Canada-Based Nigerian Criticizes Oversharing on Social Media by Nigerians Abroad

 

A Nigerian woman based in Canada has recently called out Nigerians living abroad for their tendency to overshare personal details on social media, warning that such behaviour could result in avoidable misfortunes. In a viral video, she expressed frustration over Nigerians’ need to announce their arrival in foreign countries with nicknames such as “Toyin of Toronto” or “Balogun of Luton.” According to her, these actions reflect a lack of decorum and are unnecessary.

She emphasized that earlier generations of Nigerians who migrated abroad were far more cautious, often opting to deactivate their social media accounts to avoid drawing attention to themselves during their settlement period in new countries. In contrast, today's migrants often broadcast every aspect of their lives online, from airport arrivals to personal activities, which the Canadian-based Nigerian expert labeled as reckless.

Oversharing: A Growing Concern

The woman warned that such oversharing online not only exposes individuals to unnecessary risks but also paints Nigerians in a negative light. She pointed out that this behaviour could lead to resentment from local populations in host countries, as it perpetuates the stereotype of Nigerians being loud, careless, and potentially threatening.

As an example, she cited Ghana, where similar behaviour from Nigerians has reportedly resulted in increasing hostility towards them, with some locals calling for their expulsion. This, she argues, makes the experience of living abroad more challenging for fellow Nigerians.

Public Reactions to the Criticism

The expert’s remarks sparked a range of reactions across social media, with many Nigerians responding with humour and sarcasm. Some used the opportunity to mock the trend of oversharing, while others defended the practice, suggesting it was a form of self-expression and pride in their achievements.

One social media user, @Achilles007, humorously commented: “The gang awon… this is how we buy pepper in Canada, this is how we flush toilet in YouKay, this is how we drive on the road in America. Lol.”

Meanwhile, @Mufti_of_Ilorin playfully referred to himself as “Kinikan of Derby,” further satirizing the practice of adopting city-based nicknames. Others, like @JIMCRUZ, seemed to take the expert’s criticism more seriously, adding that some Nigerians abroad act in a way that seems overly ostentatious or out of touch with reality.

In conclusion, while the viral video sparked mixed reactions, the debate highlights an ongoing conversation about the role of social media in shaping perceptions of Nigerians abroad and how it might affect their integration and relationships with local communities in their host countries.