Comedian and television host Teju Babyface has shared an honest reflection on his relocation to the United States, admitting that he initially regretted the move.
Speaking in a recent YouTube video, Teju said many people mistakenly believe life is easier abroad, only to discover that every environment comes with its own challenges.
“The issue with life is that we almost suffer from ‘the grass is greener on the other side syndrome,’” he explained. “From where we stand, another place often looks greener, rosier, and more appealing. But we don’t see the challenges of that side until we get there.”
The entertainer revealed that his move to the U.S. came with unexpected difficulties, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic began shortly after he and his family settled in.
“When we were leaving Nigeria, I knew without a doubt that it was the necessary next step for my career and my family,” he said. “But when we got here and the challenges started—particularly with COVID-19 beginning a few months after—we felt lost. For about three years, I was convinced I had made the biggest mistake of my life.”
Teju described the experience as emotionally draining, adding that the tough period made him reflect deeply on a lyric by legendary Nigerian musician King Sunny Ade.
“I was convinced that I had taken a ruinous risk—the kind that leads to ruin,” he said. “For the first time, I truly understood the emotion behind King Sunny Ade’s song. I had sung it all my life, but it only made sense after that experience.”
