10 Apr 2025
Living in the Netherlands offers excellent opportunities, but being away from Nigeria can feel lonely. Many Nigerians miss home, their loved ones, and their familiar culture. Staying connected is essential to maintaining strong relationships and keeping the spirit of home alive. Here are some meaningful ways to bridge the distance.
Life in the Netherlands can get busy. Work, studies, and daily tasks can take over. Without a set routine, days turn into weeks without checking in with family. The best way to stay connected is to schedule regular calls or video chats. Whether it’s every Sunday evening or a quick midweek check-in, a routine ensures consistent communication.
Financial support is essential for many Nigerians with families back home. The fastest way to send money from the Netherlands to Nigeria is through reliable online money transfer services like ACE Money Transfer. But beyond money, sending gifts adds a personal touch. Ordering groceries, electronics, or traditional outfits for loved ones can bring them joy and make them feel cared for.
There are many Nigerian associations in the Netherlands. These groups help expats feel at home. Whether it’s a local Nigerian church, cultural group, or professional association, being part of a community brings comfort. Attending Nigerian Independence Day celebrations or small gatherings allows expats to meet fellow Nigerians, share experiences, and celebrate their culture.
Food is a powerful connection to home. The Netherlands has several Nigerian and African restaurants serving jollof rice, suya, egusi soup, and puff-puff. African grocery stores also stock Nigerian ingredients, allowing expats to cook traditional meals at home. Eating familiar food brings back memories and makes life abroad closer to home.
Staying updated on Nigerian news keeps expats informed about home. Websites like Channels TV, Punch, and The Guardian Nigeria provide real-time updates. Watching Nigerian movies and listening to Afrobeats or gospel music also helps maintain cultural ties. Platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and local Nigerian radio stations keep expats entertained while reminding them of home.
Nigerian fashion is vibrant and unique. Expats can stay connected by wearing traditional outfits like Ankara, agbada, or lace. Many Nigerian tailors and fashion brands ship worldwide. Attending Nigerian weddings or cultural events in the Netherlands is also a great way to showcase African fashion.
Nothing beats stepping back on Nigerian soil, no matter how long someone has lived abroad. Visiting home, even briefly, strengthens family bonds and reconnects expats with their roots. Planning a trip during festive periods like Christmas or Eid makes the experience even more special.
Social media is a great way to stay connected. Many Nigerian influencers share news, fashion, lifestyle tips, and entertainment. Following them on Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube helps expats keep up with home trends and feel connected to the Nigerian way of life.
The Nigerian community in the Netherlands includes many professionals excelling in different industries. Joining Nigerian business networks, LinkedIn groups, or WhatsApp forums can open doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations. Staying connected professionally also helps expats contribute to Nigeria’s economy through investments and partnerships.
Celebrating Nigerian traditions in the Netherlands keeps the culture alive. Organizing small gatherings for birthdays, traditional weddings, or Independence Day makes expats feel at home. Cooking Nigerian meals, playing Afrobeats, and dancing to local tunes help recreate the joy of being in Nigeria.
Many Nigerians in the Netherlands send money home to support their families or invest in businesses. Keeping track of Nigeria’s economic changes helps expats make smart financial decisions. Whether buying property, investing in small companies, or saving for retirement, staying informed is key.
Many Nigerians in the Netherlands run successful businesses, from hair salons to fashion boutiques and restaurants. Shopping at these businesses strengthens the Nigerian community and supports fellow expats. It also helps keep Nigerian culture alive in the Netherlands.
No matter how far Nigerians are from home, staying connected is possible. From regular communication to cultural celebrations, small efforts make a big difference. Need to send money to Nigeria from the Netherlands? Use ACE Money Transfer for fast and secure transactions. Keeping the Nigerian spirit alive is all about effort, love, and staying engaged with home!
No, but many international banks and online money transfer services allow Nigerians in the Netherlands to send and receive money easily.
Platforms like DSTV Now, YouTube, and online streaming services provide access to Nigerian news and entertainment channels.
Cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam have Nigerian churches where expats can worship and connect with their communities.
Several African shops and online stores sell Nigerian fabrics and ready-made outfits for cultural events and everyday wear.
Joining Nigerian community groups, attending cultural events, and networking through social media are great ways to meet fellow Nigerians.
