A Nigerian woman who spent years living in the United Kingdom has opened up about her decision to leave Britain and return permanently to her home country, citing a dramatic improvement in her quality of life and mental peace.
The TikTok Revelation: A Life Transformed
In a candid video posted on TikTok by user @onyiieeke, the woman contrasted her current life in Nigeria with her previous existence in the UK. She stated that this time last year, she was "suffering in the UK," but is now "enjoying in Nigeria." She described her UK routine as a relentless cycle of running to shifts, sleeping, and waking up early for the next job just to pay bills, leaving little room for personal peace or fulfillment.
She captioned her video with a pointed message, suggesting she had committed a "crime" by choosing peace over pressure. She invited her followers to explain in the comments why a "soft life" is superior to a stressful one, directly challenging the common narrative that life abroad is inherently better.
Public Reaction: A Mix of Support and Skepticism
The video sparked a lively debate online, reflecting a growing conversation about the realities of the diaspora experience. Many users echoed her sentiments about the challenges of life in Britain.
User @Sarah commented on the grey skies and miserable atmosphere in the UK, contrasting it with the lively, warm, and healthier environment she finds in Nigeria. Another user, @REAL PAIN, expressed eagerness to return after completing a master's degree, stating that "abroad doesn't worth it."
Others highlighted the systemic pressures. @Annabell remarked that the UK was turning her into a "mad person" with no rest or life outside of work. @Julius offered a nuanced view, acknowledging the UK's structure but criticizing the endless financial pressure that leads to burnout, concluding that "our own country must work."
However, not all reactions were supportive. Some questioned the practicalities, like user @Falcao mavin who asked, "So how do you pay your bills in that country of Concern?" This highlights the ongoing economic considerations that many face when contemplating such a move.
Part of a Broader Trend
This story is not isolated. Legit.ng, which published the original report on December 6, 2025, has covered similar narratives. In a related story, a registered nurse returned to Nigeria after eight years in the UK, sharing specific things she disliked about living abroad. Another report mentioned a man who came back after 33 years in Britain, and another who left after just two.
These accounts point to a developing trend sometimes called "reverse Japa," where Nigerians are reassessing the promise of life in Western nations and weighing it against the personal cost, often choosing to rebuild their lives at home where they find greater community, cultural connection, and mental well-being.
The woman's story, shared by Human Interest Editor Victoria Nwahiri, a Reuters-certified journalist, adds a powerful personal voice to this complex discussion about migration, happiness, and where true prosperity lies.
