Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories - Travels in Nigeria: Full Story (Bonus)

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Starting point is 00:01:22 sleep sounds app and get 30 days free access to all of the premium content just go to deepsleepsounds.com slash get sleepy. That's deepsleepsounds.com slash get sleepy. Welcome to get sleepy, where we listen, we relax and we get sleepy. My name's Thomas and I'm your host. Thanks for being here for our monthly compilation episode. This time, we're heading to Nigeria for a two-part journey, in a place full of wonder, color, and character. First, we'll take a peaceful bus ride through Lagos, the capital city of Nigeria,

Starting point is 00:02:20 before heading on to Benin City in part two, where we'll immerse ourselves in its rich culture and history. So, make your... yourself as comfortable as can be and just spend a moment going through any rituals or routines that help you settle and unwind once you're in bed. Meanwhile, we'll begin our story on a sunny morning in Lagos. As you pull back the linen curtains, the early morning light filters through, casting a soft lemony glow across your bed. The sunlight is dappled and moves ever so slightly with the breeze of the early morning. Looking out of your window over the city of Lagos,

Starting point is 00:03:57 the sun is just beginning to rise. It casts long shadows and bathes the city. And baths the city, in a warm amber hue. The sky transitions from deep blue to delicate shades of pink and orange, and the streets below, still quiet, gradually awaken with the promise of a new day. You take a deep breath, savoring the crisp, fresh air. As the sun climbs higher, you feel a sense of anticipation for the new experiences and adventures that lie ahead. You've decided to make the most of your time in Lagos by rising early today. Your plan is to explore the city by bus. In enjoying a leisurely journey through different neighborhoods. So it's time to get ready.

Starting point is 00:05:31 With bare feet, you pad towards the kitchen, opening the fridge. You decide the simpler, the better. A cheese and chutney sandwich and a cool bottle of pineapple juice should be just right for what promises to be a very warm day. You prepare a snack for later. Then, once you're dressed and ready, you gather your things and slowly make your way towards the bus station. The sun shines overhead like a gentle good morning. You're still feeling sleepy and the bottle of pineapple juice beckons you. You pause for a moment and raise the drink to your lips. Taking a sip, the first thing you notice is the tartness. Awakening your palate with a subtle tang, the freshness

Starting point is 00:07:01 of mint mingles delicately with the pineapple, adding an unexpected and invigorating layer of flavor, This blend of fruity sharpness and soothing mint creates a rejuvenating sensation. It's funny how something so simple can make you feel bright and revitalized. You soon reach the bus station. In the neighborhood of Ikoi, there is a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. The dorm paints the pothold rinked. road with golden hues, seemingly filling the dips with liquid molten light, there is little to no movement, apart from the occasional bicycle whizzing by. And no sounds other than the

Starting point is 00:08:17 crow of a rooster. Once you've found your bus stop, you stand and wait patiently. The air fills full of promise, you lean into the quiet. Standing still in a place where everything seems to pause, it's as if the world is holding its breath, waiting just minutes away, the city is ready to burst into life and noise, you breathe in again. The cool, refreshing air carries the earthy scent of dukist grass. Then you catch sight of the bus trundling towards you with the rattle of metal and a squeaky break. It slowly comes to a halt. You step onto the bus. and there are a few other passengers who seem to be enjoying the tranquility of this morning. The bus driver, with a warm and reassuring smile, welcomes you on board and begins to drive,

Starting point is 00:10:07 guiding the vehicle with a steady hand. You settle into a seat by the window. Soon, the soft hum of the bus and the gentle motion lull you into a state of relaxation. The bus rolls around each bend, gliding smoothly down the streets of Icoi. Your window is open ever so slightly. The morning air is invigorating, brushing against your skin. as the bus moves forward. You gaze out of the window at the elegant old buildings that line the road.

Starting point is 00:11:10 Their facades are a charming mix of colonial grace and contemporary updates. Along the streets are tall, graceful trees. Their canopies swaying gently in the morning breeze. The rustling of their leaves mingles with the distant chirps of birds perched high in the branches. They seem to look down, giving a play-by-play commentary.

