Why Nigeria Is Truly The Land Of The Free: Debunking The ‘Greener Pastures’ Myth Of Living Abroad

Why Nigeria Is Truly The Land Of The Free: Debunking The ‘Greener Pastures’ Myth Of Living Abroad

Rediscovering Home: Why Nigeria is the True Land of Opportunity and Freedom

From the bustling markets of Lagos to the serene beaches of Calabar, from the lush landscapes of the Obudu Plateau to the historic sites of Sokoto, Nigeria offers a tapestry of experiences, opportunities, and freedom that no other country can match. While many have sought greener pastures abroad, often in North American or European countries, the story of the Nigerian diaspora is often one tinged with disillusionment and unspoken challenges.

For years, there has been a perception that life in developed countries like Canada or the United States is easier, more prosperous, and more fulfilling. This has led many Nigerians to pursue opportunities overseas, taking on the significant financial, emotional, and social costs of uprooting their lives. However, it’s crucial to critically examine these assumptions. Is the grass truly greener on the other side?

The Hidden Costs of Living Abroad

While developed nations offer certain amenities and a standard of living that might be enviable, these come with their own set of problems. In Canada, for example, the high cost of living can be a significant source of stress. Routine expenses like rent, utilities, groceries, and health care can quickly consume a large portion of one’s income.

In addition to the financial burden, the societal norms and culture can also be difficult to navigate for Nigerians abroad. Social isolation, discrimination, and the challenges of integrating into a new culture can take a mental and emotional toll.

The True Freedom Nigeria Offers

In contrast, Nigeria offers a kind of freedom that is unparalleled. In Nigeria, the cost of living is significantly lower, allowing for a better quality of life with less financial strain. You can own a house and land, something that would require a lifetime of savings and a hefty mortgage in the West.

Moreover, Nigeria offers the freedom to be yourself — to live and celebrate your culture without the constant pressure to assimilate into a foreign way of life. The communal nature of Nigerian society provides a robust social and emotional support system. The freedom to rely on friends, family, and even neighbors in times of need is a priceless advantage.

The Untapped Opportunities in Nigeria

It’s a common saying that “Naija no dey carry last.” This sentiment holds, especially when it comes to business and innovation. Nigeria’s emerging markets, burgeoning tech industry, and diverse economic opportunities offer a wealth of possibilities that are often overlooked. From agriculture to tech startups, the opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria are ripe for the taking.

The Importance of Family and Community

In Nigerian culture, the concept of family extends far beyond the nuclear family and includes extended family, neighbors, and even entire communities. This network serves as a safety net, providing emotional, financial, and social support. For those raising children, the Nigerian educational system, while not without its challenges, offers the benefit of cultural and historical education that instills a strong sense of identity.

Preserving and Nurturing Our Heritage

One of the often-overlooked aspects of staying in Nigeria is the opportunity to preserve our rich cultural heritage. In Western countries, our unique traditions, languages, and customs often get diluted and lost through generations. While this might be considered a necessary sacrifice for the promise of a “better life,” the reality is that many Nigerians abroad find themselves experiencing a cultural vacuum. Our traditional foods, music, festivals, and even our languages can be sidelined, and our children grow up without a deep connection to their roots.

Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Living abroad can lead to elevated stress levels due to the myriad challenges one faces—from navigating a new environment to dealing with racial or ethnic stereotypes. In Nigeria, the presence of a strong community, familiar culture, and supportive network can significantly reduce mental and emotional stress. The importance of this factor cannot be underestimated, especially when it comes to raising a family.

Nigeria’s Future Depends on Its People

If all the best minds, talents, and resources continue to migrate, it’s a loss not just for the individuals who struggle to fit into a foreign land but also for Nigeria as a whole. Our country is rapidly developing, and we need committed, talented individuals to contribute to this growth. The more we invest in our own country—whether it’s in business, education, or social programs—the faster we’ll see improvements in the standard of living for everyone.

Resilience and Independence

Nigerians are known for their resilience and independence. The sense of freedom that comes from overcoming challenges on your home turf cannot be replicated. Achieving success in Nigeria provides a sense of accomplishment that succeeding abroad does not offer because the odds here are perceived to be greater.

Healthcare and Nature’s Healing

While Nigeria’s healthcare system has its own set of challenges, living in Nigeria offers easier access to natural remedies and traditional methods of healing that have been passed down through generations. The Nigerian climate, rich in sunshine and warmth, also provides its own set of health benefits, especially for those who suffer from seasonal affective disorders in colder climates.

The Bottom Line

There are difficulties and challenges in every corner of the world. The idea that migrating to a foreign country will provide a trouble-free life is a myth that has been debunked by numerous stories of Nigerians who have made the pilgrimage and returned, or wish they could.

Instead of viewing Nigeria solely through the lens of its problems, it’s time to start focusing on the opportunities and advantages it offers. As more and more Nigerians return from abroad, bringing with them skills, perspectives, and a desire for change, the nation only stands to benefit. Let’s not forget the unmatched freedom that comes from living in a land that you can truly call your own.

It’s high time we embrace the truth that the grass is not always greener on the other side. In many ways, the lush, fertile ground we seek is right under our feet, in our beloved Nigeria, the true land of the free.

Final Thoughts

While no country is without its challenges, the idea that life is invariably better abroad is a myth that needs debunking. Nigeria offers a unique blend of opportunities, cultural richness, and a sense of community that you cannot easily replicate in a foreign land. In Nigeria, you’re not just another immigrant trying to fit in; you are in the land of your ancestors, a place where you truly belong. It’s time to look inward and recognize that Nigeria is truly the land of the free, and it’s time for more of us to realize, appreciate, and utilize the freedom and opportunities available right here at home.