This was taken on my terrace when Davis, Hassan, and Leon from Tanzania, Zambia, and Rwanda respectively came visiting. It’s the end of their college course and the friends will soon part ways and return to their countries, to the destiny that awaits them.

“The ways of an Idan cannot be understood by mere men”. You’ve probably heard that phrase a
couple of times recently. Or you have been hearing the word “Idan” tossed here and there on
social media lately.
“Idan” is a Yoruba word, that literally translates to “magic”. In the context it is being used in
English, it translates roughly as “a magic user”, or, more accurately, “a person who is mysterious
or unpredictable”. Hence the phrase “the ways of an Idan cannot be understood by mere men”
The term “Idan” has been used to describe a certain kind of person, who possesses a certain
kind of magic, a magic that cannot be easily understood by mere men. They are young people
who are believed to have the ability to manifest their desires into reality. They are seen as
influencers, trendsetters, and game-changers.
I think I’ve shared this epiphany I had here before, but I believe that Nigerians in Nigeria have
developed the habit of using a sense of humor as a coping mechanism. It’s safe to say Nigeria’s
problems today are at an all-time high right now. From the cost of living to national insecurity to
corruption, and that’s just speaking on a national scale. Speaking based on the demographic I
belong to, a Nigerian public university undergraduate, lunged into the brutal working class. This
demographic accounts for 60% or maybe even more of the individuals dominating the Nigerian
social media space. A few of our problems include:
1. Unemployment: I read an article the other day that said the unemployment rate in Nigeria
reached a record high of 33.3% in the fourth quarter of 2020, with youth unemployment even
higher at 42.5%
2. A failing educational system: 8 months ASUU strike, LMAO. I saw this tweet yesterday where
someone was complaining about being at the same level they were in 2021.
3. Insecurity
4. Political marginalization: as what can be considered a general rule in Africa, the youths are
supposed to be quiet and out of sight when “important” decisions are being made. Youths in
Nigeria are often excluded or considered insignificant in political processes and
decision-making, despite being a significant proportion of the population. This is actually
a problem that is gradually dying out, and I say this because of the impact we had on this past
election process. Change takes time (Two steps forward, one step back). Remember, they won’t
be here for long.
I think I have digressed from the point I was trying to make. My point is, it’s hard out here.
Everyone’s just trying to get through the day hoping they see the most minute amount of shege
possible. And when we’re not actively working to secure that mula, or constructing our plans to
japa, or not stuck in Imagination Land, we make jokes. Really funny ones. One of which is what
you’re here to read about today. I call it “The Idan Personality”. As an Idan myself, let me walk
you through what it means to be an Idan.
Idans have an aura of confidence and self-assuredness that draws people to them. We have a
way of making things happen, even when it seems impossible. A unique ability to turn our
dreams into reality, and stories of our successes, accomplishments, and adventures are often
told with awe and amazement.
To be an Idan means to possess an unyielding determination to succeed. It means having the
courage to take risks and the resilience to bounce back from failures. It means being able to
visualize your dreams and work tirelessly towards achieving them, no matter the obstacles.
Although the ways of an Idan cannot be fully comprehended by mere men, they can be learned
from.
At our core, we represent a new way of being – one that is marked by a deep sense of
self-awareness and empowerment.
We reject the norms and expectations of mainstream society and embrace our own unique path.
We are not afraid to challenge authority and question the status quo, and we use our creativity
and spiritual connection to create a better world for ourselves and those around us.
In a country that is plagued by corruption, inequality, and social injustice, the ways of an Idan
offer a glimmer of hope. We represent a new generation of Nigerian youths who are unafraid to
take risks and challenge the old ways of doing things. And while our practices may seem
strange or even incomprehensible to outsiders, we are a vital part of the rich and diverse
tapestry of Nigerian culture.
The ways of an Idan may be difficult to understand for those who are not part of this unique
subculture. But for Nigerian youths, being an Idan represents a source of pride and
empowerment. By embracing their own unique identities and rejecting the norms and
expectations of mainstream society, they are carving out a new path for themselves – one that is
marked by creativity, spirituality, and a deep sense of self-awareness.
I really hope you start to see some traits of an Idan in you today. Live your life like one, and
things will fall into place for you.
As an Idan, you should wake up and let the sun rise up just to bask in the glory of your
greatness.
As an Idan, you don’t need an umbrella when it rains because you can’t get wet. The rain gets
dry around you.
As an Idan, you should always win staring contests, even against mirrors.
As an Idan, you can’t get lost. You may however occasionally take detours to explore new
areas.
As an Idan!… You get the point. Go forth and live audaciously!
Uncommon Lingos used in this piece
Mula: a common slang term for “money”
Japa: a common slang term that translates to “running away” or “to run away”

 

Written By: Nathaniel