A Nigerian man living in the United Kingdom has sparked widespread discussion online after sharing a candid and emotional video from his night shift workplace. The video, posted on TikTok, offers a raw glimpse into the realities many diaspora Nigerians face, which often starkly contrast with the perceptions of success held by those back home.
The Viral Video: A Glimpse into the Night Shift Grind
The man, identified on TikTok as @chibuikematthew1, recorded himself during a late-night shift at a warehouse in the UK. In the clip, he is seen moving through his workplace, highlighting the nature of the duties that fill his hours. He used the platform to shed light on the type of labour he relies on to sustain himself abroad, a situation he says is greatly different from assumptions made about him in Nigeria.
He pointed out a common phenomenon: each time he returns to Nigeria, people regard him with admiration simply because he lives overseas. "In their eyes I appeared so successful," he explained, attributing this to the general belief that anyone living abroad automatically enjoys an elevated lifestyle. However, his daily routine tells another story. His work schedule revolves around late hours, and he takes on this night-time labour to meet his basic needs and maintain stability. He poignantly captioned the post: "In Nigeria I am a big boy but in UK, I am a night shift worker."
Massive Reactions: Encouragement and Shared Experiences
The video quickly went viral, drawing an avalanche of reactions from TikTok users who flooded the comments section with words of encouragement, empathy, and shared stories.
Many users praised his honesty and work ethic. User @Sukhs shared a personal journey: "I came from Malawi with nothing, I remember these days bro, working 5 jobs, Monday to Sunday just to survive. But today, I am rewarded for my hardworking. So, enjoy the journey and know, God has a plan for all of us."
The video also prompted reflections on humility and perspective. @Marie Martins commented: "All these videos dey teach me how to lower myself even if I think I have it all, because the money I have now maybe the money someone has in their spending account."
Others highlighted the value of having steady work, regardless of its nature. @Kingcash001 reacted, saying: "You can be big boy in Nigeria and still be bankrupt in Nigeria. It better to be shift worker and have something in your account." User @Eliteforever added: "It’s better than nothing. Some no even get day job. Give thanks to God in any situation you find yourself."
Several comments came from those who have walked a similar path. @Officially_Kingsley offered solidarity: "Warehouse and Logistics job aren't easy at all, I was once in these shoe for years. But in all I thank God for the journey. Keep it up brother, don't give up." User @Mzed echoed this: "It’s just time mate, we were once doing this Job. Its a difficult job but wouldn’t get easy later if you don’t start like this. Keep up your grind brother."
The Broader Diaspora Narrative
This incident touches on a common narrative within the Nigerian and broader African diaspora community—the gap between external perception and internal reality. The video serves as a powerful reminder that the journey abroad is often paved with significant sacrifice and hard work, far removed from the imagined life of luxury.
The story also recalls a similar report by Legit.ng where a Nigerian lady in the UK showcased her job to dispel assumptions from family back home that she was merely "enjoying" herself. These shared experiences highlight a collective desire to present a more authentic picture of life overseas, one that balances struggle with hope and hard work with faith in a better future.
As the comments show, the man's video has become more than just a personal post; it's a source of motivation and a point of connection for many navigating similar paths, reinforcing the message that present challenges are often steps toward future rewards.
