Teju Babyface regret relocating to US
Nigerian comedian and talk-show host Teju Babyface (real name Teju Oyelakin) has reflected candidly on his relocation to the United States, stating he initially believed he had made the “biggest mistake” of his life. In a recent interview, he revealed that while the move offered safety and opportunities, it also triggered deep personal and professional doubts.
He explained that his popular Nigerian television programme improved in commercial terms after his departure, which surprised him and made him question the timing and wisdom of his move. He wondered whether the success of the show was “an action of the gods” who anticipated his new expenses in the U.S., or whether he should have stayed behind in Nigeria to capitalise on the momentum while physically present.
Teju Babyface said that two major factors motivated his move: the need to protect his family amidst concerns about personal safety in Nigeria, and frustration with repeated visa trips to the U.S. embassy. He secured what is known as an “exceptional ability” visa, thereby making his relocation lawful, and emphasised that the move was not a mere “japa” (slang for runaway migration) scenario.
Despite achieving some stability abroad, he admitted to being caught in a period of “existential crisis” that stemmed from stepping away from the limelight in Nigeria, being away from his roots and professional base, and witnessing his show flourish without his presence. The tension between physical relocation and professional permanence weighed on him heavily.
He also described the necessity of “tightening belts” and cutting down on non-essentials for his family after the move, despite the U.S. being perceived as a land of opportunity. This adjustment underscored the complexity of trading familiarity and established networks for new environments.
Nevertheless, Teju Babyface emphasised that he did not regret the decision entirely. Rather, he views the episode as a period of learning and growth. He stressed the importance of aligning one’s purpose with the decision to relocate, and of understanding that material success abroad does not always translate into emotional fulfilment.
