Nigerians in UK Open Up on Hard Life Abroad, One Begs for Money to Return Home
Published on March 10, 2026, at 11:16 AM by Muhammed Hammed Olayinka, this article delves into the poignant stories of Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom who have taken to social media to share their daily struggles and harsh living conditions. In a series of viral videos and posts, these individuals have candidly expressed their challenges, with one even pleading for financial help to secure a return ticket to Nigeria.
Background: The Pursuit of Greener Pastures
Over the years, hundreds of thousands of Nigerians have relocated to various countries worldwide for diverse reasons. While some have moved to pursue academic degrees from top universities, many others have sought better opportunities and greener pastures abroad. However, the reality of life overseas often contrasts sharply with expectations, as highlighted by recent social media revelations.
Compilation of Four Nigerians' Stories
Legit.ng has compiled a list of four Nigerians in the UK who have shared their experiences, detailing the struggles they face and their conditions before relocation. These stories have garnered significant attention online, shedding light on the difficulties of adapting to life in a foreign land.
1. Nigerian Man Expresses Readiness to Leave UK
In a viral TikTok video, a Nigerian man in the UK, neatly dressed, discussed his current situation and his eagerness to return to Nigeria. He stated, "I want to move back to Nigeria, I've tried school in the UK, there's no job in the UK." The post, shared by @jummyomolope, revealed that he requested 500 pounds (approximately ₦940,992) to purchase his return ticket. A woman in the video offered to send him the money after he provided his account number, highlighting the desperation some face.
2. Nigerian Man Laments Struggle and Compares Life
Another Nigerian, using the TikTok handle @kingspro_official, shared his experience, explaining that he had endured significant hardships in the UK. He contrasted his previous comfortable life in Nigeria, where he lived in his own duplex and drove a big car, with his current situation in a shared apartment and small car. He wrote, "From living in my own duplex for Naija and big car to shared apartment and small car. Working 7 days to survive and clear debt. I don’t pay my sacrifice this year." He concluded by stating that if conditions do not improve by next year, he plans to return to Nigeria.
3. Nigerian Man Posts His Daily Job in UK
A third Nigerian, @third_son, went viral after sharing a video of himself lifting bags of an unidentified material as part of his daily job in the UK. He explained in the caption that this work is necessary to pay his rent and send money to his family. He added, "This is what I do every day abroad to pay my rent and feed. If I send you 20k my bro manage. I stay 4 months before taking a haircut here, so I can just send that £25 (₦50k) to my family. But one day it will be a story that was witnessed by you, keep praying for me."
4. Nigerian Man Speaks About Hardship After 3 Years
Another individual, @SlickRule, made headlines by sharing his struggles after three years in the UK. He revealed that despite his time abroad, he has been unable to afford a car or even a bicycle, and has zero savings for a mortgage. He wrote, "Today makes 3rd year of being in the UK. Motor i no see buy. Bicycle i no get. Mortgage saving, Zero.." However, he expressed gratitude for life and maintained hope, stating, "But we still dey alive. Thank God for life. We keep the dream alive."
Related Story: Nigerian Woman Returns Home After Decades
In a related development, Legit.ng recently reported on a Nigerian woman who lived in the UK for nearly 30 years and is now returning to Nigeria permanently. She initially went to the UK for a five-year study program but ended up staying much longer. As she approaches 50, she has decided to start a new life in Nigeria, reflecting a broader trend of reassessment among diaspora Nigerians.
Conclusion: A Broader Perspective on Diaspora Life
These stories underscore the complex realities faced by Nigerians abroad, challenging the notion of an easy life overseas. While social media often highlights success stories, these accounts provide a raw and unfiltered look at the hardships, from job struggles to financial instability. They serve as a reminder of the resilience and hope that many maintain, even in difficult circumstances.
