When Nigerians talk about “Japa,” we mostly focus on the excitement — the visa approval, the final packing, the airport pictures with captions like “God did!”. But the real story begins after the plane lands.
This is my honest Japa experience in the UK — the good, the challenging, and the life-changing moments that shaped my journey.
1. The First Shock: Everything Works… and Moves Fast
From the moment I stepped out of Heathrow, I knew I wasn’t in Nigeria anymore. The trains arrived on time. Buses followed their schedules. People were walking with purpose. There was order everywhere.
It felt refreshing, but also intimidating. In the UK, nobody waits for you to figure things out — you must adjust quickly.
2. The Weather Was Not My Mate
Movies don’t prepare you for how cold the UK can get.
Cold that passes your jacket.
Cold that questions your life choices.
But over time, I learned the art of layering clothes and always checking the weather app before leaving the house.
3. Jobs: More Opportunities, But Hard Work
One thing I realized quickly is that money doesn’t drop from the sky abroad. You will work — and sometimes work hard.
Whether it’s care work, warehouse shifts, hospitality, or office roles, the UK rewards you for your effort. The pay is better, but the discipline required is real.
Still, that first salary?
It hits differently.
4. The Beauty of Diversity
One of my favourite parts of the UK is how multicultural it is. You meet people from Ghana, India, Jamaica, China, Kenya — and of course, Nigerians everywhere.
It felt good knowing I wasn’t alone. That sense of community helped me settle faster and made the journey less scary.
5. Culture Shock Is Real
From how politely people talk, to how quietly they live, to how seriously personal space is respected — everything was different.
I learned:
- Don’t shout on the bus.
- Don’t greet strangers with “How far na?”
- Always say please, thank you, and sorry — even when it’s not your fault.
It was funny at first, but I eventually blended in.
6. The Growth Is Worth It
Despite the challenges, I can honestly say my Japa journey changed my mindset. It pushed me to become more organized, more confident, and more focused on my goals.
Living in the UK expanded my perspective. I began to see opportunities everywhere — things I would never have imagined back home.
Final Thoughts
Japa is not an escape; it’s a transition. It takes courage, discipline, and patience. But if you’re willing to grow, the UK can open doors you never knew existed.
My Japa experience wasn’t perfect, but it was worth every step — every cold morning, every cultural adjustment, every new skill learned.
And if you’re planning your own journey, just know this:
You won’t remain the same person once you land.
You’ll evolve — and that’s the real beauty of Japa.