Adages of the Week

Adages of the Week

Hausa Adage

“Komai nisan jifa, ƙasa zai dawo.”
(No matter how far a stone is thrown, it will eventually land on the ground.)

Meaning & Lesson

This Hausa proverb underscores the inevitability of consequences. Every action, no matter how distant or delayed its results may seem, eventually produces an outcome. In northern Nigerian society, this proverb serves as a constant reminder that truth and justice will surface, regardless of time.

Modern Applications

Leadership & Governance: Politicians and leaders who misuse power may appear untouchable in the short term, but their actions eventually ‘land.’ Citizens expect accountability, and history judges them.

Business & Trade: A company that cuts corners or mistreats customers may profit briefly, but reputation always catches up. Conversely, integrity may take longer to show results, but it leads to sustainable growth.

Personal Life: For young Nigerians striving for success, this proverb is a reassurance — hard work, though it may take years, will eventually pay off.

Diaspora Relevance

For Nigerians abroad, this proverb resonates deeply. Many face challenges adapting to new systems, jobs, and cultures. The reminder that every honest effort eventually ‘lands’ offers encouragement. Whether through remittances, community contributions, or personal success, the impact of diaspora Nigerians always circles back to enrich both host countries and Nigeria.

Igbo Adage

“A na-amaghị ama atụ ụjọ mmiri, a gaghị aga n’osu mmiri..”
(If one is afraid of water, one should not venture into the river.)

Meaning & Lesson

This Igbo proverb stresses the importance of courage and preparedness. Life’s opportunities often lie in risky waters; those unwilling to take risks cannot enjoy the blessings within. In traditional Igbo culture, rivers symbolize both sustenance and danger. To harvest fish, fetch water, or cross to new lands, one had to overcome fear.

Modern Applications

Entrepreneurship: Nigeria’s startup ecosystem thrives on boldness. From fintech to e-commerce, founders who enter uncharted waters are those who reap the rewards.

Youth Development: For students, it’s a lesson that examinations, competitions, and career paths require courage. Shying away only guarantees stagnation.

Governance & Reform: Policies that transform societies often seem unpopular or risky at first. Leaders who avoid risk seldom achieve lasting progress.

Diaspora Relevance

For diaspora Nigerians, this proverb reminds them of the bravery required to leave familiar ground. Whether settling in Houston, London, or Toronto, courage defines survival. Learning new skills, navigating immigration systems, and competing globally all reflect this adage. It also reminds the diaspora community that investing back in Nigeria may be challenging, but avoiding the ‘river’ altogether ensures no gain.

Yoruba Adage

“Ọmọ tó bá mọ́ ọwọ́ wẹ́, á bá àgbà jẹun.”
(A child that learns how to wash his hands will dine with elders.)

Meaning & Lesson

This Yoruba proverb celebrates discipline, respect, and preparation. In Yoruba tradition, handwashing before a communal meal was a symbol of cleanliness and humility. Dining with elders represented entry into spaces of wisdom, leadership, and privilege. The message is clear: preparation opens doors to opportunities that might otherwise be closed.

Modern Applications

Education: For Nigerian students, washing one’s hands symbolizes studying hard, respecting teachers, and cultivating discipline — the very habits that attract mentorship and scholarships.

Workplace & Professional Growth: Employees who demonstrate integrity, punctuality, and skill earn the trust of leaders and are invited into boardrooms and leadership discussions.

Community & Governance: Societies that uphold values of accountability and preparation are respected globally, dining metaphorically with ‘elders’ in the community of nations.

Diaspora Relevance

For Nigerians abroad, this proverb carries both cultural nostalgia and practical wisdom. Many in the diaspora gain respect and opportunity abroad by embodying discipline and preparation. From medical doctors to tech engineers, those who ‘wash their hands’ — mastering new standards and systems — find themselves welcomed into circles of global leadership. It also encourages diaspora Nigerians to prepare themselves to give back, ensuring that when they ‘return home,’ they sit at the table of national development.

Chrome Perspective

Taken together, these three adages provide a blueprint for modern Nigerian life — both at home and abroad.

• The Hausa proverb reminds us of consequences: everything we do will come back, whether for reward or accountability.

• The Igbo proverb challenges us to take courage: those unwilling to risk cannot access the riches of opportunity.

• The Yoruba proverb highlights preparation: discipline and humility guarantee access to places of honor.

In today’s Nigeria — facing economic shifts, diaspora migration, and global competition — these lessons form a cultural compass. They tell young Nigerians that actions matter, courage is necessary, and preparation is key. They remind leaders that history will judge, that bold reforms are required, and that discipline unlocks global respect.

For the diaspora, they speak of identity and resilience: no matter how far from home, Nigerian values remain anchors. Whether in Lagos or London, Kano or California, Port Harcourt or New York, these timeless words remain guides.

At Chrome News, we believe that wisdom from Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba cultures is not merely folklore — it is a living resource for Africa’s future in governance, business, diaspora leadership, and cultural pride. By weaving these voices together weekly, Chrome Roots will not only preserve heritage but also inspire generations to rise, lead, and impact the world.