For the millions in the diaspora (our beloved “IJGBs”), December is a highly anticipated homecoming—a month of reconnection, Afrobeats, and relentless cultural energy. And yet, this trip is often less of a vacation and more of a marathon, laden with cultural pressures, logistical frustrations, and emotional demands.
The secret to a successful diaspora trip isn’t just about having a booked-and-busy event calendar; it’s rather in the mental and logistical preparedness. Breaking this down, it simply means that if you want to relax, you must anticipate the unique stresses of December in Nigeria.
The Mental Preparedness: Setting Boundaries Before Boarding
The biggest drain on energy during this period is the constant feeling of being “on call” for family and friends.
- The Three-Layer Buffer: Set expectations early, ideally before you touchdown in the motherland. Communicate these key buffers to loved ones:
- The Jet Lag Buffer (First 48 Hours): Clearly state that the first two days are for rest, unwinding, and running minimal (if any) errands. No big parties or demanding visits allowed.
- The Financial Buffer: Gently push back on unsolicited requests for funds or gifts by explaining you have a strict, pre-allocated budget for the trip. You are here for presence, not perpetual presents.
- The Event Buffer: Don’t overcommit. Have a polite, stock answer ready for invitations you don’t want to accept, like: “That sounds lovely, but my schedule is tight this week. I’m prioritizing relaxing this trip!”
Lastly, Embrace the “Nigerian Time” Mindset. Revert your clock on deadlines and punctuality. Stressing over traffic jams or a tailor missing a deadline is futile and exhausting. Accept that things will move slowly, plans will change, and a 20-minute drive can become a 2-hour ordeal. This radical acceptance is key to having mental peace in Nigeria, most especially in Lagos.
Logistical Prep And Minimizing Service Shocks
The differences in services, infrastructure, and commerce can cause daily micro-frustrations. Prepare your tools and expectations to mitigate these shocks.
- The Power Solution: Do not rely solely on the main grid or family generators. Your personal must-haves are: a high-capacity power bank (20,000mAh minimum), a surge protector for charging sensitive electronics, and, ideally, a portable solar lamp or fan if you’re staying in an area with inconsistent power.
- Internet Access Strategy: Purchase a local SIM card immediately upon arrival (or pre-order one if possible). Buy a substantial data plan and utilize a dual-SIM phone so you can easily manage your international number (for banking/apps) and your local number (for communication and ride-hailing).
- Cash vs. Card Management: Have a small stash of clean, lower-denomination cash for tipping and quick market purchases, but rely heavily on mobile banking and digital transfers for larger transactions. Be aware that the reliability of POS machines can vary. Set up local payment apps (e.g., specific Nigerian banking apps) before your trip, if possible.
Familial Pressures: Navigating the Extended Stay
Staying with family is a beautiful experience, but this often comes with built-in obligations that can erode your relaxation time.
- Contribute Logistically (But “Use Your Head”): Instead of just dropping money, offer to run specific errands (when traffic is low) or manage household tasks that take the burden off your host (e.g., setting up the internet, sorting the laundry schedule). This shows respect and frees up your host.
- The Independent Sanctuary: Even if you’re staying with family, budget for a short weekend getaway or a “staycation” in a small hotel or serviced apartment mid-trip. This is your mental sanctuary—a planned block of time where you are guaranteed privacy, air conditioning, and silence. Treat it as non-negotiable self-care.
- Schedule Social Time (But Keep It Short): Schedule “open house” or “visiting hours” (e.g., Saturday afternoon tea) where friends and distant relatives know they can catch you. Limiting these catch-up sessions to designated times prevents continuous drop-ins that break your routine.
Bottom Line
I believe that a truly successful diaspora trip isn’t about how many concerts you attended, but how rested and renewed you feel when you board the return flight. For the IJGB, this means letting go of the need for Western-style efficiency and replacing it with strategic pre-planning, strong boundaries, and a healthy dose of patience. Your trip home should be a reset, not a mental health reset. Be strategic.
