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Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) - Travel (46) - Nairaland

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Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 2) / Living In Canada/Life As A Canadian Immigrant Part 2 / Living In The Uk/life As A UK Immigrant (2) (3) (4)

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Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by hustla(m): 8:54am On Jun 06, 2023
jedisco:


Seems their thinking was their parents belonged to some 'prime stock' of Nigerians that the the white man gave the 'privilege' of immigration. Hence they want to set their own bar for immigrants. Fact is, their parents were just everyday Nigerians e.t.c with some opportunity.

House n*gga and field n*gga concept comes to mind

smiley

1 Like

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Zahra29: 9:42am On Jun 06, 2023
jedisco:


This is something I keep pondering on. Many times, many second generational folks I seen especially in less diverse cities have some identity crises. They're neither here nor there, worse still, they don't have enough numbers or a distinct culture.

Even on this thread, folks using denigrating words for new Nigerian legal immigrants are almost always second generation. Yet they strive to have some 9ja connection cos they want to be seen 'connecting with their roots'

Seems their thinking was their parents belonged to some 'prime stock' of Nigerians that the the white man gave the 'privilege' of immigration. Hence they want to set their own bar for immigrants. Fact is, their parents were just everyday Nigerians e.t.c with some opportunity.

Sentiment ruling over fact, per usual

How is it setting the bar for immigrants because a few voices on this thread expressed a different view to the majority and pointed out abuses and excesses in a system that had otherwise been fair and working well, which directly led to the system being changed. But it is acceptable to denigrate others e.g. claiming most British are unskilled and don't go to university or calling someone an akata.

Tbh I don't know any second or third gen Nigerian immigrants who suffer from identity crises. Most I see/know are doing very very well - financially and otherwise. Some choose to connect with their "roots", others are happy to stay away for various reasons. Home is where your heart is, not your roots.

4 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Akorkor(f): 9:53am On Jun 06, 2023
Zahra29:


As usual, sentiment ruling over facts.

How is it setting the bar for immigrants because a few voices on this thread expressed a different view to the majority and pointed out abuses and excesses in a system that had otherwise been fair and working well, which directly led to the system being changed. But it is acceptable to denigrate others e.g. claiming most British are unskilled and don't go to university or calling someone an akata.

Tbh I don't know any second or third gen Nigerian immigrants who have identity crises. Most I see/know are doing very very well - financially and otherwise. Some choose to connect with their "roots", others are happy to stay away for various reasons. Home is where your heart is, not your roots.

I have been observing your comments for some time, and although I appreciate your inclusion of certain factual points, I believe it is essential to allow others to express their own truths. Stating that some individuals are abusing and exploiting the system may not be accurate since the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) granted these individuals visas, and they made the necessary payments for those visas. Therefore, it is crucial to question where this alleged abuse come from. It seems as though Britain desires to have the best of both worlds, which is an unrealistic expectation. While I acknowledge that some individuals from my country can often be loud, I must disagree with your claim that they are mostly abusing the system

7 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Zahra29: 10:14am On Jun 06, 2023
Akorkor:

I have been observing your comments for some time, and although I appreciate your inclusion of certain factual points, I believe it is essential to allow others to express their own truths. Stating that some individuals are abusing and exploiting the system may not be accurate since the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) granted these individuals visas, and they made the necessary payments for those visas. Therefore, it is crucial to question where this alleged abuse come from. It seems as though Britain desires to have the best of both worlds, which is an unrealistic expectation. While I acknowledge that some individuals from my country can often be loud, I must disagree with your claim that they are abusing the system

I completely agree with the bolded. It works both ways however which is where respectful debate or dialogue should come in, not calling people names because they have a different view.

Please note that I never said that the majority abuse the system. That is definitely not the case. However, has there been abuse?(not just in Nigeria mind, other countries like India) - absolutely! Fake POF, sham marriages, working more than 20hrs etc , so I'm not sure why some are acting like it doesn't happen. And what's annoying is that the few bad apples then spoil it for others.

Because an individual obtains a visa does not mean it was obtained honestly. People even use deception to obtain ILR and British passport, which is why citizenship or residency can be stripped off if deception is discovered - even years after the event.

Is UKVI also culpable by sometimes being too greedy and lax - absolutely. I agreed with Justwise on this point. However they make the rules and can decide to say they've had enough.

