The Nigerian spirit of rising from failure, and ultimately achieving triumph is captured in the slogan, ‘Naija no dey carry last.’ This mentality fosters a never-say die attitude, and accounts for the remarkable successes Nigerians score in life — from academia to entertainment.
Failure is that unannounced and unwelcome visitor that tags along on many success stories. For many Nigerians living abroad, it shows up as a job lost overnight, a visa renewal denied, or a business dream that never quite took flight. It is the weight of reality pressing down hard on the dreams of those chasing possibility.
But rising from failure is a character trait of Nigerians. They weathered fuel scarcity, electricity blackouts, and surmounted countless curveballs with grit and grace. Failure not only sharpens us, but sometimes sets the stage for something greater.
Across the diaspora, thousands of Nigerians are rewriting their stories — turning setbacks into comebacks, and endings into bold new beginnings. All it takes is the courage to bounce back, the Nigerian way.
Rising From Failure Strongly
Tunde arrived in London brimming with ambition. With a first-class degree from Unilag and dreams of postgraduate glory, he believed success was just a matter of time. But within two years, the shine had faded. He was unemployed, behind on rent, and his once-busy LinkedIn inbox had gone silent.
One bitter November morning, while refusing to surrender to despair, Tunde did what Nigerians do best-rising from failure. He began volunteering at a local food bank, where unexpected connections introduced him to data analysis. He dove into free online courses, picked up freelance gigs, and slowly began to rebuild not just his skills, but his confidence.
A year later, he had landed a tech role at a multinational firm, because he refused to stay down. Tunde’s journey is a reminder that failure isn’t the end of the road, but can be the beginning of a better one.
The Pain Of Failure
Living abroad as a Nigerian isn’t just about chasing personal dreams, but almost like carrying the hopes of an entire village. You’re representing your family and community, just as much as yourself. So when things go wrong, it feels like you’ve let everyone down.
In our culture, success is often celebrated loudly — weddings, promotions, new homes. On the other hand, failure is whispered, hidden, buried beneath smiles and loud silence. And in that quiet, many feel alone.
The reality of survival abroad is that life doesn’t pause for heartbreak. While trying to navigate your unpaid rent or mortgage, you realize that remittances are still expected. You simply smile through the stress, because the bills won’t wait for your emotions to catch up.
Most folks probably attained some measure of recognition as “somebody” back home, before ‘JAPA’. However, this acclaim and fame is neither respected, or valued abroad, meaning that you’re often just another worker on a payroll. That shift in identity can cut deep, leaving you questioning your worth.
Keep Rising From Failure
The path to redemption for many Nigerians begin by owning their story. They understand that failure is part of the story. By speaking openly about their struggles, they find healing, and attract the kind of support that only honesty can invite.
Nigerians understand that they are not alone, and can lean on their tribe in times of challenge. Whether it’s fellow Nigerians, African associations, or faith communities, your network is your strength. Someone out there who stumbled where you’ve stumbled, and can help shine light the way forward.
People who rise from failure never wait for perfect conditions. The Nigerian way is to work while waiting for fortune to smile — freelancing, upskilling, or trying that side gig. It is about turning lemons to lemonade.
Nigerians are big on faith that has carried generations through storms. So pair your prayers with a plan, and create a vision board. Consider three things you’ll rebuild this year, and let your faith fuel your focus.
You may not be where you want to be yet, but remember that every small win matters. Celebrate that new certification, cleared debt, or just a better day than yesterday. Give yourself credit for still still standing.
You Are Not Your Failure
The Nigerian story is one of survival and reinvention. From Lagos traffic to London winters, we’ve learned to find humor, strength, and hope in every circumstance.
Failure may slow you down, but it does not erase your destiny. Just make sure your faith, focus, and fire stay intact.
What about you? Have you faced a tough setback abroad and found your way back? Share your story below — someone else might just find their hope in your words.
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