Popular Childhood Games We Played as Kids in Nigeria

Before smartphones and video games took over, Nigerian children had their own creative and energetic ways of having fun. These games, often played after school or on weekends, brought joy, friendship, and sometimes a little healthy competition. Most didn’t require fancy equipment—just imagination, open spaces, and fellow kids.

Let’s revisit some of the unforgettable childhood games we played growing up in Nigeria.

1. Suwe (Hopscotch)

This game involved drawing boxes on the ground and hopping through them on one leg, often with a stone or marker to pick up along the way. It was especially popular among girls and tested balance, coordination, and agility.

2. Ten-Ten

Usually played by two girls standing face-to-face, Ten-Ten was a hand-and-foot rhythm game where you had to mirror or mismatch movements quickly. A mistake meant losing a point, and it often ended in laughter.

3. Boju-Boju (Hide and Seek)

A classic! One child would cover their face and count while others hid. Then they’d yell “Boju boju o, who dey under the mask?” and go hunting for the hidden ones. It was suspenseful and exciting.

4. Catching (Police and Thief)

This tag-style game had children playing the role of thieves being chased by “police.” Fast-paced and full of running, it was one of the best ways to burn energy while having fun.

5. Fire on the Mountain

Players moved in a circle as a song was sung, then rushed to find a partner or seat when the singing stopped. The one left out was out of the game. It combined music, attention, and quick reaction.

6. Tinko-Tinko

This was a clapping game that came with its own songs and rhythms. It helped build coordination and was a bonding activity among friends, especially during break time in school.

7. Sand Cooking / Pretend Market

Popular among younger children, especially girls, this game involved using leaves, sand, tins, and stones to “cook” meals or “sell” in a pretend market. It was creative role-playing at its best.

8. Suwe Suwe / Skipping Rope

Group skipping with chants and rhythms was a favorite pastime. Everyone took turns jumping into the rope and chanting rhymes in unison. It was fun, active, and often competitive.

Conclusion

These games remind us of simpler times when play was about connection, laughter, and imagination. They helped shape our social skills, built friendships, and created memories that still bring smiles today.

Which of these childhood games do you remember the most? Share your favorite in the comments!

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