A question posed by social media user Foundational Nupe Lawyer (@egi_nupe___) has sparked a lively debate among Nigerians at home and abroad: why do many Nigerians living overseas appear to invest far less in decorating their living rooms compared to those in Nigeria? What followed was not simply a discussion about interior design, but a revealing conversation about culture, economics, migration realities and social psychology.

Several respondents pointed first to visitor culture. Humble SirSuto (@Sirsuto) suggested the answer was straightforward: “no one to entice.” He argued that social visits are far less frequent abroad, reducing the need to curate an impressive reception space. Titilayo Eme Udo-Affia Jimeta (@emejimeta2) and Aniekpeno (@IsantimWeb3) echoed that sentiment, describing a more minimalist lifestyle shaped by fewer drop-in guests. For many diaspora residents, the living room is primarily functional — a place to rest after long work hours rather than a stage for social display.

Others expanded on structural factors tied to renting. Joshua Gboyega (@JoshuaGboyega5) outlined what he called three major drivers: frequent relocation, long working hours, and rental restrictions. In many parts of the UK, Europe and North America, tenants must pay security deposits and are liable for damages beyond fair wear and tear. Adedoyin Owala (@IyawoORT) and Fatoye K. (@phatoyeh) both noted that any wall alterations or decorative changes risk deductions from that deposit. OLAYIMIKA (@yeancah19) reinforced the point, stating bluntly that if decoration causes damage, “your deposit is gone.” In short, heavy customization often carries financial risk.

Cost also featured prominently. Yomi Capt. Awesome (@mmayomi01) pointed out that a quality three-seater sofa in the UK can range between £1,700 and £2,500, even within the middle-class market. Akin (@flasheko84) highlighted labour expenses, explaining that carpentry and decorative services abroad operate at standardized commercial rates rather than informal negotiated pricing common in Nigeria. Eltee Gan Gan (@Harbass001) added that complex furniture assembly can require paid assistance, increasing total costs. The result is a preference for flat-pack or modular furniture from retailers such as IKEA, which prioritises affordability and ease of relocation over elaborate aesthetics.

Cultural interpretations ran deeper. Abdulhakeem (@__Hakeem_yesufa) described the Nigerian sitting room as a “statement piece,” designed to impress guests and reflect status. Laide Abdul (@laide0) similarly framed it as a “social stage” and status signal. Dionysus (@Nysiann) suggested that optics carry greater weight in Nigerian society, where visibility and perception often influence social standing. Saint (@Saintfranklin8 was more blunt, arguing that decorative pressure can be tied to self-esteem and trends rather than necessity. Others, such as Momoh Shaka Dalanmi (@momohdshaka1), described the phenomenon as validation culture — investing in appearances to meet social expectations.

Yet the discussion was not one-sided. Some diaspora respondents rejected the generalisation altogether. Introverted Capital (@gunnainvestor) insisted, “We do,” arguing that decoration often reflects income level rather than geography. Flymamacita (@mamademama22) noted that affluent Nigerians abroad decorate extensively once they own property, particularly in the United States. Peridot (@mumire1intown) agreed that ownership changes behaviour; once a home is purchased rather than rented, customisation becomes more appealing.

Housing structure itself may also influence design choices. Picksapphire (@picksapphire) observed that many Western homes follow an open-concept layout, blending kitchen and living areas. Heavy ornamentation in such spaces can create visual clutter. Prosper Vuga (@vugapella) suggested that the baseline quality of materials — wooden flooring, neutral paintwork, fitted curtains — reduces the need for additional embellishment. In this context, minimalism is less about austerity and more about spatial harmony.

There was also the matter of time. Multiple contributors, including Aminu Oladimeji (@aminu1oladimeji) and Emmanuel S. Dansu (@esd_climate), emphasised long work hours and demanding schedules. When daily life revolves around shifts, commuting and bills, the living room becomes a transitional space rather than a showcase environment. Victor (@consultantvick) summed it up succinctly: “Sitting room way we no go spend more than 2 hours per day.”

Interestingly, the debate revealed as much about Nigeria as it did about the diaspora. Several respondents suggested that the Nigerian approach to decorating reflects broader societal norms — hospitality culture, extended family networks and frequent social visits. In Nigeria, guests often arrive unannounced and are formally received in the sitting room. The space therefore carries reputational weight. Abroad, social life tends to shift toward outdoor gatherings, restaurants and scheduled visits, reducing that domestic performative element.

Ultimately, the conversation suggests that differences in decoration styles are not merely aesthetic choices but responses to structural realities: rental frameworks, labour costs, housing design, mobility patterns and social expectations. In Nigeria, where many people build or rent long-term and social hosting is central, investment in visible décor carries cultural currency. Abroad, where tenancy is fluid and privacy valued, utility often outweighs display.

The thread illustrates how migration reshapes everyday priorities. For some, minimalism is economic prudence. For others, it is liberation from social pressure. And for a few, decoration remains a personal joy regardless of postcode.

What began as a casual observation has evolved into a broader reflection on lifestyle, identity and the subtle ways environment shapes taste.