From ‘Oga London’ to Uber Driver: The Untold Struggles of Africans Abroad
The Big Lie We All Believe.
“Uncle James traveled to Canada last year, now he drives a Range Rover and sends dollars home every month!” Sound familiar?
Across Africa, especially in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Kenya, there is a widespread belief that once you set foot abroad in America, Canada, Europe, Australia, or anywhere else-you have automatically “made it” in life. Your family celebrates, friends start calling you “Oga London, chairman, senior man, odogun,” and everyone assumes that money grows on trees wherever you go.
But here’s the truth: Traveling abroad is not an automatic ticket to wealth.
Peter said, “The grass may look greener overseas, but many are silently watering it with tears, sacrifice, and sleepless nights.”
Many Africans abroad struggle silently, working multiple jobs, battling loneliness, and drowning under the pressure of sending money home. Meanwhile, those back home keep expecting miracles.
In this article, we’ll break down:
- Why does this myth persist
- The real struggles Africans face abroad ( (10 Reasons Why Many Africans Struggle to Achieve Success Abroad Despite Seeking a Better Life )
- How this mindset harms both migrants and those back home
- What needs to change
Let’s get real.
Why Do Africans Believe ‘Abroad = Automatic Success’?
Several factors fuel this dangerous myth:
1. Survivorship Bias – Only Success Stories Go Viral
- We see the “Uncle in Canada” sending dollars, but not the cousin working three jobs to survive.
- Failures are hidden due to shame, making success seem like the only outcome.
2. Colonial Mentality – The West Is Glorified
- Many still see foreign countries as “better” in every way, even when local opportunities exist.
- Phrases like “Oyinbo people know how to do things” reinforce this belief.
3. Economic Hardship – Migration as an Escape
- When jobs are scarce and systems fail, abroad becomes the only hope, whether legal or not.
4. Social Pressure – The Need to ‘Show Face’
- Returning home without money? Many would rather stay and suffer than be called a “failure.”
The Reality vs. The Dream: What Life Abroad Really Looks Like
The Dream:
High-paying jobs are waiting for you
Easy money, luxury lifestyle
Instant respect from family and friends
The Reality: (10 Reasons Why Many Africans Struggle to Achieve Success Abroad Despite Seeking a Better Life )
Struggles to Find Jobs – Many work in survival gigs (Uber, cleaning, warehouses) despite their degrees.
High Cost of Living – Rent, bills, and taxes eat up most earnings.
Legal Stress – Visa issues, fear of deportation (for undocumented migrants).
Loneliness & Depression – No community, racism, and pressure to “fake success.”
Family Pressure – Pressure from back home to constantly send money or solve family problems. Relatives think you’re “stingy” when you can’t send money.
Real-Life Examples: Beyond the Glamour
Let’s look at common scenarios:
- Chinedu moved to the UK with big dreams. He’s now juggling three part-time jobs while studying just to pay rent and tuition. His family back home keeps asking for money, not knowing he’s barely scraping by.
- Amina relocated to Canada and spends most of her days in the cold, working 12-hour shifts. She rarely sleeps properly, but her Instagram shows only smiles and city lights.
What you see on social media is not always the full picture.
The Consequences of This Myth
This mindset harms both those abroad and families back home:
- Unrealistic Expectations – Families demand money, not understanding the struggle.
- Shame in Returning – Many stay in misery abroad rather than admit failure.
- Scams & Fraud – Some lie or engage in crime to keep up appearances.
- Brain Drain – Africa loses skilled talent, but not all thrive abroad.
How Can We Change This Narrative?
1. Share Real Stories
- Returnees should speak up. Abroad isn’t always greener.
- Platforms like YouTube, blogs, and documentaries can help.
2. Celebrate Local Success
- Not everyone who makes it does so abroad. Highlight African entrepreneurs thriving at home.
3. Financial Literacy
- Teach families: “Abroad doesn’t mean unlimited cash.”
4. Fix Local Systems
- Governments must create opportunities so migration is a choice, not an escape.
So, Should You Stop Dreaming About Traveling?
Not at all. If you have the opportunity to study, work, or live abroad, go for it. But go with a realistic mindset. Know that:
- The journey won’t be easy
- There’s no instant jackpot waiting
- You’ll have to start from the bottom and work your way up
- You’re not a failure if you struggle
Conclusion: Let’s Be Real
Yes, some Africans thrive abroad, but many struggle silently. Migration is not evil, but it’s not a magic solution either.
Key Takeaways:
Abroad ≠ automatic success.
The pressure to “make it” abroad harms mental health.
We need honest conversations about migration.
Africa can grow if systems improve.
What Do You Think?
Have you or someone you know experienced this? Drop a comment below, let’s discuss!
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