If someone had told me twenty years ago that I would one day build both a professional life and a second home in Nigeria, I may have smiled politely and dismissed it as unlikely. But life, as they say, often has its own plans. Today, with over 15 years of work experience in Nigeria—mostly in Lagos—I can confidently say that this incredible country has been more than just a workplace; it has been a life-shaping journey.
My name is Tammesh Singh. I’m 43 years old and currently serve as the Commercial Manager at New Age Energy Limited. My journey in Nigeria began in the frozen seafood and meat importation sector, a business that introduced me to the complex and colourful world of Nigerian trade. What started as a professional assignment slowly transformed into an emotional bond—one that has kept me rooted to this land for well over a decade.
Lagos is not for the faint of heart. It is a city that pulsates with energy, ambition, and ceaseless motion. The entrepreneurial spirit here is infectious. From bustling markets to boardrooms in skyscrapers, Lagosians hustle with unmatched determination. The business landscape is fiercely competitive, yet brimming with opportunity for those bold enough to take the plunge.
My early days were, to be honest, overwhelming. I was thrown into a world where power cuts were frequent, traffic jams could stretch for hours, and “African time” tested my patience. But amid the chaos, I discovered a rhythm—a way of life that demanded resilience, rewarded adaptability, and taught me lessons no business school could offer.
Navigating Nigeria’s business environment required me to become both a problem-solver and a people-person. Infrastructure issues, currency fluctuations, and hyperinflation presented real and immediate challenges. But these hurdles pushed me to think on my feet and, more importantly, to build strong relationships—with suppliers, officials, and customers.
I have watched the Naira rise and fall. I have seen policies shift overnight. And yet, despite all this volatility, there’s a quiet strength in the Nigerian business community—a belief that tomorrow can be better, and that hard work and perseverance will eventually pay off. That spirit is what kept me going, even when the odds felt stacked against me.
One of the most beautiful surprises Nigeria gave me was its people. Nigerians are warm, expressive, and incredibly welcoming. I remember my initial hesitation when I first arrived—the culture was unfamiliar, the accents difficult to follow, and the food, let’s just say, took some getting used to. But over time, these very differences became the bridges that connected me to a world so different from my own, yet so enriching.
From sharing jollof rice at a colleague’s home to dancing at local weddings, I have had the privilege of immersing myself in the cultural mosaic that is Nigeria. The relationships I have built here go far beyond business—they are friendships for life.
Yes, Nigeria has seen tough times—especially in recent years, with inflation biting into every sector and the local currency in a state of flux. But I have also seen how resilient this country is. Government efforts to stabilise the economy are beginning to show promise, and there’s a cautious optimism that things will improve.
The future, I believe, holds tremendous potential for Nigeria. With its young population, rich natural resources, and digital momentum, the country is poised for growth. And I feel proud to be part of this narrative in whatever small way I can contribute.
Living in Nigeria has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It has taught me to value human connections, to face adversity with a smile, and to never underestimate the power of a determined heart.
To those considering an adventure in Africa—whether for work, travel, or personal discovery—my message is simple: go with an open mind and an open heart. Africa has a way of surprising you, challenging you, and ultimately, changing you. Nigeria may have started as just another stop on my professional journey, but it ended up being a home away from home—an integral chapter in My Africa Story.
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