I don't want to drag up the same issue all over again. I hear you sis, we can just agree to disagree on some points smiley

8 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Zahra29: 10:22am On Jun 06, 2023
dustydee:

Sorry I couldn't help it. Not a bad name actually. grin

It's got quite a nice ring to it hasn't it grin

If this was when T May was home sec, I would have been called Mayweather cool 😂🙈

1 Like

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by LagosismyHome(f): 10:23am On Jun 06, 2023
Godaloneisable:
Elders and dependants especially male I need your advice please.

I'm a dependant who is also working in uk. I appreciate my wife cos she spent over 70% of the funds we used while coming to uk and also took care of home for 2 months before i got a job. I was lucky to get a good job in Manchester 2 months after I got to uk which is a midlevel role in my career path as a systems engineer. My wife has refused to do anything at home cos she claims she wants to rest and I should be grateful that she brought me here. This is leading to serious arguments cos after paying rent, bills and food I'm left with almost nothing infact I had to borrow in the last 2 months because I bought some home appliances in our newly rented apartment.
Right now, I'm so confused because it's more like I am just working to spend and her money belongs to her strictly and she means it. I am careful cos I'm bound to her visa and I am even begging her to take just bills but she refused. This has been on for over 7 months and i can not boast of 2k savings even with 49k salary.

How do I manage this? Just confused tbh cos she's also working full time even grossing more than i

You need to find an older couple who been here and maybe can sit you both down

It's very draining for one person to carry the whole load. Be it the woman or the man.... with time it causes resentment and one person been burnt out.

Uk the marriage that works well are when the Two work hand in hand and together. I know naija has complexity with side chic so even I if I was in naija I won't want to work hand in hand and then a side chic will be cleaning out . ..lol. but maybe uk there is less issue of side chic but I am digressing

You both need to find people who been here long time and see how they are doing it. Ask her if she paying a loan in naija or when she start contributing more . If I knew you guy I would have invited you both for a cuppa and a chat .lol

4 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by LagosismyHome(f): 10:31am On Jun 06, 2023
I give up... was trying to catch up but almost one month behind smiley
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by ojtopsy: 10:36am On Jun 06, 2023
Thanks a lot
We will surely follow up on this and see how it goes.

Lexusgs430:


What is GMB doing about his case.......

That's the problem with zero hours contract...... They would just keep dragging their feet........

He needs to send a letter to the CEO of that trust...... Chronologically highlighting all the events so far......

Requesting an intervention from the CEO........ Not forgetting all the sufferings and hardship been encountered, due to all this unfolding events....... He can also sue the trust for loss of income.........
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Zahra29: 10:38am On Jun 06, 2023
LagosismyHome:
I give up... was trying to catch up but almost one month behind smiley

One month shocked
You have to be like me and start setting a daily reminder ,or better still a daily alarm, on your phone so you don't miss any posts (joking oh!) cheesy
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Akorkor(f): 10:49am On Jun 06, 2023
Zahra29:


I completely agree with the bolded. It works both ways however which is where respectful debate or dialogue should come in, not calling people names because they have a different view.

I don't want to drag up the same issue all over again. I hear you sis, we can just agree to disagree on some points smiley

Hug wink
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by smartz5311: 10:50am On Jun 06, 2023
[Please I applied for my dependant since 26th May 2022, and I have been tracking their application since then,, its been on the transferred to VAC since last week . I need advise on what to next
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Lolli2pop: 10:53am On Jun 06, 2023
Heyy fam, please what is the minimum amount of time a family needs when transiting through an airport with the same airline?
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by headofschool: 11:09am On Jun 06, 2023
Seniors...I need a job link at Lincoln area, or any remote job link. I will appreciate your contribution and assistance (female job)
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by dustydee: 11:34am On Jun 06, 2023
Zahra29:


It's got quite a nice ring to it hasn't it grin

If this was when T May was home sec, I would have been called Mayweather cool 😂🙈

grin
I still do not like Mrs May. Her policies cost me a lot of money.

2 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by CowbellY: 12:15pm On Jun 06, 2023
Lolli2pop:
Heyy fam, please what is the minimum amount of time a family needs when transiting through an airport with the same airline?

Depends on airport and family size. Qatar chucks the flights to Nigeria at Gate 44. All the way at the back. Once spent about 45 mins finding my way there.

