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Belinda Chiazor Writer and Filmmaker @ Middle Girl Produ...
city Lagos, Nigeria
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In Literature, Writing and Blogging • 2 min read • Jun 15, 2024 23:42p.m.
The ‘Billing’ Culture In Lagos.

<p><img src="/media/inline_insight_image/d0d994a9-fdf6-4acd-8f48-e15ed19ae1b6.jpeg"><br></p><p>I’m getting set to direct my first feature film, and I’ve discovered something: Lagosians can never pass up on a chance to “bill” you. I've contacted countless potential cast and crew to work on my upcoming project, and the prices I’ve heard are astonishing.&nbsp;</p><p><em>You people did not tell me you’re rich in this my industry o.&nbsp;&nbsp;I don haggle price soteyyyy, mouth dey pain me, and if this billing continues like this, they will send me back to my village by the time I’m done.&nbsp;</em></p><p>For those reading who are unfamiliar with what we call billing…</p><p>…The <em>Oyibo</em>, a.k.a Google&nbsp;definition has two meanings:</p><p>1. Being advertised or described in a particular way, e.g., “they can justify their billing as Premier League favorites.”</p><p>2. The process of preparing or sending invoices, e.g., “Faster, more accurate order fulfillment and billing.”</p><p>&nbsp;But in Naija, "billing" typically refers to the act of constantly asking for money or financial assistance from someone. It can also be a regular provider of any goods or service constantly hiking their prices when they want to sell to you. Here, it can almost feel like exploitation, especially when folks think you’re swimming in money.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Essentially, whenever the opportunity arises, whether someone is providing the most basic service or just assumes you have money, you’ll face billing at least once a month in this country — especially in Lagos.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Lerus hope by the time i eventually shoot this movie, money go remain to even see garri drink for house. Odiegwu ooo.&nbsp;</em></p>

billing culture lagos living my filmmaking journey

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