What is the underlying reason behind the Nigerian phrase "You have to remember where you come from"? This phrase is spoken in relation to many Nigerians living abroad, for whom the fear of losing cultural identity and family bonds is real.Â
Distance, time zones, and the fast-paced Western lifestyle can make it difficult to stay connected. Parents worry that their children, raised abroad, may never fully understand their roots, and family relationships can feel strained when miles apart.
But Nigerians are known for resilience and strong family values. From ‘Detty December’ trips to Nigeria to grand traditional weddings and reunions, Nigerian immigrants find creative ways to keep family bonds alive across generations—proving that no matter where you are in the world, home is never too far away.
So, how do they do it? How do Nigerian families abroad stay connected, nurture relationships, and pass down cultural heritage.
Journey of Connection
I moved to London as a postgraduate student more than a decade ago. Leaving my young family behind in Nigeria was tough at first, but I was buoyed by the prospects of quality education, better job opportunities and a new life. But over time, that early enthusiasm quickly gave way to an overwhelming feeling of isolation in the cold winter months.
This sense of loneliness was often compounded by a period of difficult cultural adjustment-my African boisterous & effusive nature was often out of place in the reserved culture of research settings.
Naturally, I filled those early months with innumerable & expensive phone calls, emails & letters to family & friends. By regularly attending church services, I quickly connected with friends, as Nigerians are big on faith.
Over the years, these led to further invitations to events such as birthday parties, Christmas dinners etc. The opportunity to enjoy Nigerian dishes, music & fashion helped in assuaging the loneliness. Life was certainly much better by the time my family joined me a year after my arrival in the UK.
 But the real game-changer? A December trip to Nigeria to attend late Dad’s funeral. For three weeks, my children attended weddings, family reunions, and village gatherings. They danced to Afro beats, enjoyed the weather, learned their native language, and experienced the bustle of Nigerian community life.
By the time they returned to London, they understood that "family is everything." For many Nigerian immigrants, this is how family ties stay strong—through intentional connection, cultural immersion, and the power of shared experiences.
Impact of distance
Life abroad can be very busy, and without regular contact, relationships often become strained. Many parents quickly discover that children raised overseas may struggle to form meaningful relationships with their extended families in Nigeria.
 Weddings, birthdays, and naming ceremonies are important aspects of Nigerian culture. Being physically distant risk missing out on these priceless family moments that strengthen bonds. Hence, distance often leads to missed milestones & celebrations.
Many Nigerian parents fear their children will grow up without speaking their native language, understanding traditional customs, or knowing their true heritage.
 They often desire to tap from the collective wisdom & stories of Grandparents, uncles, and aunties to shape a child’s identity. Without this connection, younger generations may feel disconnected from their family history.
So how have Nigerians overcome these challenges and keep family bonds strong?
Cultural literacy
By teaching children about Nigerian culture, such as proverbs, traditional attire, native languages, and storytelling, parents help them stay connected to their roots. Parents also introduce them to Nigerian movies, Afro beats music, and books to keep culture alive.Â
Technology such as WhatsApp, Zoom, and Facebook have made staying connected easier for families. Besides, there are opportunities in many countries for attending Nigerian community events abroad.
Events such as Independence Day parties create mini-Nigeria moments and ensure children grow up with a sense of home, even in the diaspora. These are often organized by associations, churches, and cultural groups and create a sense of extended family.
 ''Detty December" is a time for families to visit home at Christmas to reconnect and pass down traditions. Immigrants also regularly send financial support back home, strengthening emotional ties and making family in Nigeria feel valued and remembered.
Be Strong
Nigerian diasporans may live thousands of miles away, but their hearts remain at home. Through intentional visits, digital connection, cultural immersion, and active community participation, they ensure that family bonds stay strong across generations.
The main lesson is that keeping family close isn’t automatic—it takes effort. Whether it's through 'Detty December' trips, Sunday jollof nights, or weekly WhatsApp check-ins, Nigerian families find creative ways to bridge the distance.
Are you a Nigerian living abroad? How do you stay connected to family back home? Drop your best family bonding tips in the comments!Â