Despite having a stable job, a good salary, and a loving family in Nigeria, a UK-based father of four made the difficult decision to leave his home country in the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests.
Although he had never planned to join the Nigerian Diaspora, the events of October 2020 changed everything for him.
The #EndSARS movement and the government’s handling of the protests, particularly the tragic events at the Lekki Toll Gate, deeply affected him. Like many middle-class Nigerians, the loss of faith in governance, combined with concerns over insecurity, unemployment, and lack of infrastructure, became a turning point.
He left Nigeria with his wife and children in 2021 and has since settled in the United Kingdom.
“It cost me about £40,000 to relocate,” he revealed. “But after witnessing the way the government responded to the protests, especially President Buhari’s comments, I lost hope in the system. I wanted a better life for my family and to spend more quality time with them. That’s what drove me to take the leap.”
He admitted that the move was worth it, even though it came with emotional and cultural adjustments. “It’s been a mix of blessings and challenges,” he said.
“There was culture shock, and I had to adjust to a new way of life. In Nigeria, I was used to making quick decisions and raising my children a certain way. Here, it’s different—especially when it comes to discipline.”
Despite the downsides, he cherishes the opportunity to start afresh, emphasizing how the UK allows people to achieve success regardless of age or connections. “One of the best things to happen to me here is the birth of my youngest daughter. I’ve had more time with my family, and I’ve learned that you can rise from nothing in this country.”
Before relocating, he worked as a Business Hub Manager at a power distribution company in Nigeria. Now, he wears multiple hats—working as a Business Analyst, Project Manager, and Scrum Master in the UK.
Yet, even with his new life abroad, his heart is still with Nigeria. He is currently pursuing a PhD and plans to return once he completes his studies. “I’m already making plans to come back,” he said confidently. “I believe in Nigeria’s future. I want to contribute to the growth of the energy sector and play my part in national development.”
As for helping others looking to ‘japa’, he’s open—on one condition: “I’ll only support those with valid visas and legitimate sponsorships. There’s a right way to do things.”
His story is a reflection of the growing trend among young Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad, yet still holding onto hope for a better Nigeria.
