Watch out for the "area boys" with hyenas on chains (just to intimidate)

make sure you try to learn the local slangs so as not to appear as a "jjc Johnny just come" phrases like "how far" which stands for wussup is not a bad start :)

be on the alert for "area boys" and motor park touts that pretend to help.

Lived there for work for 16 months. Lovely people, but no infrastructure. If you don't mind no electricity or potable water but lots of mosquitoes...this is the place for you.

Beware of the custom officers who are likely to see any chance to rip you off. Especially, they will be picky on anything to get some money out of you.

When u r in a big west african city hire a guide. It costs few $ and he'll show u what u want 2 see and will keep u out of trouble. The trick is 2 find a good one. In coastel cities u can find the best ones in port. They usually provide their services to seaman visiting with a ship.