It is visible from the top of
the Ojota Bridge in Lagos; its walls are redish and easily pass for
those of an industrial estate. But on entry into the large compound, the
sophisticated cars parked outside and the goods on display, give it
away as a large shopping hub. This is China-town, the Nigerian version
of the hundreds of “China-towns” scattered across the world.
Three things make China town,
Lagos stand out. Firstly, it offers an assortment of quality goods made
in China and similar climes. The variety of goods available in China
town cuts across clothing (lace, casual and official outfits), weave-on
of various nationalities, children toys, shoes, bags and decorative
ornaments from across the world.
Secondly, in China town,
price and quality are seriously correlated but ultimately, prices there
are more competitive. According to a big shop owner, some traders come
all the way from Idumota to buy from us for resale. The thirds and most
amazing part of the China town experience comes from listening to
Asians speak impeccable Pidgin English. They bargain in naira, know that
being an “Igebu man” means being stingy among Lagosians and that most
Nigerians like cheaper commodities. Customers who are ready to pay
premium get the best of quality which China has to offer.
In terms of the composition
shoppers, it is common to see, Indians, Lebanese as well as Europeans in
the often crowded parking lots. When they come they often do so as a
whole family. Of course Nigerians make up the bulk of shoppers.
There are several China-towns
across the world one of the largest is in America. According to
Wikipedia, with an estimated population of 90 thousand to 100 thousand
people, Manhattan’s Chinatown is also one of the oldest ethnic Chinese
enclaves outside of Asia, with most of its residents now Mandarin, Min,
or Cantonese-speaking and originating from various regions of China.
Nigeria does not have a
monopoly of China towns in Africa. There are China towns in Ghana, South
Africa, and most of the countries on the West African cost.
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