A Nigerian woman has reflected on the expectations she had before relocating to Canada, saying the reality of life abroad has been very different from what she imagined while living in Nigeria.
According to her, she believed moving overseas would automatically bring a more comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle.
“Back in Nigeria, I was thinking once I got to this country, I would really enjoy it.”
However, she said that expectation quickly changed after settling in Canada.
“But I’m not enjoying anything. I’ve suffered. I’m not going to lie to you.”
The woman said one of the biggest surprises was the cost of everyday living, explaining that ordinary services she once considered affordable now require much more money.
“Imagine paying 50 bucks just to do ordinary weaving with no braids.”
She said experiences like these made her realise that many people considering relocation only hear about the opportunities abroad but are rarely told about the financial realities that come with starting over in a new country.
“They never explained this to us. Nobody broke it down for us.”
While acknowledging that everyone has different experiences, she said her own journey has taught her that relocating abroad requires realistic expectations rather than assumptions based on what others portray.
“It’s getting frustrating, but only God will help us because nobody knows what we are facing.”
