## Challenges of parenting in the diaspora
In the report, Biodun Busari explores how Nigerian parents living abroad struggle to raise their children in societies whose values often differ from African traditions. Parents who migrated in search of better lives now face the task of preserving Nigerian discipline, respect, and family cohesion while adapting to foreign norms.
## Cultural clashes and discipline
Many parents discover that disciplinary methods considered normal in Nigeria can conflict with laws and social expectations in their host countries. Practices meant to protect and guide children may be interpreted as unacceptable or even abusive, putting families under scrutiny and creating constant anxiety around everyday parenting decisions.
## Emotional and practical pressures
Raising children abroad turns out to be demanding not only financially but also emotionally, psychologically, and physically. Parents must balance long working hours, complex immigration realities, and school requirements while trying to stay emotionally present for their children and help them integrate into a different culture.
## Between two value systems
Nigerian parents abroad often find themselves mediating between African communal, respect‑driven upbringing and more individualistic Western approaches. Some appreciate that host countries encourage listening to children and protecting their self‑esteem, yet worry that overindulgence and excessive restrictions on discipline weaken parental authority.
## Parenting with awareness of local laws
Community and faith leaders stress that parenting in countries like the UK becomes less daunting when parents fully understand and respect local laws. They emphasise the need to create time to bond with children, communicate clearly, and adapt methods so that cultural values are preserved without breaking regulations or risking intervention from authorities.
> “There are things to learn from their side, and things to retain from our culture. In the UK, parents first listen to children before reacting. Back home in Nigeria, we react first before listening.”
> “The secret here is to ensure that you understand British laws and obey them. Most parents don’t pay attention to this fact because they forget that every country has its own laws.”
### Author’s summary
This article shows how Nigerian parents abroad walk a fine line between preserving their cultural values and obeying foreign laws, while coping with emotional strain, identity conflicts, and the constant need to adapt their parenting style.
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The Punch on MSN — 2025-11-30