In a recent video shared on his YouTube channel, the entertainer reflected on the challenges that came with his relocation and the reality behind what he described as the “grass is greener syndrome.”
According to Teju, many people are often drawn to the idea that life is better abroad without fully understanding the struggles that may come with it.
“The issue with life is that we almost suffer from the ‘grass is greener on the other side’ syndrome,” he said. “When we’re standing in one position and looking at another from afar, that other side looks greener, more appealing, and we want to be there. The problem is, we don’t see the challenges of that side from where we’re standing.”
The comedian revealed that he moved to the U.S. with full confidence that it was the right decision for his family and career. However, the unexpected outbreak of COVID-19, just months after their arrival, made the transition far more difficult than anticipated.
“When we were leaving Nigeria, I knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that it was the necessary next step in my career evolution,” he said. “But when the challenges started—especially with COVID-19—I was convinced I had made the biggest mistake of my life. For about three years, I thought I had taken a ruinous risk.”
Teju described the period as one of deep uncertainty, explaining that the experience gave him a new appreciation for a lyric by legendary musician King Sunny Ade.
“For the first time, I could understand what King Sunny Ade meant when he sang that song,” he shared. “I had been singing it all my life, but I only truly understood it after going through that phase.”
Despite the challenges, the comedian’s story serves as a reflection on resilience, perspective, and the realities of starting over in a new country — a journey many migrants can relate to.