Some airports are smaller. Others bigger and family size and swiftness matters too.

1 Like

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by gergemam: 3:29pm On Jun 06, 2023
Here's to someone thinking someone can't earn over 50K for North

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by gergemam: 3:30pm On Jun 06, 2023
smartz5311:
[Please I applied for my dependant since 26th May 2022, and I have been tracking their application since then,, its been on the transferred to VAC since last week . I need advise on what to next

2022? 😭😭🥺🥺
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Poanan: 4:13pm On Jun 06, 2023
lightnlife:
A record one in five first-time buyers are signing up to mortgages of more than 35 years as interest rates soar.

But while spreading out the loans makes them more affordable in the short term, it means homeowners will accrue thousands of pounds more debt on the interest over the lifetime of the mortgage.

In many cases, they will still be paying off the deals well into their 70s.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12158369/Proportion-time-buyers-taking-lengthy-loans-doubles-just-two-years.html
It doesnt work that way you can decide to pay up if you are frightened by the debt.

2 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by ojtopsy: 4:19pm On Jun 06, 2023
Thanks Semmyk for this insightful write up. its being worked on and progress will be shared

1 Like

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by ojtopsy: 4:42pm On Jun 06, 2023
semmyk:
Let's start off on this note.
I will try as much as i can to answer some of your queries to the best of my knowledge
- is the suspension with pay or without pay. Expectedly, it's with pay.( without pay)
- is there a letter of suspension. If so, did the letter mentioned... suspension in view of investigation towards disciplinary hearing ... If the letter includes statement similar to the italic, you would be under the ambit of labour matter. Then ACAS becomes your go-to for advice or to lodge complaint towards employment Tribunal.
If not, you might have to go the Court route on civil litigation. Going employment dispute might work best though.

PS: Bigtt76 asked if there's a recording. Kindly answer this.
If you're unsure, you'll need to demand.
NB: it appears your friend has been opening his mouth too wide. In law, silence is golden. One does not go gara gara, especially the typical 9ja way.

Herewith within the limit of one-sided [audi alteram partem]
-- ex patient or service user raised a sexual complaint
At the time of the alleged incident, it the patient a subsisting patient or ex patient
-- against her previous carer
Ditto, at the time of incident, is she, the patient, ex or current.
Was the complaint filed while a patient or ex patient
Is the patient claiming she stopped/revoke the care service due to the incidence
-- since last year August and he has been suspended from work ever since ... till now the issue is still on the table
From Aug 2022, we are looking upward of 9 mths. That's gross. Can investigation takes so long, yes it can. Should it, heck no.
Bearing no unforseen or unknown fact, your friend is within his right to file (labour) employment dispute.
Link: ACAS: Investigations for discipline ...
Approaching ACAS should be the first step, however, in most certainty,
your friend might need a good employment lawyer. Obviously, not charge and bail!!!

-- mentioned hes schooling in a university,
As mentioned earlier, your friend must learn to be circumspect with words while not uneconomical or labeled as uncooperative. It's a balance within the ambit of ... reserve the right to be silent 😷
-- so they now went ahead to write the Uni to inform them hes under investigation so the uni asked him to stay away until he is cleared ... ... the police have been invited and they couldnt find any evidence of misbehavior.
In this instance, let your friend approach the university with the police report (findings). On the basis of ... innocent until proven guilty ... the university should lift the bar.
If not, your friend lodge a dispute with the university ombudsman (if there's one) and/or OIAHE: Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education
Let your friend read more from Office for Students - https://www.officeforstudents.org.uk/for-students/ofs-and-students/complaints/complaints-about-a-university-or-college/
PS: if your friend can afford it, let him approach the likes of HCB Solicitor (hcbgroup {dot} com).

-- that very week wahala started
You mentioned earlier that ... It took months for the details of the so called offence that led to safeguard was even known o ...
Which is which. Kindly clarify.

You may want to read these regarding rights during investigation
[1] https://castleassociates {.} org.uk/ blog/i-am-being-investigated-at-work-what-are-my-rights
[2] www {.} richardnelsonllp.co.uk/ what-are-my-rights-if-im-being-investigated-at-work/

The advice herein are not construed as legal advisory as contemplated in law


suspension was without pay
there was a 2 years gap between when they were having patient carer relationship and when the lift and allegation thing happened
the offence was not disclosed until several months so it took the intervention of afenifere and well-wishers co-workers before he even got a clue why he was suspended in the first instance.
she raised the complaint after the lift and not as a service user. there was a gap.
Once again thanks for your time patience and obvious display of intelligence. It is really appreciated.

