Make a successful move, get a one-way ticket to Nigeria

Of late, I have been getting a lot of questions about moving to Nigeria. The interest in Nigeria is not surprising. The Economist had this to say a few weeks ago about The new scramble for Africa: “Outsiders have noticed that the continent is important and becoming more so, not least because of its growing share of the global population (by 2025 the UN predicts that there will be more Africans than Chinese people). Governments and businesses from all around the world are rushing to strengthen diplomatic, strategic and commercial ties. This creates vast opportunities.”   

While that is an encouraging macro scenario, the professionals who are contemplating a move, naturally have their doubts. Will that be a canny move or professional suicide? Here are some of the most common questions I get to answer.

Should I move to Nigeria?

I guess your real question is if you should take the plunge and take a chance with moving to another country. Or if you should bide your time here and wait for the next big opportunity without leaving the comforts of home. Am I right?

Well, had it been the US or Europe, it would have been different. But Africa?

Let me caution you first. Nigeria is not Africa and Africa is not Nigeria. Every African country has its own dynamics. Yes, the continent as a whole is opening up to business and India and China and favoured nations, so to say. Having said that there is no escaping the homework that you and only you must do.

Maybe I will try it for some six months?

You wouldn’t even be discussing this opportunity with me unless you felt it was rewarding. My suggestion is not to go there half-hearted. Book a one-way ticket. Plan to give it your best for at least five years. Arm yourself the same kind of optimism you would wear when you start a new job in India. Back yourself to do well. And I know people who were reluctant to come back after 10 years in Nigeria.

My company wants me to head the operations there, leading a team of about 50. Do you think they would accept me?

I am sure if you were to move to another company within India, the same question would not have bothered you so much. Please remember that Nigeria has a history of getting the best talent from India. They pick professionals with integrity. They are used to the best from India and they have immense respect for Indian professionals. You are being sent to Nigeria there obviously because there is a gap there that you are best equipped to fill. As a leader, I am sure you will know and learn how to take your team along as you learn the ropes in an alien setting. I know, because I was more or less in the same situation when I was in Nigeria a good 20 years ago.

What was your experience like?

Well, it took me a while to break the ice with my deputy. He was hoping to lead the team before I was put there. The change happened about six months after I joined, when I dropped in with my wife to celebrate his daughter’s birthday. He did not expect his “foreign” boss to do that. Like I said, they have great respect for Indians, and they all handle English well. Both those should work in your favour. But don’t get carried away! It was a lot more difficult to get work done in those days. Even a simple telephone call was prohibitively expensive, even if you managed to get through. Now, they have Internet and some good shopping malls!

I know the compensation is good. But what about growth opportunities?

If you are looking for rapid growth based on your talent, you may be better off in India. But working in Nigeria is a challenge. Once you master that you may be in a better position to find an opportunity in a developed country. Many seasoned professionals have moved from Nigeria to Canada after long stints in Nigeria.

What if and when I come back?

I am sure you will find an opportunity that matches your skillset and experience. Not many Indian recruiters give any special weightage to a Nigerian exposure, but there have been exceptions. It all boils down to your calibre and the case you make for yourself.

But what about family commitments?

You will be very busy and a continent away. Please be ready to disentangle a little. Perhaps there is someone who can take over from you? The truth is you cannot do justice to yourself professionally or personally if your heart remains in India while your mind tries to do its best in Nigeria.

Any other tips?

It is dangerous to generalize but, based on my experience, I have a few suggestions for you.

1. Don’t be hasty in answering questions. Ask more questions in response so that you have as much clarity as possible before you take a decision. Remember you are new in a new place with a new work culture.
2. They love to seek your opinion at every opportunity. Stay open to a discussion but don’t be in a hurry to swing one way or the other. Gather the facts and take your time.
3. Get a fix on the goal and direction and make sure your team is on board. Yes, you may need to tweak the direction a wee bit, but never ever change the goal. That can be very unsettling.
4. Finally, in case the course of action you chose unfortunately backfires, do not hesitate to own your action. You might be tempted (and even justified) to look for a scapegoat. Resist that because it can soon degenerate into an ugly you-versus-them situation that no one can win.

You mentioned your wife. That means you had moved there with your family?

Of course! With my wife and my children. I did go a month in advance to check the place out before taking my family there. My wife was charmed with the respect they accord to women and children. She also thinks that’s the best country in the world for the most wonderful, super efficient house help. Of course, you must remember to greet your driver and your maid every time you see them. And before you ask me, let me tell you there are good schools. Yes, some of the things we tend to take for granted in an Indian city (like regular electricity and water supply) were a challenge when we were in Nigeria. But the expatriates like us had it easier than the locals. Spending a few successful years in Nigeria does help you build up sufficient capital to boost your wings professionally. Very likely, your next generation will thank you for giving them a comfortable base.

Are you considering moving to Nigeria? Have questions? I will be happy to answer those to try and make the transition smoother. Please write to me at connect@leaderconnects.com