Comedian, Godwin Komone, aka Gordons, tells OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL about an exciting travel experience
How many countries have you visited?
I have visited many countries. I actually cannot remember them all.
To which country was your favourite trip?
That was my first trip abroad. I went to Germany. It was beautiful as I had to go through Spain. The experience was a wonderful one for me because that was the first time I was going out of the country. I was able to see all the things I had been reading about in books.
What were some of the specific things that made the experience spectacular?
That was also the first time I went abroad to perform for non-Nigerians. Aside from Nigerians, there were Spaniards, Germans and Chinese people in the audience.
What was the strangest food you ate while there?
As a Warri (Delta State) boy, I had not travelled much at that time. I was only used to our local foods such as banga and owo soups. That was the first time I tasted semolina as they do not eat garri (eba) there. It was challenging but I found it interesting.
What did you miss the most about Nigeria while you were away?
One’s country will always be one’s country, irrespective of where one goes. Whenever I am away from Nigeria, I usually cannot wait to come back home. I did not feel as safe and accepted as I do when in Nigeria. Also, whenever it gets very cold, I often cannot wait to return home.
What are some of the notable things you have learnt in the course of your travels?
When I was in Berlin (capital of Germany), I learnt that one cannot just show up at people’s houses unannounced, regardless of one relationship with them. Instead, they could report one to the police. I was not used to that kind of life. As a matter of fact, it felt really strange to me.
Did you make any friends while on the trip?
I made some friends with people from other African countries but who were living. I could not really make friends with the Germans because of language barrier.
What is the biggest culture shock you had while there?
I recall that I was invited to have a dinner and when I got there, I met people there naked. I did not feel comfortable at all. It actually felt like an orgy house abut they claimed it was because of their religion. That really shocked me.
How receptive were the people towards you?
After my comedy performance, some of them became friends with me. They then started treating me like a celebrity.
Did the people you met there know about Nigeria?
Yes, some of them had come across some Nigerians with certain traits, so they had a perception about Nigerians beforehand. But, they are usually shocked when one acts and behaves differently, then they realise one has a different character from the people they had earlier encountered.
Were you stereotyped based on where you came from?
I was not stereotyped. I was actually eager to experience other people’s cultures. Black people all over the world are usually looked down upon, but I was willing to learn.
What tourist attraction did you visit during your stay?
I went to their parliament. I realised that the parliamentarians sat downstairs, while the citizens sat upstairs.
I also noticed that the floor was transparent, and I asked them why. They said they believe the power of the people is more than the power of the government, and the implication is that, the people have the right to step on the government.
What did you see in other climes that you will like to see replicated in Nigeria?
In Germany, I found out that teaching was one of the most paid professions. When I asked why, they said one cannot have more money than the people who taught one. I wish we can inculcate that into the Nigerian system. Majority of our teachers are suffering. They do not even make as much money as some students. If God gives me an opportunity to be in power in this country, that is one of the things I will adopt.
What are your go-to travel items
Whenever I am travelling, I always go with my little music box and boots (for cold weather. I also travel with enough ‘hoodies’, and I do not play with my toiletries. I also travel with enough of that
What word of advice do you have for intending travellers?
When one is leaving one’s country for another country, one should be open-minded. Sometimes, it might not be easy but if possible, try their food, learn about their cultures and copy something good for your country. There is no need trying and to rediscover electricity, because that has been done already.
What countries are on your bucket list?
I will love to visit Jamaica, Brazil and Seychelles
Were you recognised by anyone as a celebrity while there?
Yes. Some Nigerians over there recognised and respected me.
If you were to be offered automatic citizenship by any country, where would you prefer?
I will love to have UK citizenship. I really love London.
Were there any similarities between Germany and Nigeria?
Not at all. The way and reason they do things are totally different from us. It was a whole new world for me.