2 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by ELff: 7:44pm On Jun 06, 2023
CowbellY:


It says you applied as single but only put him as “dependent” usually, that’s a space for someone who is financially dependent on you not a partner per say, as long as you didn’t list him directly as a spouse/civil partner, it has no effect.

However, how does he intend to scale the path in Nigeria where he could now potentially be in possession of 1 and another pending marriage certificate, seems like you would have to get the divorce sorted asap or he comes as an unmarried/civil partner with his new beau.

Anyways, I wish you all the best. I appreciate your candour in trying to help him move forward (perhaps, this might help you move on (with maybe new partner) as well).

We are working on getting the divorce sorted as soon as possible. Thank you for your input.
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Hkana: 10:37pm On Jun 06, 2023
kwakudtraveller:

Congrats bro. Wash am for us . Btw what job did you get ?

Bro, I sent you a PM. Kindly reply, needing some pointers
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Dharmie02: 11:01pm On Jun 06, 2023
headofschool:
Seniors...I need a job link at Lincoln area, or any remote job link. I will appreciate your contribution and assistance (female job)



You can try Foundever for remote jobs

8 Likes 3 Shares

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by lavida001: 11:58pm On Jun 06, 2023
Progressivegee:


I don't think it will affect those who are already on the system. Like the student dependents ban, it might take effect from future applications. In my opinion, I don't think it's worth it. One primary reason many choose to migrate to the UK over other western countries is because of its easier to do so. Tightening their immigration policy may see people shifting their focus. Currently, Europe and the UK has an increasing aging population which necessitates the demand for more skilled professionals. While other countries are looking to attract the best brains, the UK is looking for ways to eat their cake and have it. Australia has added additional 2 years to post study visa making it 4 years depending on qualifications and students are allowed to bring dependents. Newzeland has introduced the healthcare assistants route. The USA is granting over stayers a new type of visa route so they can work legally in the USA. But children of immigrant parents are doing everything to stop legal and skilled migration.

It's their country, their rules. But like Brexit, they will come up again and look for who to blame for the insufficient workforce admits a declining working population.

There are talks of them rejoining EU
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by lavida001: 12:24am On Jun 07, 2023
jedisco:


This is something I keep pondering on. Many times, many second generational folks I seen especially in less diverse cities have some identity crises. They're neither here nor there, worse still, they don't have enough numbers or a distinct culture.

Even on this thread, folks using denigrating words for new Nigerian legal immigrants are almost always second generation. Yet they strive to have some 9ja connection cos they want to be seen 'connecting with their roots'

Seems their thinking was their parents belonged to some 'prime stock' of Nigerians that the the white man gave the 'privilege' of immigration. Hence they want to set their own bar for immigrants. Fact is, their parents were just everyday Nigerians e.t.c with some opportunity.

They keep asking you when are you going back?

I dont have time for 2 much talk. I simply tell them im going back after graduation.

I just dey laugh

if na so e easy why una Papa no go back naija

3 Likes

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by headofschool: 3:59am On Jun 07, 2023
Thanks
Dharmie02:




You can try Foundever for remote jobs
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by dewhaley: 7:17am On Jun 07, 2023
Adebayo82:
Please does anyone have Idea of bank that is more suitable for cryptocurrency/Binance wallet for transaction for both deposit and withdrawal. Currently, I have Monzo acount. I don't know if I need to open revolut or Loyds bank account.

I use Revolut …
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by rinzylee(m): 8:50am On Jun 07, 2023
Hello everyone.....Happy new month!!!

It has been a while.... as it started to get quite hot with arguments and fights here and there.

Anyway...like I promised, I have been able to defeat my lazy self and decided to finally pen down my experience with Egypt air to and fro Nigeria.

To start.... who gave that negative review? 🤔



Aha.... here we go. Relax and read.....

You would excuse my interlacing the story with pidgin English.... apologies.


