Hello, I’m Dr. Charles Apoki, and as much as I’ve enjoyed my time here in Europe, this trip has shown me why Nigeria remains the best soil for me. Every nation has its advantages and challenges, and I’ve gained valuable insights here—particularly about the cost of living, the value of skills, and the importance of realistic expectations for anyone thinking of making a move abroad.
One of the first things I noticed was the price difference for everyday items we might take for granted back home. For example, a batch of plantains and Golden Morn here in Dortmund cost about €37.80. Converted to Nigerian naira, that’s over ₦66,000! Think about it—₦66,000 for plantains and cereal alone! That’s nearly equivalent to the monthly minimum wage in Nigeria. And it doesn’t stop there; rent and utilities are significant expenses here. Rent alone can run up to €683 a month (close to ₦1 million), and that’s without even considering water, electricity, school fees, and other essentials.
This experience made it clear that life in Europe isn’t as simple as it may appear in photos. Many here work two or three jobs just to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. If you’re thinking of coming here, I suggest developing marketable skills that can secure employment or business opportunities. Coming to Europe or America without a plan or a skill set is risky, especially when the reality is far different from what social media might show.
Another valuable lesson from my time here is the potential of running an African grocery business abroad. Common items like Maggi cubes or Golden Morn, which we take for granted back home, are highly sought after and expensive here. African shops sell them at a premium, covering shipping, customs, and high operating costs. This demand presents an excellent business opportunity for anyone considering opening such stores abroad—but be prepared for the expenses involved.
For those of you contemplating a move, it’s worth considering that building a stable and prosperous life is possible in Nigeria too. By investing in our own businesses, creating multiple income streams, and building wealth locally, we can live comfortably. Imagine enjoying traditional meals like amala and goat meat or cow leg at a fraction of the cost while being in a familiar, culturally rich environment. Yes, there are challenges in Nigeria—particularly with healthcare, education, and security—but we can work to improve these sectors for a better future.
I’ll soon be returning to Nigeria to continue contributing to my community. I have a conference coming up on November 8th and 9th, where I’ll be discussing practical ways to live a life of influence and impact. You can register by sending a message to +234 80 21 21 9262.
Thank you for reading, and God bless you.
I remain your friend,
Dr. Charles Apoki