Starting point is 00:11:56 Their songs are delicate and slightly dissonant, blending with the rhythmic hum of the bus as it steadily moves along. The peaceful atmosphere of the neighborhood wraps around you, drawing you deeper into a state of calm. You notice your breathing slowing, matching the easy, unhurried pace of the bus. Now you begin to cross over the Lagos Lagoon, a quiet passage through what will soon be a busy,

Starting point is 00:12:49 and buzzing town. A current of blue flows outside the window. As your bus makes its way to the third mainland bridge, it's one of the longest bridges in Africa, stretching elegantly over the waters. The city around you is beginning to stir, but there's a serenity in this moment that feels timeless. The water below mirrors the sky, creating a picture-perfect scene of calm and beauty. As the bus crosses the bridge, you take in the expansive view. To one side, Lagos Island sprawls out before you. The skyline is a mixture of old and new. With colonial buildings standing alongside sleek modern skyscrapers, on the other side, the mainland stretches out,

Starting point is 00:14:23 a patchwork of bustling neighbourhoods and tranquil residential areas. It reminds you of an optical illusion, one that only reveals its image when you distance your distance your, yourself, the view is breathtaking. But it's the stillness of the water below that captures your attention. Gentle ripples whisper of the life hidden beneath the surface. Then a swath of trees unfurls overhead. Their branches intertwining to create a lush green cathedral. The dense foliage forms an intricate leafy mosaic, filtering the sunlight into an ever-shifting play of emerald hues and soft shadows. Without people dutting the pavements, this place feels so

Starting point is 00:15:49 peaceful. Almost untouched, the bus moves steadily onwards. the hum of the engine, a soothing backdrop to the scene unfolding outside your window. Small fishing boats glide across the lagoon, their sails catching the morning breeze. The fishermen, with their practiced unhurried movements, seem to be in perfect harmony with the rhythm of the day. you catch sight of a particular fisherman whose presence captures the essence of the morning. He stands beside a modest wooden boat. Its paint chipped and faded from years of exposure to the elements.

Starting point is 00:17:05 A wide-brimmed hat shields his eyes from the sun, and his hands move easily as he works on the fishing nets sprawled out before him. The fisherman's movements are slow and deliberate. A silent conversation with the sea. As if he's in tune with its every ebb and flow, as the bus continues its journey, The landscape gradually shifts. You enter the vibrant neighborhood of Yaba,

Starting point is 00:17:57 where the energy of Lagos starts to awaken. Yet even here, in this lively hub of education and culture, a sense of calm lingers in the air. The wide treeline avenues are bathed, in the golden light of the early morning, and the streets are still quiet, save for the occasional giggle or burst of chatter. Only a few students are making their way to class. The bus glides deeper into the heart of the city. The gentle transition from the serene lagoon to the streets of Yaba reflects the unique layered rhythm of Lagos. A city where calm and vibrancy coexist,

Starting point is 00:19:18 your stomach gives a soft rumble, a reminder of the food you've packed for just this moment. You reach into your bag, carefully unwrapping the sandwich. you take a bite, the crunch and softness of the bread and the rich, savory cheese filling you up. Once you feel adequately satiated, you again look out of the window. You're passing by the University of Lagos, where the campus is still cloaked in the quiet of early morning. The tall trees on the campus grounds offer shade and tranquility. Beneath them, a handful of students walk slowly. Some lost in thought, others chatting with friends, as the bus winds its way through Yaba.

Starting point is 00:20:45 You catch more glimpses of everyday life, a group of women. dressed in colourful, traditional attire, walk together. Their conversation punctuated by laughter. Further on, a young boy holds his mother's hand, gazing wide-eyed at the world around him. The city is beginning to wake up as the bus heads towards Surilere, a well-loved residential neighborhood. The pace of life visibly eases. The streets here aligned with modest homes. Their facades adorned with blooming gardens that burst with the colors of tropical flowers.

Starting point is 00:22:01 The air is filled with the warm, inviting aroma of loads of loads of low. call life. Street vendors sell freshly fried Akara, tiny scoops of mildly flavored bean dough, cooked to perfection. There's also the rich, spicy scent of jollough rice from nearby food stores. Children dart across the streets. Their cheerful shouts, blending with the rustling of palm fronds and the distant hum of a generator. Elderly men in traditional clothes sit in the shade of porches, engaging in hushed conversations. The scene outside offers a moment of calm and reflection. You wish you had a video camera, but for the time being, your eyes will certainly suffice. The journey through this quarter of town is a reminder of the everyday beauty

Starting point is 00:23:34 found in the quiet corners of Lagos. The parts of the city that might not photograph so well, they look far better in person in all their natural glory. You notice a small park where families are out for a morning walk. Their dogs trotting happily beside them. The park is a haven of greenery, with winding paths that invite you to explore. Adults sit on benches, enjoying the calm. While children chase each other on the grass, their shouts echoing through the trees. The scene is idyllic, a snapshot of the peaceful side of Lagos, where life goes on at its own easy-going pace. Next, the bus makes its way to Victoria Island, one of Lagos' more upscale neighborhoods, as you cross the lagoon once more.