I had a lot to settle back home in Nigeria (business deals, babe issues, NIN, parent's health).... so I wasn't exactly travelling for fun. I kept delaying getting my ticket as Money never show. I had committed some decent sum of £ to my export business and payment delayed a bit, so I was unable to buy BAor any other direct flight.

Infact, I told babe that I had cancelled my trip and apologised. Told her I would work towards July or August.

My office had booked me for a fellowship training at RSM London so I knew I was gonna be in London between 19th and 21st of May. And because I had made initial plans "based on logistics" I took 10 days of my annual leave as far back as late March.

Anyway... one day after seeing a patient, I went to Egypt Air website and checked the prices. If I remember, this was 9th of May, price was £587 2pm return (LHR to Cairo, Cairo to LOS - 20th May and LOS to Cairo, Cairo to LHR 5th June, 2023) 10:10pm take off was £608.

I barely had £200 left on me, so I took an overdraft from my bank, and booked my ticket.

I was going home!!!

My line manager had earlier approved only 10 days and was away on annual leave, so I needed someone to add 2 extra days- na there wahala start.

Good news..... my Team lead (also my direct clinical lead) visits my clinic the next day and while checking up on me, asks me how my travel plans were coming. Na so I begin tell am say, I no get money o, say cheapest ticket na im I buy and would love to have 2 extra days added. Fiam....she approved and said please go and see your family and your other half. grin


I quickly used Bluelight app and got discounted tickets with National Express to London (20% off). Used same app and bought some stuff at sports direct (15% off), entered Zara and bought perfumes on sales promotion, went to lidl,aldi, sainsbury and chattered chocolates and biscuits...... shebi dem say UK people stingy... I go prove them wrong 😂.

Perfumes were for mum, my 2 sisters, 2 sisters in-law, babe and her best friend who was instrumental in ..... taaa see aprokp people grin grin

19th by 8am I landed London and went for my training. I went to Croydon to spend the night with my cousin who had 30kg worth of load for village people grin. Na lie o... she buys stuff here and ships to naija. Making decent money o.

20th was the finalé of the training.

Things were moving fine.....

Ok...lest I forget, my cousin showed me shop in Croydon (choice stores) ....I wept. Shirts of £100 are sold for £20 or less during SALES. They also offer 10% discount for NHS staff.


Yeah...so flight was 10.10pm and by 5.30pm I set out.


Now the movie begins......

I checked in on-line the previous night and selected great seats. Went to bed happy cos I knew I was on top of my game.

I put my passport in my breast pocket and 30mins into the journey from Croydon to Heathrow, I removed it and put in the crossbag I hung over my chest..... this was the beginning of sorrows.

7.50pm I get a call from someone who had shoe to send home. Guess what?? 😭

While answering the call and trying to get my backpack off, I took the cross back off my neck and dropped on the seat, and continued with the call.

8.10pm we arrived Heathrow and I was still on the call because he was trying to locate me. This is someone I told 2 weeks to my travel and pleaded to post the shoe to me.....phew 😡

Well... I got up, put my back pack on, and walked to the luggage carrier to unmount my box (I had 3 bags - 2 x 23kg, 1 carry on and my backpack containing my work laptop and documents).


Children of God, I walked away without looking back. Unknown to me, I had left the most important document in UK as far as I was concerned behind.
Village people 1: 0 Me

I usually leave my BRP, debit cards and driver's license in my phone pouch which finally is secured in same crossbag, but while making this call, I was holding this particular phone which I eventually slid into my backpack. ...... Village people 1: 1 Me

8.20pm I got to the Egypt air check in counter at terminal 2 (Queen's Terminal), smiled to the guys and while we were talking , they asked for my passport..... I touched my breastpocket and had 100 pins go through my chest in an instant.

I just said..... oh what manner of man have I become tonight. Oh who would believe my misfortune.

I had palpitations, momentary surge of adrenaline, goosebumps and chills all at the same time.....

Then I froze... ... after 10 seconds...I could only mutter... "The bus" ....

My legs started to fail me.... I could only speak in tongues at this time. That was the only thing that could bring calm to me.

I tried to beg them to have me leave my trolley there at the counter.it fell on deaf ears. So I swung into action.... I started running while pushing my trolley. I hated technology that day. Everything became irritating, the lift, the escalators, I hated law and order that day....... alas.... I succumbed to waiting for technology to discipline me.


