The UK has long been seen as a promised land by many Nigerians who #japa — a popular slang term for emigrating abroad in search of greener pastures. But for some, the dream is beginning to crack under the weight of reality.

In a now-viral YouTube video, a Nigerian woman living in the UK delivers a heartfelt and emotional account of why she has decided to pack her bags and return to Nigeria. Her story, titled “Why I’m Leaving the UK for Nigeria”, sheds light on the growing number of Nigerians who, after years abroad, are choosing to leave the UK and reclaim their lives back home.

“I’m a disappointment to my mum. I’ve not achieved anything. But I’ve decided — I’m relocating fully back to Nigeria,” she says tearfully, staring directly into the camera. “The UK doesn’t deserve me anymore.”

Her video isn’t just a vlog. It’s a deeply personal journey through disillusionment, mental health struggles, and the emotional toll of life abroad — a sentiment echoed by many Nigerians across the diaspora.

“The UK Doesn’t Love You”
What begins as a relocation diary quickly evolves into a raw monologue on isolation, burnout, and the mental exhaustion of navigating life in the UK.


She shares how she’s set a countdown timer for her return, not out of frustration alone, but from a deep desire for joy, family, and purpose.


Burnout in the UK’s 9-to-5 Grind
For many Nigerians abroad — especially in sectors like healthcare — the reality of working long hours just to pay bills can become soul-crushing.


She touches on the silent struggles many immigrants face: visa anxieties, lack of support systems, and the burden of keeping up appearances while privately breaking down.


Redefining Success Back in Nigeria
Contrary to the narrative that returning home signifies failure, her decision to move back is framed as an act of healing and rediscovery.


As she prepares to leave with her husband and child, her suitcases are filled not just with gifts, but with hope — a belief that she doesn’t need to be in the UK to find happiness or fulfilment.

“Returning Is Not a Defeat”
Her video has struck a chord with many, challenging the notion that staying abroad is the only way to succeed.


She’s not alone. More Nigerians are beginning to explore the idea of returning home — some for mental health, others for family, business, or simply a sense of belonging.


The Changing Narrative
While the “japa” dream is still alive for many Nigerians, stories like this are reframing the conversation: that sometimes, success isn’t found in London — it’s rediscovered in Lagos.

Click here to see the video and reactions from Nigerians relocating back to Nigeria from the UK
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlumOZzTCuQ?si=22NRyTLNFkdE1xEk

Have your say — would you consider returning home?