Choosing To Learn The Hausa Language Paid of massively

I used to think learning different languages was a huge waste of time, Why bother learning them when majority of Nigeria's population speaks or atleast understands the general language - English. These were words I always tell myself to make up for my terrible language skills and there was literally nothing anybody would tell me then that could my perspective as a young lad. However as I grew older, a lot of events around me began to stir up a shift from this particular point of view.

Born and raised in the Northern part of the country, I noticed there were countless opportunities I missed out on simply because I sucked at Hausa, the native language of that area. Initially I thought I could still pull through without it until I got a job as sales representative and I had to attend to customers directly. Unfortunately for me, most of our customers were Hausa speaking individuals and the labourers in the store barely understood a single English word so I either have to learn or endure frustration every single day. I chose the former forcing myself to adapt until I could hold meaning conversation with my colleagues and this very decision has been of massive assistance to me ever since.

Today the Hausa language saved me from starvation in the most silliest way possible. Since moving to Ilaje (a local government area in Ondo state) three days ago I have been unable to purchase a good meal as I do not know my way around and don't have the necessary equipments for cooking. Tired of eating only junks and expensive meals that will never satiet my hunger, I decided to go for a walk hoping to see someplace better. I was extremely hungry as I haven't eaten anything all day and it was almost 3pm. The people I asked for directions all gave me different answers and when they realized I was a corper most wanted to cheat me.
After walking for what felt like hours, I finally saw a petty trader with the look of a typical Hausa man. Relieved I rushed up to him and spoke to him in Hausa saying:
"Good evening sorry for disturbing you but I am new here, very hungry and I am looking for where I can get something to eat at a cheaper rate".
He looked up with a smile on his face and the first thing he said was: "where did learn how to speak Hausa?". I told him I grew in the north and with that information alone, he told me he was going to show me the place himself. He left his store, took me a place where he bought me a full meal of rice with beans and told me that Incase I needed help like directions or where to get stuff I should come straight to him anytime. He went as far as giving me his number and some onions as a parting gift.

I am still shocked by how the whole thing played out and honestly speaking through the reminder of my service year, I am going to make sure I patronize this man and ask him for refers so I can patronize his friends as well. The Hausa language fed me today, I will never forget this kindness for the rest of my life.
Thank you Mr Usman, I am forever grateful.
PS: All the pictures belong to me