By Prosper Mene
Reality TV star and entrepreneur Tacha Akide has ignited widespread conversation with her sincere remarks about the financial struggles faced by many in the United Kingdom. In a recent statement, the Big Brother Naija alumna challenged the common perception among some Nigerians that life abroad, particularly in the UK, equates to wealth and prosperity.
“You see those of you always having inferiority complex in Nigeria, thinking everyone here is rich, most people here are broke. The most broke people I have met are actually the people I met in the UK. Everyone is holding themselves. It is expensive,” Tacha said, addressing Nigerians who idealize life overseas. Her comments, shared during a discussion that gained traction on social media, have ignited debates about economic realities in the UK and Nigeria.
Tacha’s remarks is coming at a time when economic challenges in the UK, including rising living costs and inflation, have been widely reported. According to posts circulating across social media, her observations aligns with some who note that the UK’s economic landscape is far from rosy. “The living conditions in this country are not rosy. If you want to move, you can still do so, but know it is not rosy here,” she added, emphasizing the harsh realities faced by many residents.
The reality star’s statement have drawn mixed reactions. Some Nigerians agree with Tacha, arguing that the cost of living in the UK such as covering rent, utilities, and transportation, often outstrips incomes, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. Others, however, view her comments as an oversimplification, pointing out that financial challenges exist globally, including Nigeria, where economic pressures like unemployment and inflation are also significant.
One X user fine-tuned Tacha’s sentiments, saying, “Most people in the UK are broke. Nigerians are actually living better than people living in the UK.” Meanwhile, another user highlighted systemic issues in the UK, noting that “47% of UK adults face economic precarity, with disabled people hit hardest,” solidifying the broader context of Tacha’s claims.
By sharing her observations, Tacha urges Nigerians to reconsider assumptions about wealth and success overseas, encouraging a more grounded perspective.
As the conversation continues to unfold on platforms like X, Instagram and Facebook, Tacha’s remarks serve as a reminder of the complex economic realities faced by individuals both in Nigeria and abroad. Whether her statements will influence perceptions of migration or spark further debate remains to be seen, but they have undoubtedly struck a chord.
