Before You Jappa
Taiwo Ayandeyi
Nobody is discouraging anyone from considering opportunities abroad. Personally, I believe in sharing essential information before making such a move. The doors of foreign embassies are open for all to seek information. It's important to note that discouragement typically happens when someone isn't fully prepared. I once offered advice to a close friend, urging him to take it easy, but he ignored me. He spent 4.5 million on an agent to go abroad and now he's back in Nigeria without the means to start anew.
Having personally visited 13 different countries, I can confirm that success abroad requires both mental and financial preparation. During the initial 6 months of relocation, ensure you have a plan for managing expenses while you seek employment. Tourist visas are often the least suitable for relocating; visas like Student, Work, or Missionary visas solve a significant portion of the challenges. It's crucial to possess marketable skills and be ready to work hard to support yourself financially. Prior research and thorough investigation of your destination are essential.
Avoid choosing a country solely for its reputation or to impress others. After settling, maintain a modest online presence and avoid flaunting your achievements for sustainability. Keep in mind that showcasing wealth could put your family back home at risk of kidnapping. Cultivate a small circle of dependable friends, stay out of trouble, assist your loved ones back home, and save for unforeseen circumstances. Keep in mind that the individuals you interact with before and after your journey will play a crucial role in your integration into the new country. It's wise to seek guidance from those experienced in the process; don't hesitate to ask questions. Understand that your initial months might not be easy, and thoughts of returning home might cross your mind. To avoid this, detach yourself from memories and attachments that constantly draw your thoughts back home, causing homesickness and depression.
If you have a girlfriend in Nigeria, it's important to communicate your commitment to your new venture and encourage her to manage her emotions accordingly. If you're using an agent, it's advisable to conduct your own research about the country. Rushing to leave Nigeria solely to escape its challenges might lead to disillusionment, as there are Nigerians abroad who struggle for daily sustenance, some even sleeping at bus and train stations. Many living abroad are not as well off as they may appear, often relying on loans, credit cards, and car payments for survival.
It's crucial not to envy others' lives abroad until you've walked in their shoes. Many individuals engage in unconventional jobs to meet their financial needs. The truth is often concealed, and people tend to showcase a better image than reality, even to their own families. If the Nigerian government offered free flights for return, a surprising number of those believed to be thriving abroad would likely come back unannounced.
I'm sharing these insights candidly because I have personal experience in this matter. Many people envied in foreign lands are actually performing jobs they would never consider in Nigeria just to make ends meet. To avoid such situations, focus on developing valuable skills before relocating. This will help you avoid jobs like CNA, kitchen assistant, toilet cleaning, and security positions. I recall meeting a young woman crying at a train station due to dissatisfaction with her job. Encouragement and a positive attitude are essential.
Be prepared for a period of introversion. You might spend one to two months in your apartment with limited social interactions. This adjustment is essential for adapting to the new environment. Lastly, stay connected to your roots and maintain a spiritual outlook. I have a lot to share but digest these points and be guilded. Best of luck with your journey to relocating abroad.
