Every year, thousands of young Nigerians pack their bags and head for Europe, chasing new dreams, career growth, or simply a chance at stability. But beneath the hashtags, airport selfies, and curated Instagram reels lies a more complex reality. Relocation is not magic—it’s migration. And like any big move, it comes with paperwork, pressure, and painful lessons.
Rolake, a Nigerian who has lived in Luxembourg for over three years, knows this reality all too well. In a recent chat with Vanguard Newspaper, she opened up about her experience, sharing seven brutally honest lessons for anyone planning to japa to Europe. We’ve taken her story and reshaped it for the iJapa.ng audience—because real stories matter.
1. Don’t Just Japa—Prepare Like Your Life Depends on It
Before you even think about buying that ticket, Rolake urges you to pause and build yourself up first. The journey abroad is not a rescue mission—it’s a new battlefield. Skill up, take courses, get certifications, and grow your personal discipline. Being educated is not enough; being adaptable is key. “Many people travel without real preparation,” she warns, “and then they struggle.”
2. Paper Is King—And Not Just Your Passport
In countries like Luxembourg, even entry-level roles in cleaning or hospitality often require certifications. Yes, you read that right—you may need papers to wash dishes. Rolake advises getting additional local qualifications wherever you’re going. Your Nigerian degrees are great, but to work fast, you’ll need recognised documents that align with European standards.
3. Your Uncle’s House Is Not a Hostel
Housing is no joke in Europe, and assuming you’ll just crash with a friend or cousin indefinitely? Big mistake. Rolake tells a painful story of how even her own brother charged her full rent when she first arrived, making her feel exploited. She strongly recommends planning financially, especially for accommodation. “Even close family might surprise you,” she says. “Have savings. A lot of it.”
4. Information is Power, Misinformation is a Trap
Those ads that say “This country is the cheapest” or “Fastest way to get papers”? Be careful. Do your own deep research. Ask multiple people. Double-check your sources. Understand what the cost of living looks like, what jobs are actually available, and whether your skills are in demand. Europe is not a monolith—France is not Poland, and Luxembourg is not Germany.
5. Loneliness is Real—And It’s Silent
Rolake speaks candidly about the mental health struggles many face after relocating. She describes European cities as quiet and emotionally distant. “People act like robots. You can walk past a neighbour every day and never get a hello,” she explains. This can lead to serious feelings of isolation, especially for those coming from the warmth and chaos of Nigeria.
6. Don’t Get Comfortable—This Is Just the Beginning
Making it abroad is not the finish line—it’s the starting point. “Some people stop learning the moment they land,” Rolake says. That’s a mistake. The job market is competitive, and what got you out of Nigeria won’t always be enough to keep you afloat in Europe. You’ll need to keep growing, learning, and adapting—fast.
7. Watch Out for Exploitation—Even from Familiar Faces
One of the most sobering takeaways from Rolake’s story is the financial and emotional manipulation some migrants face from people they trust. She speaks from experience. Whether it’s rent scams, fake job offers, or emotional blackmail, she advises newcomers to keep their guard up and not assume that everyone who helped them migrate has good intentions.
Japa is not a fairytale. It’s real life—messy, unpredictable, and full of hard lessons. Rolake’s story reminds us that beyond the passport stamp and abroad life glow-up, lies a journey that demands grit, awareness, and self-belief.
Thinking of making the move? Read, research, and reflect deeply.
And if you’ve already made the move or have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Submit your own Japa journey to iJapa.ng and help others learn from your path.
Original insights in this article were shared by Bayo Wahab for Vanguard Newspaper. This version has been adapted for the iJapa.ng community.