Starting point is 00:25:12 The city is bustling with life, but there's still a kind of serenity that hangs in the air. Victoria Island reveals itself with shiny modern buildings, standing tall against the backdrop of the morning sky. The glass facades of high rises catch the light, glinting like scattered trusses. jewels. The streets are lined with well-kept gardens and greenery, adding a touch of elegance to the surroundings. And even as the streets get busier, the morning light smooths out to the city's edge as the bus rolls past the waterfront. The Atlantic Ocean stretches endlessly. Its surface, reflecting a dazzling array of blues and silvers, the waves crash softly against the shore. A soothing sound that echoes in your mind long after you've passed by.

Starting point is 00:26:48 You see fishermen preparing their boats for the day, and along the sandy beach, joggers create striking silhouettes against the glittering expanse. Each runner's profile is sharply defined by the sunlight, their dark shapes standing out against the bright, sparkling water. The bus continues through Victoria Island, taking you past areas where urban sophistication meets natural beauty. You feel a sense of ease as you take in the sights. The bus is steady motion and surroundings combining to create a deep sense of relaxation. Your journey through Lagos is nearing its end. But not before the bus takes you to Lecky, a neighbourhood on the outskirts of,

Starting point is 00:28:18 the city. As the bus enters Zleki, you're greeted by wide-open spaces and a sense of calm that is different from the rest of the city. The streets are lined with tall palm trees. Their fronds swayed gently in the breeze, creating wide-armed shadows on the road below. The bus travels through the quiet residential areas, where expansive homes are set back from the road, surrounded by lush gardens. The air here is fresh and clean, carrying the scent of the ocean that's never far away. As you pass by the Lecky Conservation Centre, you feel a connection to nature, that is rare in a bustling city like Lagos. The trees here are ancient and towering.

Starting point is 00:29:49 Their branches forming a protective canopy over the wildlife below. It's a sanctuary where the natural world is preserved in its purest form. You can just about catch the faint, melodious hum, of distant life beyond the trees, blending with the natural chorus of the birds. As the bus continues on, you feel a deep sense of contentment. The city is fully awake now, buzzing with energy and life, but you carry with you the calmness of the morning. The sun is high in the sky, casting a warm, golden light over the city, and in your heart,

Starting point is 00:31:09 you feel the peace of the journey you've just taken. You reflect on the neighborhoods you've visited, each with its own unique charm and character from the tranquil streets of Icoi to the parks of Surulere and from the elegance of Victoria Island to the natural beauty of Lecki. You've experienced a side of Lagos that's often hidden beneath the surface. It's a city of contrasts where the hustle and bustle, of urban life coexists with pockets of serenity and calm. The gentle sway of the bus, combined with the hum of the engine, starts to lull you into a deeper sense of relaxation. Your eyes grow heavy,

Starting point is 00:32:40 the scenes outside the window, becoming soft blurs of colour, before you realise it. You've drifted into a light, restful sleep. It's a sultry and hazy afternoon. As you leave your hotel room, the sky is dotted with the odd cloud here and there. and the air is heavy with that all too familiar hint at the promise of rain. You catch the scent of the earth, not yet dry from yesterday's downpour, mixed with the smells of foliage and distant smoke, navigating your way down the road, you're struck by the pulse of the city.

Starting point is 00:34:04 At present, a distant, throbbing as you near the city centre, you can identify the calls of hawkers selling their wares, the lively chatter of market stores, the hum of motorcycles, and the laughter of children playing in narrow alleyways. Yet beneath this lively scene, you sense a quiet undercurrent, A stillness that hints at something deeper, something older and constant. It is this undercurrent that attracted you in the first place. You've come to Benin City, not just to explore its landmarks, but to delve into the stories of its long life.

