Relocating from Nigeria to a new country is more than just a change of address—it's a complete transformation of your daily life, social interactions, and cultural environment. While Nigerians are known for their adaptability and resilience, the cultural adjustment process can be challenging, even for the most prepared individuals. This comprehensive guide explores the cultural differences you're likely to encounter and provides practical strategies for thriving in your new home.
Whether you're moving to the UK, Canada, the United States, Germany, or elsewhere, understanding cultural differences ahead of time can significantly smooth your transition. The goal isn't to abandon your Nigerian identity but to develop the cultural flexibility to navigate your new environment while maintaining your authentic self.
Understanding Culture Shock
Culture shock is a natural psychological response to living in a new cultural environment. It affects nearly everyone, regardless of how prepared you think you are. Recognizing the stages helps you understand what you're experiencing and know that it's temporary.
The Four Stages of Culture Shock
1. Honeymoon Stage (First few weeks to months)
Everything is exciting and new. You're fascinated by the differences, enjoying the novelty, and feeling positive about your decision. Common thoughts include "Everything is so organized!" or "The infrastructure is amazing!" This stage is enjoyable but temporary.
2. Frustration Stage (Usually 1-6 months in)
Reality sets in. Small differences become irritating. You may feel homesick, isolated, misunderstood, or frustrated by simple tasks. The weather, food, social interactions, and daily routines can all feel exhausting. This is the hardest stage.
3. Adjustment Stage (6 months to 1 year)
You begin to understand and accept the new culture. Routines become familiar, you develop coping strategies, and you start to feel more comfortable. You still miss home, but it's no longer overwhelming.
4. Acceptance/Adaptation Stage (1 year and beyond)
The new culture feels like a second home. You've developed bicultural competence—the ability to function effectively in both Nigerian and your new culture. You appreciate aspects of both cultures and feel confident navigating your environment.
Common Cultural Differences for Nigerians Abroad
Communication Styles
Direct vs. Indirect Communication
Many Western cultures (especially Dutch, German, American) favor direct communication. What Nigerians might consider blunt or rude is often just normal, honest communication. Conversely, the Nigerian style of indirect communication, heavy context, and reading between the lines may not translate well.
Adjusting:
- When someone says "That's not possible," they usually mean exactly that—not a starting point for negotiation
- Be clear and specific in your requests
- Don't take directness personally
- Practice saying "no" directly when needed
Formality Levels
In Nigeria, using titles (Chief, Dr., Alhaji) and honorifics is important. Many Western workplaces are more informal—calling your boss by their first name is normal and expected. Adjusting to this can feel uncomfortable initially.
Time and Punctuality
"African time" won't work abroad. In most Western countries, time is treated very literally:
- Meetings start at the stated time—arriving 10 minutes late is noticed and may be viewed negatively
- Appointments are sacred—canceling without adequate notice is considered disrespectful
- Time estimates are literal—if someone says "5 minutes," they mean 5 minutes
Adjusting:
- Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early for everything
- Build buffer time into your schedule
- Set reminders for appointments
- Communicate immediately if you'll be late
Personal Space and Physical Contact
Nigerians are often more physically expressive than people in many Western cultures:
- Hugging and touching are common in Nigeria but may be uncomfortable for others, especially in professional settings
- Personal space expectations are larger in countries like the UK and Germany—stand at arm's length during conversations
- Eye contact norms differ—prolonged eye contact that shows respect in Nigeria might be interpreted differently elsewhere
Adjusting:
- Let others initiate physical contact
- Follow the lead of colleagues in professional settings
- Observe how locals interact and mirror their behavior
Workplace Culture
Hierarchy and Authority
Nigerian workplaces often have strong hierarchies. In many Western companies, especially in tech and startups, hierarchy is flatter. Junior employees may openly challenge ideas from seniors, and direct access to leadership is normal.
Work-Life Balance
The Nigerian work culture of long hours and being available 24/7 differs from Western emphasis on work-life balance. In countries like Germany, Netherlands, and the UK:
- Leaving work on time is expected, not seen as laziness
- Taking full annual leave is encouraged
- Evenings and weekends are generally protected
- Work emails outside hours may be ignored
Initiative and Self-Direction
Western workplaces often expect employees to take initiative, make decisions independently, and speak up with ideas. Waiting to be told what to do may be interpreted as lack of motivation.
Adjusting:
- Volunteer for projects and share ideas in meetings
- Ask questions when unclear rather than guessing
- Give and receive feedback constructively
- Understand that disagreeing with your boss isn't disrespectful
Social Interactions
Making Friends
Friendship development in many Western countries is slower than in Nigeria. Colleagues may be friendly at work but not socialize outside. This isn't personal—it's a cultural norm where work and personal life are separated.
Small Talk
The British love of small talk about weather, the American "How are you?" (not expecting a real answer), and the German avoidance of small talk entirely are all cultural norms to learn.
Hospitality Expectations
Nigerian hospitality—offering food, insisting guests eat, drop-in visits—differs from Western expectations:
- Visits are usually scheduled in advance
- "No, thank you" often means no
- Potluck dinners (bringing food to share) are common
- Guests may not be offered food automatically
Religion and Spirituality
Religion plays a central role in Nigerian life, but many Western societies are more secular:
- Religious discussions are often considered private
- Prayers before meetings or invoking God's name in professional settings may seem unusual
- Sunday may not be a "church day" for colleagues
This doesn't mean abandoning your faith—just being aware of appropriate contexts for religious expression.
