How To Talk To A Strict Nigerian Dad Without Getting Into Trouble

Omo, if you grew up with a strict Nigerian dad, you already know say conversation with him na special course. It’s not ordinary English, it’s survival skills. One wrong sentence and boom, you’ve entered trouble you didn’t plan for.

I remember one time I tried to tell my dad I needed money for an excursion. Instead of saying “Daddy please, can I go?” I just opened my mouth and said, “Dad, I’m going for excursion next week.” Bros didn’t even blink before replying, “Are you the one telling me or asking me?” That was how I ended up missing the trip. Lesson learnt.

So how do you talk to a strict dad and not land yourself in hot soup? Let’s break it down like street gist.

1. Read The Mood First

Don’t ever try to gist your dad when he just entered the house after work, sweating, frowning, and still removing his shoes. That’s not your window of opportunity. If you try it then, my dear, you’ll meet “What rubbish are you saying?” Timing is everything. Wait till he has eaten, maybe watching news with calm face. That’s your golden hour.

2. Respect Is The Password

Forget it, strict dads feed on respect. Even if you’re annoyed, package your tone. You can’t just say, “You don’t understand me.” You’ll collect lecture of the century. Switch it up: “Daddy, I know you have more experience, but let me just share small idea…” That small packaging can save your life.

3. Don’t Drop It Like Bomb, Use Story

Nigerians love gist. If you just throw your request straight, na “No” you go collect. Instead of saying, “Daddy, I want to go out this weekend,” start with, “Daddy, you know Brother Kunle’s son? He told me something about…” By the time you connect your gist well, you’ve softened ground.

4. Don’t Push Too Hard

One thing about strict dads, once they sense you’re trying to win argument by force, they shut down. So even if he says no, don’t cry or argue like Nollywood. Just say, “Okay Daddy, I understand.” Many of them will later call you back when they’ve thought about it. Sometimes their “no” is just a test.

5. Back It Up With Prayer

See, no matter how coded your strategy is, sometimes only God can touch a strict dad’s heart. Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is in God’s hand.” Replace “king” with “Nigerian dad” and you’ll get the point.

Last Gist Before I Go

Let me round up with this small advice… don’t see your strict dad as enemy. The shouting, the rules, the scary face… na love wrapped in military uniform. Learn his mood, use respect, gist well, and give him time.

At the end of the day, na the same man wey dey warn you not to waste money that will still spend millions on your wedding. Strict love na still love. Just sabi how to handle it.