Starting point is 00:35:19 This city was once the centre of the powerful Benin kingdom, one of the oldest and most advanced civilisations in West Africa, and while you've read about the kingdom, its art, its achievements, and its tragic encounter with British colonial forces in 1897. You know that books can only convey so much to truly understand this place, you need to experience it first-hand, to walk the same paths once trodden by kings, warriors, priests, and artists, and to put your finger on the pulse of a history still living, hat on head, bag in hand, and sunglasses, and sunglasses, and perched on the bridge of your nose. You walk along the street.

Starting point is 00:36:38 You can feel the sun shining down on you. But although it's humid, the city also feels open and airy, allowing for gusts of wind and the generous shade of mango trees. The mangoes currently unripe promise to be full of flavor in their next couple of days. You're tempted to pick one off its branch. But you refrain, knowing you should allow for the natural progression of things to take its course. The sun casts a haze that distorts the horizon and blurs boundaries. Everything before you shimmers, despite the intensity of the of the sun. There's a certain beauty to the hazy atmosphere. As it baths the city in light, you can feel the warmth

Starting point is 00:38:03 of the sun through your leather sandals. These practical shoes, which you bought from a vendor in Lagos, are covered in small beads. In the sun, they seem to cast small shards of light onto a any reflective surface around. Soon, you reach the bustling streets of the city center. The air practically vibrates with energy, the energy of centuries of cultural exchange. The streets seem to echo with the footsteps of traders and travelers who've been passing through for generations. The marketplace, a loosely-waven tapestry of colours and sounds, stretches out before you

Starting point is 00:39:17 like a living canvas. Stools line the narrow alleys. Their trinkets displayed in a dazzling array. Each stall is a veritable treasure trove. Brightly painted fabrics catch your eye. intricate patterns and bold colors, hinting at stories untold, from the highly pigmented indigoes of traditional Adiray cloth, to the shimmering silks favored by Benin royalty. Each piece carries with it a threaded hemline of the city's cultural heritage, the very

Starting point is 00:40:17 designs imprinted upon them seem to whisper tales of dynasties long gone. Of queens and warriors, who once walked these same streets, the air is heavy with the heady scent of spices. A tantalizing blend that dances on the breeze and sets your senses alight. Cinnamon mingles with cloves and cardamom with ginger, creating a fusion of aromas that evokes the culinary traditions of the Benin Kingdom. Pre-colonisation, trade was the heartbeat of Benin's thriving city. In 1490, Portuguese travellers arrived, drawn by Benin's rich cotton, leopard skins, and palm oil. In return, they offered shining brass and copper arm rings. One beautiful commodity in exchange for another. The king at the time, Oba Ozalua, presumably welcomed these visitors.

Starting point is 00:42:00 But later on in history, a darker story unfolded in the 19th century. In the 19th century, Britain, seeking control over West Africa, set its sights on Benin. Oba of Umraum Ramwen tried to protect his kingdom. But in 1897, the British invaded, burning Benin city and looting the royal palace. The Oba was exiled, and the kingdom of Benin, one. once strong and proud, fell under British control. Becoming part of what came to be known as British Nigeria. Nigeria eventually reclaimed its independence in 1960, and while Benin City's royal past

Starting point is 00:43:11 now resides in memory, its legacy lives on in the vibrant markets and cultural traditions. On this street, where business bustles and artisans work with skill passed down through generations, the story of the Benin Kingdom's rise and fall remains. A reminder of a realm that once glittered with promise, as you wander through the market, the air hangs thick with the scent of roasted plantains, spices, and the earthy aroma of wet clay. You imagine that this is exactly how it smelt centuries ago. An invisible thread connecting past through present. You wonder how many plantain trees witnessed the transformation of this former kingdom.

Starting point is 00:44:31 And as you think of those trees, you wonder how many generations of children have clambered up them. The chatter of vendors and the clamor of customers negotiating prices fills the atmosphere. All around you, the iridescent colours of beads shimmer in the sunlight. Likes, Lime Greens and Ultramarine Blues, catching your eye as they sway gently in the breeze. Like accidental wind chimes, the vendors call out to you, their voices carrying over the din as they invite you to admire their works, but it's something else that draws you in. Something small and unassuming, your gaze settles on a humble stool, where a man sits behind a wooden desk.

