For decades, the idea of leaving Nigeria for “greener pastures” has been the ultimate aspiration. Japa is no longer just slang; it’s a movement, a mission, a lifeline. It’s the dream of a better life, more opportunities, stronger currencies, and the kind of success that lets you send dollars back home and still have enough to ball out in December.
But here’s the uncomfortable question: Is it really paying off?
For every Instagram story of Nigerians thriving abroad, there’s another story—one that doesn’t make the feed. The one where people are working two, three jobs just to survive. Where the cost of living swallows most of the paycheck before it even lands. Where homesickness feels like an ache that never fully leaves.
So, let’s talk about it. Let’s break down the real cost of the dream.
1. Financial Reality: More Money, More Problems?
One of the biggest selling points of leaving Nigeria is the idea that you’ll earn in foreign currency—dollars, pounds, euros—currencies that stretch far beyond what the naira could ever dream of. But the truth is, many Nigerians abroad aren’t exactly rolling in wealth.
Yes, the pay is higher. But so is the cost of living. Rent is high. Taxes are high. Bills are relentless. And with inflation hitting even “first-world” economies, many find themselves trapped in a cycle where the money comes in fast, but leaves even faster.
And let’s not forget the silent Black Tax—the unspoken responsibility of sending money home. Parents need support. Siblings need help. Cousins are looking for job opportunities. The pressure is real, and for many, it’s unsustainable.
So, while it may look like success on the outside, the reality is that a significant percentage of Nigerians abroad are living paycheck to paycheck—just in a stronger currency.
2. The Emotional Toll: Loneliness, Stress, and Burnout
Success abroad comes at a cost that isn’t always financial—it’s emotional, mental, and psychological.
The reality of being a foreigner in another man’s land is one that many Nigerians underestimate. No matter how long you stay, you’re never fully one of them. The accents, the cultural differences, the lack of a true sense of belonging—it chips away at you.
Then there’s the grind culture. In countries like the US and UK, hustle culture is a badge of honour, but for many Nigerians, it’s a necessity. Working multiple jobs, doing side gigs, and chasing stability often lead to burnout.
And what about loneliness? Many Nigerians arrive abroad and find themselves in a cycle of work-home-work-home with no social fabric to soften the isolation. No impromptu visits from family, no Owambes, no easy access to the chaotic warmth of home. For some, it’s just cold weather and colder interactions.
3. The Hidden Regret: “If I Had Known…”
Some Nigerians in the diaspora won’t admit it out loud, but if they had the chance to do it again, they might reconsider.
Many left home believing they’d be millionaires in a few years, only to realize that financial freedom isn’t as automatic as it seemed. They assumed moving abroad would solve all their problems, only to discover a new set of challenges.
They miss the food, the culture, the ease of help. They watch their peers in Nigeria launch businesses, buy land, and build wealth, while they’re still buried in bills. And some start wondering: Was this really worth it?
So, Are Nigerians in the Diaspora Really Winning?
The answer is complicated. For some, yes—moving abroad has been a life-changing opportunity. But for others, the dream has turned into a struggle.
It all comes down to this: What does success actually mean to you?
- If it’s about having access to a stable system, higher pay, and security—yes, you may be winning.
- If it’s about financial freedom, family connection, and an easier life—it’s worth questioning whether you’re truly getting ahead.
The Nigerian dream abroad isn’t a one-size-fits-all success story. It’s a deeply personal experience, shaped by financial realities, emotional resilience, and the ability to adapt.
The Conversation Continues…
This is just the beginning. Next week, we’ll dive deeper into the financial expectations placed on Nigerians abroad—the Black Tax, remittances, and when helping back home becomes a burden.
Until then, let’s talk.
Are Nigerians abroad really winning, or is it all just survival wrapped in a foreign currency? Share your thoughts with us on social media or in the comments section.
Because the real story of the diaspora? It’s still being written
