Nigerians in the Diaspora Are Suffering and Smiling: Why You Should Not Travel Abroad

The Grass Isn’t Always Greener: Debunking the Myth of Easy Success Abroad and Why You Should Invest in Nigeria

Why Staying in Nigeria Could Be Your Best Choice: The Untold Struggles of the Diaspora

The allure of the “greener pastures” abroad has always been a magnetic pull for many Nigerians. A life free from the everyday struggles faced in Nigeria—erratic power supply, corruption, lack of job opportunities, among others—sounds like a dream. But how true is this perception? Is the grass really greener on the other side? In this article, we will unravel the untold stories of Nigerians in the diaspora, the “suffering and smiling” many undergo, and why staying in Nigeria could be your best bet.

The Illusion of The ‘Abroad’

A False Sense of Prosperity

Social media platforms are rife with images of Nigerians abroad living lavish lifestyles. What these photos and status updates don’t show are the struggles they face, the multiple jobs they juggle, the racial and cultural discrimination, and the heartache of being far away from home.

The Price of a Visa

The pursuit of a visa can be an arduous and expensive process. Stories abound of individuals who have sold property, emptied savings, and even borrowed money at high-interest rates, all for a shot at life abroad.

Reality Check: Life Abroad

Mental Health Impacts

Many Nigerians in the diaspora experience high levels of stress and mental health issues due to a lack of social support, discrimination, and the pressures to succeed, which is rarely discussed openly.

Job Market Struggles

It’s no secret that many well-qualified Nigerians often end up in menial jobs due to the lack of ‘local experience’ or outright discrimination. The unemployment rate among immigrants is significantly higher than among native-born citizens in many Western countries.

The Strain on Family

For those who travel alone, the distance from family can be emotionally draining. Parents miss out on seeing their children grow, while young people may have to navigate the complexities of a new culture on their own.

Untapped Opportunities in Nigeria

The Tech Boom

Nigeria’s tech industry is booming, offering a plethora of opportunities for young, tech-savvy individuals. With companies like Flutterwave and Andela making international headlines, the sector promises a lucrative career for those willing to engage.

Agricultural Revolution

Agriculture is another sector in Nigeria that has untapped potential. With a vast expanse of arable land and a growing focus on self-sustainability, now is the time to invest in agriculture.

Creative Industries

From Nollywood to the music industry and fashion, Nigeria’s creative industries are gaining global recognition. These sectors offer countless opportunities for innovative minds.

The Power of Community

Living in Nigeria gives you a sense of community that is often missing abroad. The family support, the festivals, the local foods, and the music are integral parts of Nigerian life that you won’t find elsewhere.

Reconsidering the Narrative: Success Stories at Home

It’s easy to get lost in the narrative that success can only be found outside Nigeria’s borders. However, countless entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals have found their calling and achieved remarkable success right here. Names like Aliko Dangote, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Wizkid didn’t need to leave Nigeria to make their mark on the world stage.

Social Entrepreneurship

The rise of social entrepreneurship in Nigeria is another compelling reason to stay. Young leaders are tackling some of Nigeria’s most pressing problems—from education and healthcare to renewable energy—and turning them into profitable ventures. Your innovative idea could be the next big solution to a national issue.

Citizenship Responsibility

As a citizen, one has a moral duty to contribute to the growth and development of their country. Instead of seeking greener pastures abroad, consider how your skills and talents could benefit your homeland. The more people leave, the fewer remain to instigate the change we so desperately need.

Financial Freedom

The cost of living in many Western countries can be exorbitantly high. From rent and healthcare to education, the expenses can quickly add up, trapping individuals in a cycle of endless work and limited freedom. On the other hand, life in Nigeria, despite its challenges, offers more room for financial growth and flexibility.

Building Legacies

Creating a lasting impact or building a legacy is more feasible on home soil. Here, you understand the nuances of the culture, the needs of the people, and the gaps in the market. Building a legacy abroad often means adapting to a new culture and overcoming additional barriers, which might hinder your progress and fulfillment.

Your Skills Are Needed Here

The brain drain has left a vacuum in several professional sectors in Nigeria, from healthcare to academia. By choosing to stay, you’re not just making a personal choice; you’re making a patriotic one. Your skills and expertise can significantly impact sectors that are in desperate need of revitalization.

Time for Reflection and Action

The narrative that the key to a successful life lies outside Nigeria is outdated and incomplete. While life abroad has its perks, it also comes with its own set of unique challenges, many of which are glossed over in the glamorous portrayals we often see. The reality is that no place is perfect; every country has its set of problems and opportunities. What makes the difference is what you choose to focus on.

Nigeria, for all its challenges, is a land teeming with untapped potential. The nation’s youth have the power to drive change and build a future that can rival any developed country. But for that to happen, it’s important for us to recognize the value of what we have here and invest our energies into improving it. Sometimes, the best opportunities lie not in distant lands but right under our noses.

So, before you make that life-changing decision to migrate, take a moment to consider what you may be leaving behind. The road to success may be closer than you think.

While the thought of migrating may seem like a ticket to a better life, the reality can be far different. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Nigeria, despite its challenges, offers untapped opportunities and the advantage of a supportive community. Before you book that flight, consider investing your skills, talents, and energy right here at home. Sometimes the grass is greener where you water it.