Neighbors (Radio Series) - Nigeria

Produced in Pidgin English and broadcast on private and public radio stations throughout the country, the 15-minute drama series highlights common values and personal idiosyncracies shared by Nigerians. In an attempt to break down stereotypes, the series depicts people from different religious and cultural backgrounds in their efforts to relate to one another. Specifically, set in a locale based in a fictitious country named Beto, the series follows the lives of people from a number of different groups (Yangalas, Ijegons, Turmawas, Ogbotors, and Chua-Chua). Focusing on two families (the Imalotis, a middle class Ijegon family, and the Elawis, a Yangale family), the series explores issues like inter-ethnic marriage, religious tolerance, cultural dominance, politics and ethnic patriotism, citizenship, and discrimination.

Conflict.

The choice of radio as the medium of broadcast is based on its popularity, accessibility, and flexibility as a channel of communication in Nigeria. Likewise, drama is in line with the African tradition of passing on information about sensitive and serious issues that cannot be easily discussed.