A History of my World in 100 Objects #6: Am A Jeweler

I deal full time in the sale of imitation jewellery at the Lagos International Trade Fair. Mondays are always the most expectancy-filled days of the week for traders in this massive complex because that is when buyers from all over come by the busloads. The business is tasking but with the correct combination of factors, it is also rewarding.

Its also a trade that's threatened by the incessant unrest and violence around the country. Most importers in this line of business rely on supply from China and India (who does not, these days) and rely on demand from all regions in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Benin, Cameroun and who knows where else. Any form of unrest, especially within Nigeria is a source of concern. Northern Nigeria is a sore topic for us as the northerners are the major consumers of these products. While those in authority wring their fingers over how to secure peace within our borders, we continue to hope and pray things do not get so bad that this inter-regional trade cannot continue.