UK-based Nigerian fintech guru and writer John Mozie has said the diaspora can be unforgiving if foreigners get it wrong.
Speaking with Muse.ng, Mozie who heads a fintech department of an oil company in the United Kingdom, said infractions abroad can have a long-term consequences.
Contrary to people’s belief, Mozie said life in the diaspora is not easy but only different. According to him, the challenges are different.
In his words: “‘The Abroad’ can also be unforgiving if you get it wrong. You must pay your taxes and live within your means. You must live by the rules. Infractions can have long-term consequences. Even ‘small things’ can be life-changing. One of the reasons people pack up and go back home.”
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According to the fintech guru who left the shores of Nigeria in 1989, there are also cultural issues to contend with in the diaspora.
Mozie, however, said people in the diaspora enjoy the facilities that work and a certain level of predictability in their daily lives.
The Londoner said his city has a diverse and matured Nigerian community, adding that he never feels alone with these people around him.
He said: “There are also community associations, in some cases tracing back all the way to villages in Nigeria. London is unique that way.”
Racism in the UK
Mozie disclosed that he faced racism when he first landed in the United Kingdom and had very few opportunities.
He said: “That has changed over time, but there are still the subtle acts of irrepressible dislike. Some you learn to live with.”
Mozie, however, said he has also met the most wonderful people who are white, adding that not all white people are racist.
In his words: “As tough as racism can be, not all white people are racist, just like not all black people love each other.”
What he misses about Nigeria
Speaking of what he misses about his fatherland, Mozie said: “I grew up in the 70s and 80s, and I miss the Nigeria of my times. I miss the family, the way things used to be, our foods and our humour.”
Opportunities abroad
Mozie said one doesn’t necessarily need favouritism to succeed in the diaspora, adding that he has seen friends do the most incredible things simply because they are capable.
He said: “There is also the predictability of everyday life that helps make life easier to deal with.”
Mozie said if he was saddled with the responsibility of leading Nigeria, his focus would be on security, health, education, economy, melting tribal borders and giving corruption a bloody nose.
Well written and speaking unbehalf of the rest of us who share the same school of thought on the points made.
Excellent commentary from Mr Johnny Mozie. Aptly presented with tact and consideration. This should be a point of reference and an eye opener for anyone planning to leave the shores of Nigeria. They must have the right mindset and social skills for a successful productive life, and it includes integrity, perseverance, being hardworking and law abiding.
Excellent, insightful, incisive and balanced commentary
Very very sensible comment. Its realistic and has no pretences.
There is no part that can be faulted.
How eloquently put…
Words of wisdom and truth there.
What John said! Thanks for articulating my thoughts on this subject so well. Life in The Abroad is a case of constant trade-offs.
Well said, my brother! Stated with tact and diplomacy. Living here is hard, the challenges are tough but the rewards, not matter how little, can be sweet and l am not talking about money: reading a good book, reading a well written newspaper, being able to buy and listen to an album by your favourite musician, intelligent conversation with your circle of friends….
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