The Sound of Generators - Nigeria

Growing up in Lagos, the hum of generators was as familiar as the chatter from the popular yellow buses (danfo) at dawn or the laughter spilling from neighbours’ compounds. At first, I thought it was ordinary; the way streetlights flickered off, the way my mother lit a candle before cooking, and the way my father, weary from work, dragged the generator out with quiet determination.

I began to understand the layers within that sound as I grew older. The generator, although noisy, was a symbol of passion and sheer determination. It reflected resilience, the refusal of Nigerians to be paralysed by challenges. It reflected ingenuity; how electricians in my neighbourhood rewired unlikely circuits simply to keep a single fan spinning through the night. And yes, it reflected hope that even in darkness, we created our own light.

As I reflect on my early years, I remember the yellow glow of the kerosene lantern dancing on the wall alongside my shadow. I realize how far we have come and how much further we need to go. Today in Nigeria, there are many discussions about solar grids, renewable energy, and solutions led by young people to address the country's electricity shortage.

The hum of generators has become a symbol of Nigeria for me; it is raw, unrefined, noisy, and very much alive. We face challenges head-on. We bring light to every dark place. Each ordinary sound holds an incredible story about who we are and who we are becoming.

I believe stories can bridge cultures and inspire transformative experiences; hence, I wrote this piece about the rhythms of Nigerian life and the resilience of its people.