Pros and cons of relocating to Nigeria

One thing’s for certain, not many expat professionals are queuing for the chance of relocation to Nigeria!

The majority of expats who’ve been inveigled into accepting a posting to Nigeria do so under hefty financial encouragement or career duress, with their families dragging along by necessity. Banking and the oil and gas sector employ the vast majority of expat professionals, with telecommunication and construction also needing foreign talent. Destinations include the capital Abuja and the major commercial hub of Lagos as well as the remote, isolated Niger Delta and its oil fields.

Crime, kidnapping and corruption are regularly reported both locally and internationally, and 419 scams become more inventive year by year. However, attempts are now being made to improve conditions by setting up positive facelift- style changes, and arrivals nowadays might well be surprised by the improvements. The Nigerian people themselves are friendly, amazingly hospitable and love having fun, and the vast diversity of cultures is a fascinating bonus for inquisitive expats.

Unlike in many other expat destinations, the community in Nigeria offers sociability and camaraderie as well as tons of activities and meetups. In the two major cities there are organised social activities, good restaurants, bars and sports facilities, and the various social groups are mostly receptive to new arrivals who’re willing to fit in. Unfortunately, the plethora of expat-oriented activities often means expats miss out on the rich, real experience of local life.

The positives of a Nigerian relocation go a good way to compensate for this challenging expat destination. Congestion, crumbling infrastructure, pollution and in-your-face crime can’t be wished away or hidden, but can be prepared for and taken in conjunction with the positives as well as with excellent financial compensation. Also essential are extra allowances for accommodation, transport and international schooling as well as comprehensive healthcare insurance.