Starting point is 00:45:57 His eyes warm and welcoming. Laid out before him is an array of cowrie shells, meticulously crafted into bangles, enclets, rings and necklaces, the creamy shells gleam softly. Their smooth, curved surfaces, reflecting the light in a way that feels almost magical. Intrigued, you meander up to his store, drawn in by the simplicity of its display. As you approach, the most magical, the most The man greets you with a smile. His voice deep and resonant, warm hello, he says. You return his greeting, and he gestures towards the cowrie shells,

Starting point is 00:47:11 inviting you to take a closer look. These shells, he begins, are more than just adornments. They carry with them the weight of history, The stories of our ancestors, his words peak your curiosity, and you lean in, carefully picking up a bangle made of delicately strung cowrie shells. The shells are smooth to the touch and cool against your skin. You can't help but wonder about the journey they've taken to reach this market stall. The man's eyes light up as he sees your interest.

Starting point is 00:48:13 Do you know, he says, there is an old Hauser proverb. Whoever is patient with a Kaori Shah will one day have thousands of them. He pauses, letting the words sink in. Then he continues. In a voice now tinged with reverend, He tells you that for centuries, cowrie shells have been cherished in many African cultures. These shells have been used for everything, from jewelry and hair accessories, to ceremonial garments and religious rituals.

Starting point is 00:49:06 Some even believe that the shells offer protection, that they can ward off evil spirits. spirits. As the man speaks, he gently takes the bangle from your hand, turning it over to reveal the shell's intricate markings. These shells, he tells you, were once so valuable that they were used as money. In fact, they were so widespread as currency that the scientific name of the snail means the money cowrie. Imagine that, he muses. A hint of wonder in his voice. You nod, captivated. The idea that these tiny ivory shells were once a means of trade, of survival, feels almost surreal. The man places the bangle back on the table, and she, you feel a spark of connection. Not just to the shells, but to the stories they hold, to the

Starting point is 00:50:46 power something so small can possess. Without hesitation, you decide to buy one. The man's eyes soften with approval as you hand him the money, and in exchange he passes you the bangle with a slow, deliberate motion, as though entrusting you with something precious, you slip the bangle onto your wrist. The cool shells brushing your skin, as you walk away from the stall, the shells clink softly together, The sound delicate yet resonant, much like the man's voice. His words linger in your mind. You feel a little more connected, a little more grounded. It's as though the bangle has anchored you to something deeper, an unbroken thread that stretches back through time, linking you to to the people who once carried these shells, as both currency and talisman. As you wander further,

Starting point is 00:52:37 you come upon what many would call the crown jewels of Benin City. The Benin bronzes. These exquisite artifacts are housed in museums and galleries worldwide, with some displayed in Benin City. In total, there are about 5,000 pieces, many of which were created between the 13th and 16th centuries. In 1897, they were stolen from Benin City by the invading British troops. Some artifacts have since been returned to Nigeria. Today, each retrieved or repatriate. bronze figure tells a tale of craftsmanship and ingenuity. Intricate details, a testament to the skill of the artisans who created them. But behind their beauty lies a darker history, one of colonization and exploitation, as these priceless treasures were looted from their

Starting point is 00:54:13 rightful home and scattered across the globe. It's a reminder of the complex legacy that defines this city. Your first destination to delve deeper into this history is the Benin City National Museum. The building is modest, but inside you find a collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the kingdom of Benin. As you move through the exhibits, you're captivated by the craftsmanship of the objects on display. There are bronze plaques depicting scenes of court life, ivory carvings, and terracotta heads with expressions both serene and regal. Each piece tells a store. Each piece tells a store. not just of the people who made them, but of the society that valued such artistry. One plaque in particular draws your attention.

Starting point is 00:55:52 It depicts a warrior, tall and imposing, is clad in a labrata armour, with a sword raised high, His face is stern and his gaze unwavering. As if daring anyone who looks upon him to challenge his might, as you study the plaque, you can almost hear the clanging of metal, the rhythmic pounding of hammers on anvils, and the murmurs of apprentices learning the ancient craft. You imagine what life must have been like during the height of the Benin Kingdom, envisioning the warrior, marching through the city's streets, the cheers of the people, and the tension of an impending battle.

