Popular philanthropist, entertainer and content creator Brian Jonah popularly known as Hydra, shook his comment section online after sharing his personal ranking of the most hospitable states in Nigeria.
Brian, who says he has travelled to 31 of the country’s 36 states, recently released his list of the top ten friendliest states based on his personal experience interacting with locals, enjoying the culture and observing how visitors are treated.
While making the ranking, he deliberately left out Rivers State, his state of origin, as well as the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, where he currently lives. According to him, the exclusion was to ensure the list reflected only places he experienced purely as a guest.
Sharing his impressions from his travels, he began the list with Akwa Ibom State, which he described as a state known for beautiful women, great food and friendly men who enjoy alcohol and bush meat.
Anambra State also stood out to him for what he called a combination of wealth and humility. He praised the hardworking nature of the people and their ability to enjoy life, while also claiming the state serves the best egusi soup in Nigeria.
Speaking on Bayelsa State, Brian described a culture where a guest is treated like royalty. He also highlighted the abundance of fish dishes and the natural beauty of the women.
For Enugu State, he pointed to its rich culture and the refined taste of its residents, noting that people there often go out of their way to entertain guests.
He described Cross River State as a serene place where everyone is welcomed warmly, saying locals treat visitors with kindness and dignity and rarely see anyone as a stranger.
Moving northward, Gombe State also impressed him. According to him, visitors in the state often feel safe and welcomed, while its nightlife and food also leave strong impressions.
Taraba State was another northern state he praised, describing its people as smart, decent and friendly. He also called the state one of the most underrated places in the North-East.
In the South-West, Ondo State made the list for its relaxed atmosphere, pleasant weather and easygoing residents.
Plateau State also earned a place on the ranking, with Brian describing its people as some of the most cheerful in the country. According to him, beer culture and lively social gatherings play a big role in the state’s social life.
Rounding off the list was Delta State, particularly the city of Warri. He said people there are largely focused on making money and enjoying life with friends and family, maintaining what he described as a generally peaceful and vibrant environment.
Though the ranking reflects Brian’s personal experience, it has already created different point of views online, with many Nigerians sharing their own opinions about which states best represent hospitality and friendliness across the country.
