For many Nigerians, relocating abroad starts with excitement. There is the promise of better opportunities, a good job, a stronger currency, and the chance to build a new life. But after the suitcases are unpacked and the excitement settles, many newcomers discover that life abroad comes with its own challenges.
FunTimes Magazine spoke with Nigerians living in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada about what they wish someone had told them before they relocated, and the answers are ones many of us will recognize.
“Your salary may not go as far as you think” – Faith, United Kingdom.
I wish someone had sat me down before I packed my bags and told me the truth, not to discourage me, but to prepare me. No one warned me about the bills. That salary that looked massive back home can suddenly feel very small when the rent, council tax, food, transport, childcare, and other daily expenses start taking their share. Financial literacy is one of the most important things newcomers should learn before relocating.
“Your first job may not be your dream job” – Onyema, Canada.
I wish someone had prepared me for how long it could take to find a job and settle into my new environment. Before relocating, I expected that getting work would be a straightforward part of starting my new life. However, I soon realized that finding the right job could take time. As a newcomer, you have to start somewhere different while gaining Canadian experience and building one step at a time.
Read also: “My first five jobs in the UK taught me more than I expected”
“The cost of living was not what I expected” – Robert, UK.
One of my biggest shocks as an international student was the cost of living. While tuition fees are often planned for, expenses such as rent, groceries, transportation, and healthcare can add up quickly. Rent can consume a large portion of your budget, making it necessary to consider shared accommodations or student housing to cut costs. I wish someone had explained the full cost of living before I packed my bags and relocated.
Research the cost of living in the city where you will be studying and create a realistic budget beforehand. This will help you avoid financial stress.
“It will feel like you are working for the government” – Precious, USA.
I did not know the government would take a big bite out of every paycheck. My heart could not take it after I saw my first salary slip. The amount removed for taxes left me speechless. Coming from Nigeria, where my taxes were not so high, this came as a surprise. I wish someone had warned me that working more does not equate to making more money. The more you work, the more tax you pay. Also, by the time you are done with taxes, bills, insurance, and rent, you might start questioning if you are truly earning anything. I wish someone had advised me that financial literacy is key. Without proper planning, your money can disappear quickly. Learn the system early, budget wisely, and do not assume foreign currency equals wealth.
“The weather is a different experience” – Ajoke, Canada.
Nobody quite prepares you for the cold, even when they warn you. I wish someone had told me to expect extreme cold and shorter daylight hours during winter, which can be difficult for newcomers to adjust to. Some Nigerians even fall ill during their first few months as their bodies adapt to the new climate. I experienced this myself and found myself looking for someone who had malaria medication because I had not traveled with any. I would advise newcomers to invest in proper clothing for their environment: coats, boots, and layers for colder climates.
“Learn a skill you can fall back on” – Linda, United Kingdom.
I wish someone had told me that one’s skills can make a major difference when trying to settle abroad. I recall a classmate who knew how to make hair, earning money while searching for a job. Learn a skill, and you will not suffer. This is the best gift you can give to yourself.
“Nobody told me loneliness abroad hits different,” Charlene, Canada.
You can be surrounded by people and still feel alone. Even the chance of meeting a partner feels slim when everyone is busy chasing shifts and money. No one told me that survival comes before enjoyment. Newcomers should not expect a soft life immediately. The early stages may involve hard work, adjustment, and learning how to manage life independently.
“You need a bigger financial cushion” – Ejiro, UK.
I wish someone had warned me about finances and told me to arrive with a bigger financial cushion. Those first few months came with expenses I had not planned for, and more savings would have taken the pressure off. My advice is to arrive with at least 3 to 6 months of living expenses saved for bills, emergencies, and the transition itself, since it often takes time to land a higher-paying job, and that cushion lets you make smarter decisions rather than panicked ones.
None of these stories is to discourage anyone from relocating. They are just showing the difference between what you picture and what you find when you arrive, so maybe the next person will not have to discover all of it the hard way.