Starting point is 00:57:09 The plaque is a window into an ancient time that feels immediate, almost tangible, Everything truly seems to breathe and as you continue on your journey, you carry with you a newfound appreciation for this city's cultural heritage while you reflect on the past. You catch glimpses of the present children playing in the streets, their laughter echoing off the wars, artisans, sat work, their skilled hands shaping clay and metal into works of art, and elders gathered under the shade of a jacaranda tree. Sharing stories passed down through generations. Just a short walk from the museum lies the Ober's Palace, the historic residence of the Oba of Benin. Though reconstructed after the British invasion, the palace remains a powerful symbol

Starting point is 00:58:46 of the kingdom's resilience and enduring heritage. The current ruler, Oba Iware II, is the 40th in a royal line. that spans over a thousand years as you draw nearer to the palace, you're struck by its majestic presence. The solemn guards standing at attention underscore the building's importance, reminding you of the legacy it represents. Inside the palace grounds, you find yourself in a space filled with various courtyards, shrines and ceremonial buildings. The atmosphere is one of dignified solemnity, as if the very air is charged with the presence of the ancestors.

Starting point is 01:00:08 You can feel the weight of what came before here, the sense that this is a place where time moves differently. where the reverence for what came before and the expectation of what is still to come coexist in a delicate balance. You are led to the main courtyard, where the ober occasionally holds audiences and conducts important ceremonies. The space is dominated by a large tree. Its branches spreading wide, as if offering shelter to all who stand beneath it.

Starting point is 01:01:05 You learn that this is a sacred tree, believed to be a link between the physical and spiritual worlds. As you stand beneath the tree, your mind wanders to the stories you've heard about the obars of Benin. These rulers commanded not just respect, but or they were seen as divine figures, intermediaries between the gods and the people. Their authority, unquestionable. You imagine what it must have been like to witness a royal ceremony, to see the oba in all his reggae. Saluted by his chiefs and courtiers, each one playing a role in the elaborate rituals that

Starting point is 01:02:16 defined court life. The thought fills you with a sense of wonder. Next, you make your way to Egan Street. Home to the Guild of Bronze Castors. The street is a hub of activity. With artisans busy at work, their hands move with practiced ease as they shape molten metal into works of art. You're fascinated by the process, watching as the craftsmen used techniques passed down through the generations. The air is filled with the sounds of hammers striking anvils.

Starting point is 01:03:22 the hiss of metal as it cools, and the occasional crackle of a fire being stoked. It's a place where tradition is alive, where the past is not just remembered, but actively preserved. You strike up a conversation with one of the artisans, an elderly man whose hands are rough, from years of labour, and whose eyes shine with pride. He speaks of the lineage of his craft. The practice used to be passed down through the family exclusively. But now, they are keen for anyone to pick it up, for fear of it going extinct.

Starting point is 01:04:28 The guild was established centuries ago by the Ober, who recognized the importance of the bronze casters in immortalizing the achievements of the kingdom, as the artisan explains the process, from the creation of the wax model, to the final casting and polishing. You listen intently. It's a meticulous and time-consuming process, but the results are all. worth it, you realize that the bronze casters are keepers of history. Their work ensuring that the legacy of the Benin Kingdom endures, you look up to the sky. It's a wash in deep oranges,

Starting point is 01:05:42 soft pinks, and fading indigo. Each color, blended seemingly into the next, as the sun begins to set, casting long shadows across the city, you decide to visit one final place. The Moats of Benin, known locally as the Ea, these ancient earthworks were constructed around the city to defend against invaders. They demonstrate the engineering prowess of the Benin people. You've read about the moats, but seeing them in person is a different experience entirely. The walls are massive, stretching for miles.

Starting point is 01:06:54 Their sheer size, a reminder of the determination and skill that went into their construction. You walk along the edge of one of the moats, marvelling at the depth of the trench, and the height of the embankment. It's easy to imagine how daunting these defences must have seemed to anyone who sought to breach them. As you stand there, gazing out over the landscape, you're struck by a sense of awe and awe. wonder, the city you've explored today is not just a collection of buildings and artifacts. It's a living, breathing entity shaped by the hands of countless individuals over the centuries. Every street, every building, every artifact you encounter is a testament. to the enduring spirit of a people who have faced challenges. Yet remain proud of their heritage

Starting point is 01:08:30 as you prepare to leave. You carry with you memories of the places you've seen and a deeper understanding of who and what shapes them. You turn your cowrie-shell bangle around. your wrist, it serves as a tangible reminder of the encounter and as you move forward, you do so with the knowledge that you carry a piece of that history with you. Hanging on your wrist like a quiet, enduring promise. Benin City is more than just a place. It's a story, a story that you've now become a part of.

Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories - Travels in Nigeria: Full Story (Bonus)

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