Nigerian comedian and television host Teju Babyface has admitted that relocating his family to the United States felt like the “biggest mistake” of his career, citing unforeseen challenges and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a recent YouTube video, the entertainer said: “The issue with life is that we almost suffer from ‘the grass is greener on the other side’ syndrome … that other place looks very green, very rosy, very appealing … The problem is that we don’t see the challenges of that side from where we are standing.”
He revealed that despite being confident the move was the “next step” for his family and career, the onset of the pandemic threw his plans into disarray, prompting a period of deep doubt.
“For about three years, I was convinced that I had made the biggest mistake of my life. That I had shot myself in the foot.”
The revelation contributes to ongoing conversations about the so-called “japa” culture—where Nigerians relocate abroad in search of greener pastures—and the real-life difficulties that can accompany such decisions. Babyface’s candour may encourage others to reassess expectations about life overseas and consider local opportunities.
