The idea of moving to a new country and “escaping” Nigeria may sound exciting. You imagine a better life, good-paying jobs, and freedom from the struggles back home. 

Everyone talks about the success stories; how someone’s cousin left Nigeria and is now driving a Benz, or how another person built a house for their parents after just two years abroad. 

But what no one tells you is the difficult side of leaving home.

Truth is, living abroad is not always as glamorous as it looks on Instagram. Many Nigerians move with big dreams, only to face tough realities that no one warned them about. If you’re planning to relocate, it’s best to know these things now so you can be prepared.

Let’s uncover some harsh truths about moving abroad that most people don’t talk about.

1. Loneliness can hit hard

One of the biggest struggles of moving abroad is loneliness. At home, you’re used to seeing family and friends every day. There’s always someone to gist with, places to visit, and events to attend. But when you move abroad, it’s different. You may not know anyone. People are too busy with their own lives, and making new friends takes time.

You will miss family gatherings, birthdays, and weddings.

The time difference can also make it hard to call home. You may feel left out when you see pictures of family events you couldn’t attend. It’s a tough feeling, and no one tells you how much it can affect you.

ALSO READ: Japa: Many Nigerians regret relocating abroad, battling depression

---

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

---

2. Finding a good job is not as easy as you think

Many people believe that once they move abroad, they will immediately get a high-paying job. But it’s not that easy. Some employers prefer people with local experience, and if you don’t have the right qualifications, you may have to take jobs you never imagined doing.

Many Nigerians abroad start with cleaning jobs, working in warehouses, or doing other manual labour they typically wouldn’t consider back home in Nigeria. It takes time to build a good career, and in some cases, people have to go back to school to get the right qualifications. If you don’t prepare for this, you may be disappointed when reality hits.

3. You will miss Nigerian food

It may sound funny, but one of the hardest things about living abroad is missing the food. In Nigeria, food is everywhere; suya on the street, hot puff-puff, your mum’s delicious jollof rice. Abroad, you can’t just walk outside and buy these things.

Yes, there are African stores, but the food is expensive. Sometimes, even when you find the ingredients, the taste is never quite the same. And if you don’t know how to cook, you might find yourself eating bland food that doesn’t satisfy you. The struggle is real!

ALSO READ: The Japa Dream: 5 hilarious struggles Nigerians face abroad

4. Life can feel boring

In Nigeria, there is always something happening. Even with all the struggles, life is lively. You can randomly visit a friend, hear music from the streets, or join a conversation on a public bus. But abroad, life can feel repetitive; work, home, sleep, repeat.

People are always in a rush, and there’s little time for socialising. If you don’t actively try to meet people or engage in activities, life can become lonely and boring. This is something many people don’t expect until they experience it.

5. You may struggle with your identity

When you leave Nigeria, you don’t just move to another country, you move into a new culture. People dress differently, speak differently, and behave differently. You may start questioning your identity. Should you change to fit in? Should you hold on to your Nigerian ways?

Some people find it hard to balance both cultures. Others experience racism or discrimination, making them feel like they don’t belong. Over time, you may even start feeling disconnected from Nigeria but not fully accepted in your new country. It’s a tough situation that many people don’t talk about.

The reality hits

Moving abroad can be a great opportunity, but it’s important to be realistic. It won’t be all luxury and success overnight. There will be struggles, and some days will be tough. But knowing these truths can help you prepare better. 

If you’re planning to move, go with an open mind, have a plan, and be ready for challenges. And no matter where you go, never forget where you come from. Nigeria will always be home.

ALSO READ: 5 signs your friend is about to japa and won’t tell you

The Gleams Foundation, in partnership with REAKTOREnergy Drink, today announced the launch of its highly anticipated School Tour 2025, themed; “Rising Above Limitations.” The initiative, set to kick off in April 2025, will empower thousands of Nigerian youths across five universities (OAU, LAUTECH, UI, BELLS & UNILAG) through panel discussions, mentorship sessions, and electrifying concerts. 

At a press conference held in Ikeja GRA, key stakeholders from the entertainment, entrepreneurship, and media industries gathered to discuss the transformative potential of the initiative. Rex Moses (Otunba Gleams), Founder and CEO of Gleams Foundation, spoke with unwavering conviction about the Foundation’s mission: 

Our dream is to empower thousands of African creatives annually, starting with this School Tour. We’re not just hosting events; we’re building a movement that will redefine what’s possible for Nigeria’s youth.

Franklyn Eluagu, Digital Media Manager at REAKTOR, shared why the partnership was a natural fit: 

REAKTOR is committed to empowering young people, coincidentally the school tour themeRising Above Limitations interprets our Push Your Limits slogan, and Gleams Foundation’svision aligns perfectly with our values. Together, we’re creating platforms for creativity, innovation, and growth.

Ibrahim Oladele Kadiri, Managing Director of Boomplay, highlighted the importance of talent development: 

Nigeria is brimming with untapped potential. Initiatives like this School Tour are critical to nurturing the next generation of African stars.

Veteran Nollywood actor Tony Umez echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for mentorship: 

We have a responsibility to guide young Nigerians, equip them with creative skills, and show them the path to a brighter future.

The press conference, attended by media houses and industry stakeholders, set the stage for what promises to be a groundbreaking initiative. 

The Rising Above Limitations School Tour will kick off in April 2025 with: 

– Panel Discussions: Featuring industry leaders like Tony Umez, Phyna, and Rotimi Salami amongst others. 

– Concerts: Headlined by Nigerian artists, with REAKTOR as the official ticket partner.

---

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

---

#FeaturedPost

In line with International Women’s Day 2025 and its theme #AccelerateAction, emPLE, a leading force in Nigeria’s financial services sector, launched the “Empower HER” campaign, an initiative aimed at providing financial security for businesswomen who play a vital role in sustaining local markets.

As part of the campaign, emPLE is offering free 1-year ShopProtect insurance to female entrepreneurs, ensuring their businesses remain protected against unforeseen risks. Their journeys, marked by resilience, challenges, and the realities of running a business have been captured in a powerful documentary, Watch here.

With risks like fire and theft posing constant threats, ShopProtect provides a vital safety net, allowing these women to focus on growth with confidence. 

ShopProtect is designed for business owners with shops, offering accessible and affordable coverage that guarantees stability in times of uncertainty.

The “Empower HER” campaign underscores emPLE’s commitment to financial inclusion and security, reinforcing its role in supporting small businesses and driving long-term economic resilience.

For more information on ShopProtect, click here.

About emPLE

emPLE is a leading financial services company dedicated to providing insurance and investment solutions to retail and corporate clients across Africa. At emPLE, our purpose is to empower Africans by providing innovative financial solutions that enhance their freedom, security, and prosperity. We believe that true empowerment comes from providing not just access to financial products but also the knowledge and tools necessary for our customers to make informed decisions and achieve financial independence. 

For more information about emPLE, visit: www.emple.group

---

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

---

#FeaturedPost