My people
Let’s get real for a second. If you’re like me, a first-gen Nigerian parent raising kids outside Nigeria, you’ve probably had this moment. You know the one: your child says something so foreign to your ears it makes you wonder, “Wait… who are we actually raising?”
Maybe they refuse to greet an elder properly (without being asked twice), or they cringe when you speak Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa at the park. Or maybe they don’t even understand the language anymore.
I get it. I’ve been there. And I’m not judging, I’m just saying it out loud because we all feel it.
As Nigerian parents living abroad, we’re walking a tightrope. On one side is the vibrant, communal, value-rich culture we grew up with. On the other is the new world our kids are growing into one that values individuality, self-expression, and sometimes challenges everything we were raised to believe.
But here’s the thing: this balancing act doesn’t have to be a battle. It can be beautiful.
Why Culture Matters
Culture isn’t just about speaking our native languages or eating jollof rice on Sundays (though yes, those things are important!). It’s about identity. It’s how our kids answer the question: “Where do I come from?” without hesitation.
When we lose culture, we risk raising kids who feel like outsiders on both sides of the ocean. And trust me, no parent wants their child to grow up feeling rootless.
The Good News?
We’re not alone in this journey. Millions of Nigerian families across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond are figuring this out too. And guess what? There are ways to raise confident, successful global citizens and keep them connected to their heritage.
Here’s how we start:
- Make Language a Lifeline
You speak the language they should too. Whether it’s Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, or even Pidgin English, make it part of daily life. Talk at home, play songs, tell stories. If you can’t do it alone, find weekend classes or apps. Every bit counts.
- Celebrate Like You’re Back Home
Throw a mini Nigerian party! Cook pounded yam, blast Burna Boy or Wizkid, dress them in Ankara, and invite other Nigerian families. Let them see that Nigerian = fun, pride, and joy; not just chores and discipline.
3. Build Your Nigerian Tribe Abroad
Find your people. Join Nigerian associations, WhatsApp groups, or attend cultural events. Kids need to see other Nigerian kids thriving, speaking the language, and still fitting in at school.
- Teach Them Their Story
Tell them where they come from. Share stories of your childhood, your parents, your village. Let them know they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
- Embrace the Blend
You don’t have to choose between Nigerian and Western values. Blend them. Respect + independence. Discipline + creativity. Tradition + innovation.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive deeper into how Nigerian parents around the world are navigating discipline, education, and identity across cultures.
So let’s talk! How are you keeping your Nigerian roots alive while raising your kids abroad?
Drop your tips, your struggles, your wins below. Let’s build this conversation together.