Big Brother Naija alumna and social media personality, Anita Natacha Akide, popularly known as Tacha, has stirred a heated debate online after making a bold declaration about life in the United Kingdom. In a candid Instagram video posted on her page, the outspoken influencer shared her personal observations and experiences during her stay in the UK, asserting that many residents in the country are struggling financially—contrary to the glamorous image often portrayed on social media.
Tacha, who spent the last two months living in the UK, did not hold back in her assessment of the economic situation. According to her, a significant number of people in the UK, especially immigrants, are simply getting by and have become masters of “packaging”—a Nigerian slang that refers to presenting a polished, often exaggerated image of wealth and success.
“I’ve met the most broke people in the UK,” she stated firmly. “You see those of you in Nigeria who always think everyone abroad is balling, please wake up. Most people here are just managing. The cost of living is crazy, everything is expensive as f**k, and people are literally just trying to survive.”
Her comments have generated waves across social media platforms, prompting reactions from Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. While some applauded her for shedding light on the often-hidden realities of life abroad, others criticized her for what they saw as a sweeping generalization.
Tacha also took the opportunity to speak directly to Nigerians contemplating relocation to the UK. She advised that migration decisions should not be made solely on the belief that life abroad is inherently easier or better.
“If you’re planning to move here, let it not be because you think life will automatically become sweet. I’m telling you from experience—most Nigerians I know back home are living more comfortably than many of the immigrants I’ve met here,” she said.
Her statement comes at a time when thousands of Nigerians are seeking to emigrate due to economic hardship, insecurity, and limited job opportunities back home. The UK, in particular, has seen a sharp rise in migration numbers from Nigeria in recent years, with many pursuing education, work, or a better quality of life.
However, Tacha’s remarks have opened a conversation on the true cost of relocation, especially as many immigrants in the UK grapple with skyrocketing rent, utility bills, and a complex job market. Her post challenges the “Japa” narrative—Nigeria’s popular term for relocating abroad—as one that is often romanticized without considering the real financial and emotional toll it can take.
Social media users have weighed in with mixed reactions. One user wrote, “Tacha is right. A lot of people are just doing damage control abroad. Life is hard, but no one wants to admit it.” Another, however, commented, “She’s just being unnecessarily dramatic. Everyone’s experience is different. You can’t just generalize the entire UK based on your short stay.”
Despite the backlash, Tacha’s video has ignited an important dialogue on the realities of living abroad versus the perception from those back home in Nigeria. It serves as a reminder that while relocation can offer new opportunities, it also comes with challenges that are often not discussed openly.
As the conversation continues to trend, one thing is clear: Tacha has once again used her platform to spark national—and international—discourse, reminding many that the grass may not always be greener on the other side.
For Nigerians both at home and abroad, her message might be a wake-up call to approach relocation with both eyes open, and not merely as an escape route from the challenges of life in Nigeria.
