduce the price?
  [yoo fit reh-duce the price]

• What time is it?Wetin be the time?
  [weh-teen beh the time]
• It's one o'clockNa one
  [nah wahn]
• Half past (10)Na ten thirty
  [nah ten thur-tee]
• MorningMornin
  [mohr-neen]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [ahf-tah-noon]
• EveningEvinin
  [eh-vee-neen]
• YesterdayYestade
  [yes-tah-day]
• TodayTideh
  [tee-deh]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eev]
• 6Siks
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [seh-ven]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [neyen]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wey...dey?
  [wey...dey]
• What's the address?Wetin be the address?
  [weh-teen beh the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?You fit show me for map?
  [yoo fit show me foh map]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen next (bus) dey come?
  [wen next (bus) dey come]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticket (go...)
  [tee-ket go]

Warri, located in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, has a history that dates back to ancient times. Originally inhabited by the Itsekiri people, the city was established as a center of trade and commerce due to its strategic position along the waterways. The Itsekiris were known for their fishing skills and strong maritime culture. They established a kingdom that became a significant player in regional trade networks.

The Itsekiri Kingdom, also known as Warri Kingdom, rose to prominence in the 15th century. The kingdom was founded by Prince Ginuwa, a Benin prince who migrated to the area. The Itsekiri people adopted a monarchical system with a king known as the Olu of Warri. The kingdom engaged in trade with European merchants, exchanging goods such as palm oil, ivory, and slaves for European goods. This era marked the beginning of Warri's importance as a trading hub.

Warri's strategic location made it an attractive destination for European traders, particularly the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The Portuguese were among the first Europeans to establish contact in the 16th century, followed by the Dutch and British. These interactions brought about significant cultural exchanges and introduced Christianity to the region. The influence of European traders also played a role in the development of the local economy and infrastructure.

In the late 19th century, Warri came under British colonial rule. The British established the Oil Rivers Protectorate, which later became part of the Niger Coast Protectorate. Warri served as an administrative center during this period. The British introduced new governance structures and economic policies that impacted the traditional way of life. The colonial era also saw the expansion of missionary activities and the establishment of schools, hospitals, and churches.

After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, Warri continued to grow as an economic center. The discovery of oil in the Niger Delta region in the 1950s brought significant economic changes to the city. Warri became a focal point for the oil and gas industry, attracting multinational corporations and workers from various parts of Nigeria and beyond. This period marked a shift towards industrialization and urbanization, transforming Warri into a bustling metropolis.

Despite its modernization, Warri has retained its rich cultural heritage. The city is known for its vibrant festivals and cultural events that showcase the traditions and customs of the Itsekiri people. One of the most notable festivals is the Erejuwa Festival, celebrated to honor past Olus (kings) of Warri. The festival features traditional music, dance, masquerades, and other cultural performances that attract visitors from far and wide.

Today, Warri is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that includes Itsekiris, Urhobos, Ijaws, and people from other ethnic groups. The city's cosmopolitan nature is reflected in its cuisine, language, and social practices. Warri's markets, restaurants, and entertainment venues offer a blend of traditional and modern experiences, making it a dynamic and exciting place to explore.

Warri is accessible via the Osubi Airstrip (Warri Airport), which has regular flights from Lagos and Abuja. Major airlines like Arik Air and Air Peace operate these routes. Alternatively, you can reach Warri by road; it's approximately a 6-hour drive from Lagos and a 5-hour drive from Benin City. Public buses and private car services are available for road travel.

Warri has various transportation options including taxis, tricycles (keke), and buses. Taxis are readily available and can be hired for the day. Tricycles are a common and economical means of getting around the city. Buses and minibuses connect different parts of Warri and are a cost-effective way to travel, though they can be crowded during peak hours.

The official currency is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available throughout Warri, but ensure you have some cash before visiting more remote areas.

Warri, like many urban areas, has its share of crime. It's important to stay vigilant, especially in neighborhoods like Enerhen, Effurun, and Udu where pickpocketing and petty crimes can occur. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in crowded places. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, and keep your belongings secure.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Warri Central Hospital and Lily Clinic are among the medical facilities available for emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing excessively revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly in religious settings. Remove your shoes when entering mosques and avoid photographing people without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous and allow elderly passengers to sit. Don’t eat or drink on public transport as it is considered impolite. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A nod or slight bow is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Warri like a local, visit the local markets such as Igbudu Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the Warri Kingdom Royal Cemetery and Nana Living History Museum for a deeper understanding of the region's heritage. For a unique experience, try the local delicacies like Banga soup and starch.