By the time I came out to Central bus station where I had earlier alighted, I saw the bus that brought me... X26 pulling away and driving off.... .... I froze.

Better don't miss the rapture.... I remembered the story of the 10 virgins, and felt what the 5 foolish ones felt..... they were all asleep, but they had no oil. They were caught in that 1 moment they let their guards down..... Please don't be caught unprepared...


Sadly, London buses are not like national express or other coaches that have longer loading times, these ones no get joy.

By this time I had just 30mins left for boarding to close..... the deed was done. The nearest stop was 18mins away. There was no magic to getting that bus to stop...No one had the bus driver's number. Oh I forgot, everyone is in a hurry in London.

After 10mins of staring and gazing at no one and nothing in particular, I pushed my trolley up again back to Egypt Air counter.


Oh lest I forget..... I was making a surprise video for babe. I was talking about how I have pulled a fast one on her and how against all odds, I was finally gonna see her. Village people had other plans......

Half time score

Village people 2 : 1 Me


When I got to the counter, the guy suggested deboarding and removing me from the flight against appearing as "No Show"... I consented and that was done. I was directed to the ticket kiosk to see what it would take to reschedule.

The man I saw there said it was £208 to reschedule for the next day Sunday 21st May, 2023.

But there was a problem......... what was the guarantee that my passport would be found before 10.10pm Sunday night.

It was a mix of emotions for me at this point .... Money invested, promises made, surprises planned, stress from work, Joy of travelling home almost being short-circuited, anger at myself, anger at the guy who called me at that time, and many more.

I said .... Ok.... I'd be back tomorrow, please reschedule me.


His response : I can only hold it for 30mins, because you will have to pay to make it valid. After 30mins, a new rate will apply.

I just nodded and rolled my trolley away.


When I got to the lobby, I kept looking out for every X26 bus that would pull up.... after the subsequent 3 , I was advised to go home. Time now was 11.30pm.


I got the number and email address of TFL lost item department and lodged a complaint. The phone number would never connect incidentally.


Full time score:

Village people 3: 1 Me.


It was a cold night and the ride home was a solemn one. My headsets broke before I travelled, I got an earpod for babe, it took a lot of resistance and thoughtfulness not to open the box and make it mine.


Got home, my cousin served me food , I ate , laughed and bantered myself, we all laughed and praised God.... What if there was a reason

Well..... Good thing.... my cousin was in with me on the surprises planned.. My parents didn't know I was coming, my siblings didn't know either except my immediate elder and younger brothers.

I had a good warm bath, laid me down, and forced some sleep.


Sunday 21st May, 2023.

6am till 10am ....... online service because yours truly was so tired to attend a physical service.

10.30am , I set out to the closest TFL garage at Croydon, it was a 45min trip to Beddington Lane, Croydon.

First office redirected me to the next compound... I saw many buses and few human beings. Village people started whispering....today is Sunday, no one will be around. Better go home o. I said... no way. I will push to the end.

Second office... met a Nigerian who directed me to a white man. I made my reason for coming known and I was asked to describe what was in the bag.

A toothbrush
A toothpaste
1 hair comb
1 Nigerian international passport
1 key holder


First 3 black bags.... not anywhere near mine.

My heart stopped for 2 secs.... i started thinking of what I would go through with Nigerian High Commission especially after reading stories of disappointments here.

Kai. ...... Lord show me mercy! Just do something dear Lord, this was all I kept muttering while keeping a smiling face.


Then suddenly , he said...oh wait... there's another bag here.... let's check it and like God did in Genesis 1, Light came forth from darkness... there lay all my mentioned possessions. I just kept saying thank you. He said... you alright mate? You can go.


The Nigerian man sh lipsrsealed lipsrsealed..... started asking me to dash him something nah. I was too happy to respond to him. Baba kept me extra 5 mins , and after seeing I was not interested in his business, started preaching against Village people grin grin grin.

Return leg :

First half

Me 2 : 0 Village people grin grin grin grin


Bag in hand , I ran to the tram and headed home..... but not without playing a prank on my cousin and her husband.

They called while I was on my way home....and I answered with a sad tone[b]. "Please can I explain when I come back?" No way forward for now.[/b] grin. Of course, IT IS WELL was the response 😂 😂


Got home and got them laughing after realising I pranked them.

