Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, full of new opportunities, cultures, and experiences. However, it’s important not to overlook the impact it can have on one’s mental health. Nigerians, known for their resilience and humor, often resort to “japa-ing” (a Nigerian slang term for escaping) to cope with the challenges of settling in a foreign land. In this hilarious blog post, we embark on a comedic journey to explore the rollercoaster of emotions and the eccentric strategies Nigerians employ to maintain their sanity while japa-ing abroad.

The Initial Excitement: A Blend of Euphoria and Confusion

The moment a Nigerian sets foot in a new country, it’s like stepping into a parallel universe. The excitement is palpable, accompanied by a generous sprinkle of confusion. From deciphering foreign signs to adapting to different accents, Nigerians find themselves in a whirlwind of hilarious encounters. Picture a Nigerian attempting to order food, only to end up with a plate of unknown delicacies and a bewildered expression. It’s all part of the comedy show we call “Japa and the City.”

Homesickness: A Nostalgic Dose of Hilarity

No matter how thrilling the new country may be, homesickness eventually creeps in, leaving Nigerians longing for the familiar sights, sounds, and tastes of home. From lamenting the absence of Nigerian street food to engaging in late-night Skype sessions with family members, Nigerians find hilarity in their attempts to recreate a taste of home. Cue the image of a Nigerian desperately searching for a local African store to acquire some pounded yam and egusi soup ingredients, only to discover they’ve been sold “Igbo Comedy” CDs instead.

Language Mishaps: Lost in Translation

One of the most amusing aspects of japa-ing is the language barrier. Nigerians, renowned for their colorful and expressive use of English, often find themselves in hilarious situations when trying to communicate in a foreign tongue. Picture a Nigerian attempting to order “amala” and “ewedu” at a local restaurant, only to end up with puzzled looks from the server and a plate of “pancakes” and “green smoothie.” These linguistic misadventures become the stuff of legends, shared in laughter with friends and family back home.

Weather Woes: From Extreme Heat to Extreme Cold

Nigerians are well-acquainted with the sweltering heat of their homeland, but nothing prepares them for the icy grip of winter in some foreign countries. Witnessing a Nigerian bundled up in layers upon layers of clothing, looking like a walking snowman, can bring tears of laughter to even the coldest hearts. The transformation from “hot weather warriors” to “penguin impersonators” is a comedic spectacle that Nigerians embrace with open arms, albeit with a shiver.

Cultural Clashes: Embracing the Weird and Wonderful

Living in a new country means encountering cultural norms and traditions that are vastly different from what Nigerians are accustomed to. From learning to navigate public transportation systems to deciphering social cues, Nigerians find themselves in hilarious situations. Imagine a Nigerian attending a local costume party and showing up in vibrant traditional attire, only to realize they are the only ones dressed like a “Nollywood superstar” amidst a sea of superheroes and witches. The resulting blend of confusion and amusement becomes a cherished memory.

The Power of Laughter: Comedy as a Coping Mechanism

Throughout the ups and downs of japa-ing, Nigerians rely on their comedic prowess to maintain their mental well-being. Laughter becomes a coping mechanism, a lifeline to navigate the unfamiliar territories of a new country. Sharing funny anecdotes, engaging in playful banter, and indulging in Nigerian comedy shows provide solace and remind Nigerians that humor is the universal language that can bridge any cultural divide.

All in all, nothing beats the feeling of tweeting the picture of Eniola salami in King of Boys 2 and a photo of you in the airport with the caption “Welcome to a new dispensation”