Original BB

Bread and Beans, Lagos is incomplete without it; as even toddlers are oriented about it. Sooner than later, they know about Agege bread and Agonyi beans. You even see them stand outside their houses listening for the voice of the Agege bread seller. Soon the little chumps call the hawkers with or without their mothers’ consent, “Agege byead!!”  Ahahn! Wetin they put inside?

 I don’t know the secret formula. Cocacola must have learned a thing or two hundred about keeping the formula the same because numerous Lagosians can testify to a promise kept and value delivered as they tear great chunks of Agege bread and swipe some beans off the plate. The art is made more interesting as a hole is scientifically created in the middle of the bread, then a syrupy spoon of beans is poured down the hole and the soft bread absorbs the “red oyel”. Chei!!

Bread and Bean cakes (akara), have served Nigerians since the 1600s. The Economist would tell you that bread and akara are complementary goods - (A bit of insight for Eco 101 students). Lol!! Obalende in Lagos is a popular hot spot for these akara sellers. This time, even well dressed professionals stop to buy a ready breakfast from these boys. The light brown balls simmering in hot oil send wafts of temptation up the nostrils of passers-by. The dust and fumes from the nearby traffic perhaps add a distinctive flavour that makes the roadside purchase more alluring than the homemade meal. This is one original BB.

Bread and Butter, this one is universal and loved by Nigerians everywhere. It serves as a quick breakfast to start off the day. It goes with tea, beverage or a soft drink.

Before the Blackberry was a BB, these original BBs existed in Naija. Naija folks have their own unique and creative ways of doing things. Even our culture ministers!!