Family and Community
Individualism vs. Collectivism
Nigerian culture emphasizes community and extended family. Western cultures tend to be more individualistic:
- Adult children living independently is expected and not seen as abandonment
- Extended family involvement in decisions is less common
- Privacy is highly valued
Parenting and Children
Parenting norms differ significantly:
- Physical discipline that's common in Nigeria may be illegal abroad
- Children's independence is encouraged earlier
- Schools may have different approaches to discipline and parent involvement
Practical Strategies for Cultural Adjustment
Before You Arrive
- Research your destination: Learn about local customs, social norms, and expectations
- Connect with Nigerians already there: Join Facebook groups, WhatsApp communities, or LinkedIn groups for your destination
- Set realistic expectations: Understand that adjustment takes time—typically 6-12 months to feel comfortable
- Prepare emotionally: Acknowledge that you'll miss home and that's okay
In the First Few Months
- Find your community: Locate Nigerian churches, cultural associations, and social groups
- But also explore beyond: Join local clubs, sports teams, or hobby groups to meet people from your new country
- Establish routines: Familiar routines provide stability during uncertainty
- Stay in touch with home: Regular calls with family and friends help maintain emotional connections
- Take care of basics: Ensure you're eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising—culture shock is worse when you're physically depleted
Building Cultural Intelligence
- Observe before acting: Watch how locals behave in various situations before jumping in
- Ask questions: Most people appreciate genuine curiosity about their culture
- Accept discomfort: Some situations will feel awkward—that's part of growth
- Learn from mistakes: Cultural missteps are inevitable; apologize if needed and move on
- Find cultural bridges: Look for commonalities between Nigerian and local culture
Dealing with Homesickness
- Acknowledge it: Feeling homesick doesn't mean you made the wrong decision
- Create comfort: Cook Nigerian food, listen to Nigerian music, watch Nollywood
- Schedule calls: Regular, scheduled calls with family can be something to look forward to
- Find Nigerian spaces: Locate Nigerian restaurants, churches, and shops
- Plan visits: Having a trip home on the calendar helps
When to Seek Help
If adjustment difficulties persist beyond normal culture shock, consider professional support:
- Prolonged depression or anxiety
- Inability to function at work
- Isolation and withdrawal from others
- Physical symptoms (persistent headaches, stomach issues)
Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) with counseling. Universities have international student support services. These resources exist specifically to help people like you.
Country-Specific Adjustments
United Kingdom
- Weather: Gray, rainy weather can affect mood; invest in appropriate clothing and SAD lamps
- British politeness: Queuing, saying "sorry" even when you're not at fault, and indirect communication
- Pub culture: Pubs are social hubs; not drinking alcohol is fine, but participating in pub gatherings is valuable for relationships
- NHS: Register with a GP immediately—healthcare works differently than Nigeria
United States
- Size and driving: Everything is spread out; you'll likely need to drive
- American friendliness: Americans are often more outwardly friendly but friendships may be more superficial initially
- Healthcare: Understand your insurance thoroughly—healthcare costs can be shocking
- Tipping culture: Tipping 15-20% at restaurants is expected, not optional
Canada
- Winter: Invest in proper winter clothing—Nigerian "cold weather" clothing won't suffice
- Multiculturalism: Canada is very multicultural, which can ease adjustment
- Politeness: Canadians are known for being polite and apologetic
- Hockey: Understanding hockey is helpful for social integration
Germany
- Rules and order: Germans follow rules strictly; jaywalking, noise on Sundays, and recycling violations are all noticed
- Directness: German directness is not rudeness—it's valued honesty
- Language: Learn German; even in international companies, integration is much easier with German language skills
- Cash culture: Germany uses cash more than many other Western countries
Maintaining Your Nigerian Identity
Cultural adjustment doesn't mean cultural erasure. The goal is developing bicultural competence—the ability to move comfortably between Nigerian and your new culture. Here's how to maintain your identity:
- Celebrate Nigerian holidays: Mark Independence Day, Christmas, Eid, and other celebrations
- Cook Nigerian food: Find Nigerian grocery stores or learn to create your favorites with available ingredients
- Maintain language: Speak your native language at home, especially with children
- Connect with community: Participate in Nigerian community events and organizations
- Share your culture: Colleagues and friends are often curious—share your food, music, and traditions
- Visit home: Regular visits maintain connections and remind you of who you are
Conclusion
Cultural adjustment is a journey, not a destination. Every Nigerian who has successfully relocated abroad has gone through the same process of confusion, frustration, and eventually adaptation that you will experience. The discomfort you feel is temporary—it's actually a sign that you're growing and developing new competencies.
Remember that millions of Nigerians have successfully built lives abroad while maintaining their Nigerian identity. You bring valuable perspectives, resilience, and cultural richness to your new home. With patience, openness, and the strategies outlined in this guide, you'll develop the cultural flexibility to thrive wherever you choose to plant your roots.
Welcome to your new chapter. The adjustment is challenging, but you've got this!