Many Nigerian parents move abroad, seeking better education and career prospects for their children. However, raising children in a foreign land comes with challenges that impact cultural identity, family values, and social behavior. Nigerian culture thrives on respect, community, and strong family ties, but these values often weaken in a foreign environment.
Cultural Differences and Erosion of Traditional Values
One major challenge is the stark cultural contrast between Nigeria and many Western or foreign societies. In Nigeria, children grow up honoring parents, grandparents, and community leaders, fostering responsibility and belonging. Respect for elders, adherence to family traditions, and a strong sense of community define Nigerian upbringing.
In contrast, many foreign cultures prioritize individualism over communal values. The focus on personal freedom and self-expression can reduce children’s inclination to show the respect expected in Nigerian society. Over time, they may adopt behaviors that clash with traditional Nigerian teachings, creating tension within the family.
Lack of Community Support
In Nigeria, extended family and the community play a vital role in raising children. Parents rely on relatives, neighbors, and elders to help instill cultural values and discipline. However, in a foreign country, this support system is often missing. Parents may feel isolated, solely responsible for passing down cultural traditions without reinforcement from a wider community.
Without exposure to Nigerian customs, children may adopt behaviors such as informal speech with elders or questioning authority—actions seen as normal abroad but disrespectful in Nigerian culture.
Identity Crisis and Cultural Dissonance
Children raised abroad often struggle to balance two cultural identities. Nigerian culture is rich in language, customs, and history, all of which build a strong sense of self. However, in a foreign environment, the dominant culture may overshadow their Nigerian heritage.
This identity struggle can appear in several ways:
- Preference for foreign customs over Nigerian traditions
- Difficulty speaking their native language
- Feeling disconnected from Nigerian culture and values
Over time, this cultural dissonance can impact self-esteem and the sense of belonging within both family and community.
Differences in Parenting and Authority
Western societies often promote egalitarian relationships, encouraging children to express opinions and challenge authority. While this approach fosters independence, it can conflict with Nigerian parenting, which emphasizes respect for elders and clear family hierarchy.
As a result, children raised abroad may challenge parental authority more than they would in Nigeria. This shift can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts, as Nigerian parents struggle to align their cultural expectations with the realities of foreign society.
Moral and Ethical Differences
Nigeria emphasizes communal responsibility, religious values, and moral discipline. These values take root through family traditions, religious teachings, and social expectations. However, many foreign societies promote a more liberal and secular approach, shaping children’s attitudes toward authority, discipline, and ethics.
Parents may struggle to instill traditional Nigerian morals if they conflict with prevailing values in foreign education systems and social environments. Without active parental involvement, children may adopt beliefs and behaviors that contradict Nigerian cultural expectations.
Conclusion
Raising children in a foreign country offers valuable opportunities but presents significant challenges for Nigerian parents. Cultural differences, eroding respect, identity struggles, and the lack of community support can create a disconnect between parents and children.
To overcome these challenges, Nigerian parents must actively integrate cultural values into their children’s upbringing. This can be achieved by:
- Teaching native languages at home
- Encouraging participation in Nigerian cultural events
- Building a strong Nigerian community abroad
- Reinforcing respect and family traditions
By balancing foreign influences with Nigerian heritage, parents can ensure their children grow up with a strong sense of identity and deep respect for their cultural roots.
