Understanding Culture Shock: A Nigerian’s Experience in Canada and the UK

Understanding Culture Shock: A Nigerian’s Experience in Canada and the UK

Moving to a new country can be exciting, but it often comes with unexpected surprises. For many Nigerians who relocate to Canada or the United Kingdom, the reality of everyday life can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. This emotional and psychological experience is called culture shock, and it’s more common than you might think.

Culture shock doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It’s a natural response to being in an unfamiliar environment. From how people talk to what they eat, to how they raise their children or interact at work, everything might feel out of place at first. But once you understand it, you can begin to adjust and even enjoy your new home.

Let’s take a look at what culture shock looks like for Nigerians in both Canada and the UK.

Life in Canada: Cold Weather, Warm Smiles

One of the first things that hits most Nigerians when they arrive in Canada is the weather. It’s not just cold — it’s really cold. Winters can be long and brutal, especially if you're landing in places like Alberta or Manitoba. Learning to dress in layers, use space heaters, or even shovel snow might be completely new experiences.

Then comes the social aspect. Canadians are known for being polite and kind, but they also value personal space and tend to be more reserved than Nigerians. You might greet a neighbour and get a quick smile or wave, but don’t expect deep conversations right away. Building relationships can take time.

In the workplace, things are usually casual but professional. Titles are not a big deal, and people often refer to their managers by first name. At first, this may feel disrespectful to Nigerians who are used to showing more formal respect to authority figures. On the flip side, Canadians appreciate openness and constructive feedback, even from junior staff.

Another area where Nigerians often face adjustment is parenting. Canadian society frowns upon corporal punishment, and what may be seen as discipline in Nigeria could easily be flagged as child abuse here. Children are encouraged to express themselves, even when they disagree — something that might feel uncomfortable to Nigerian parents who were raised to “speak only when spoken to.”

And let’s not forget the food. Finding ingredients for your favourite dishes like egusi, ogbono, or suya might require a trip to a specialty African store. Most Canadians are fine with a sandwich for lunch, while Nigerians are used to hot, home-cooked meals. These differences can feel small at first, but they add up.

Still, once you settle into a routine and connect with other Nigerians or African communities, life begins to make more sense. You start to appreciate things like universal healthcare, the peaceful atmosphere, and opportunities for your children.

Life in the UK: Familiar Language, Unfamiliar Culture

Many Nigerians feel a sense of connection to the UK because of the shared colonial history and the English language. But don’t be fooled — British culture is quite different from what you might expect.

First, the accent can be a challenge. Even though it's English, it’s not the same English you’re used to. Between the slang, local expressions, and different regional dialects, you might find yourself asking people to repeat themselves more than once.

The British are very polite but tend to speak indirectly. For instance, when they say “that’s interesting,” they might actually mean “I don’t agree with you.” Nigerians, who are known for being direct and expressive, may find this confusing or even frustrating.

Social life in the UK can also feel isolating. People are generally private, and it’s not common to know your neighbours well. That strong sense of community that exists in Nigerian towns and cities is often missing. It takes effort to build a support network, especially if you’re not plugged into a church or community group.

Queuing, or lining up, is a serious cultural norm. In Nigeria, lines can be flexible, but in the UK, cutting the queue is a major offence. You’ll also notice how seriously the British take punctuality, proper greetings, and table manners.

Parenting is similar to Canada in many ways. Children are seen as individuals with opinions, and physical discipline is not acceptable. It’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a parent in a different legal system.

When it comes to food, Nigerian restaurants and African stores are easier to find in larger cities like London, Birmingham, or Manchester. But if you’re in smaller towns, be prepared to cook your own jollof rice and pounded yam from scratch.

Despite these cultural gaps, many Nigerians thrive in the UK. The healthcare system, access to education, and a relatively familiar legal and political system make it easier to navigate in the long run.

Embracing the Change

Culture shock often moves in stages. At first, everything feels exciting, new weather, new people, a new way of doing things. But after a few weeks or months, the frustration sets in. You might miss home, feel misunderstood, or get tired of pretending to fit in. Eventually, though, you begin to adjust. You learn the shortcuts, the unspoken rules, and how to find your own community in this new land.

Whether in Canada or the UK, the key to overcoming culture shock is patience and openness. Ask questions. Seek support. Give yourself grace. And remember: You’re not alone. Thousands of Nigerians have walked this path before you, and found a way to thrive.