Living in the UK Made Me Appreciate Nigeria’s Comforts and Contradictions

After spending years in the UK, I have come to appreciate some things I once took for granted about Nigeria. Life abroad can be more predictable and structured, but I miss the familiarity of living among my people, the social warmth and the easier access to domestic support for family life. As a Black Nigerian family on a largely white street, my wife and I sometimes feel watched or avoided. At work, I also struggle with the limits of my accent when explaining complex issues. The UK’s strict rules, background checks and high cost of childcare can make everyday mistakes and family responsibilities feel heavier. Still, Nigeria has its own serious problems. Connections can undermine accountability, and insecurity, weak institutions and the current political climate make returning difficult. I miss Naija deeply, but I am unsure whether I could settle back there under the present circumstances.

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