Cousin asked the Almighty question...." still travelling

I replied.... I am leaving for the airport right now....I had my bath, ate and this time , my cousin's husband joined me. I sat on the same seat as yesterday again 😂 grin..... i no dey hear word.... but I needed to pepper Village people too grin grin grin


Got to the counter again and was redirected to the ticket kiosk. We were 2 hrs early and Oga was on break. Finally , he came around and opened his window.

Introductions done and purpose of visit explained.

Oga pressed calculator and gave me the painful news....price to reschedule was now £292.80. The thing pinch my chest. I pleaded for a discount and explained what happened yesterday, which fell on deaf ears again.

Village people started singing and dancing and praising their ancestors, but they didn't know, that I serve a living God.

I paid the £292 and released my in-law to go home.

I proceeded to boarding and checked in my bags.


When I got to the depature lounge after immigration checks, it then occurred to me how tired and stressed my body was from these 2 days. Every joint and muscle was aching.

I sat down, brought out my work laptop and completed some tasks I carried over from Thursday. Sent outstanding emails and logged off NHS until further notice. Infact I assigned a task to my colleague and shut down before she could say pim. I needed to go off anything that had to do with sick people at this moment.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, opened them and kept staring at the screen until my boarding gate was announced.

I took tired steps towards the booth, each thud sounded like £292 😩 😢

Thankfully the check-in guys were nice and gave me an aisle seat. 😊

When I got into the plane and sat down, I closed my eyes and muttered "Thank you Jesus".

Full time score

Me 6 : 3 Village people

I won.


I had just 1 neighbour, the middle seat was vacant. I had a great leg room. In-flight entertainment was not bad at all.

I made sure I utilized that £292 I paid as penalty ... I ordered for water and coffee like 20 times. I took my earphones home and I left nothing uneaten, whether tasty or not. Whenever I remember my £292 again, I order water and coffe again 😢.

We took off at exactly 10:10pm

By 4.04am we landed Cairo International Airport..... I wept for Nigeria...... we went off to the waiting lounge for connecting flights and time when we got settled was 5am or so. I think Egypt was 2hrs ahead , so it was around 6 or 7am now. I was a bit confused , so I just kept my eyes and ears open..... I heard Village people are intercontinental too. So I kept my whole armour on, we were winning this battle!!!!


I met a couple of Nigerians and instantly the politicians in me kicked in and we had amazing discussions about Nigeria. A few of them were doctors, we talked about the medical practice in UK compared to Australia, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Everyone spoke about how it was in their base. ..... E be like say person go dey consider Australia o 🤔 🤔....


Boarding announced and we muuueeevvved.......


The Egyptian immigration officers no dey smile o.
They kept frisking me like I carry person kidney or I be Amoda pikin 😉.....


Kai...Nigerians no get rep for these Arabian nations o... they just dey talk to us anyhow. .... it is well o.


This second plane from Cairo to Naija was smaller. There wasn't as much leg room like the One from London and it was full to the brim.

Please what are Nigerians doing in Egypt...? 🤔 😕


Work dey? shocked

9.05am we took off........I had a brit and Libyan as seat neighbours and we talked business.....

Anyway..... as usual...I chop all the food. My neighbour want throway him cake, I collect am chop, I drank water like 292 times cheesy grin grin, I took all the headphones o... ah I must recover my money o. I go open shop for berger or oshodi with branch at Peckham 😂 😁.....

Oh i forgot ... they served us twice...

Cake and juice 20mins into the flight

Main meal after 1.30hrs into the flight


They were friendly hosts and hostesses I must say.



1.17pm Nigerian time we landed MMIA......

Lagos arrivals is like a toilet.

God forbid BAT thing again.....Tụfịakwa 🤮

I was embarrassed for my country... let's leave this story for another day.




....let me close this curtain here... when I get ginger , I'd write about my return trip. I would have loved to write about my stay in Naija, but it would reveal so much.


Return trip was beautiful....I think I fell in love a bit with Egypt air....


Good morning!!!!

38 Likes 1 Share

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by igbsam(m): 8:54am On Jun 07, 2023
Good morning everyone
Pls i need a sure and affordable plug that can ship dried kpomo from Lagos to Manchester. Your recommendation will be highly appreciated.
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by AgentXxx(m): 11:06am On Jun 07, 2023
Well done bros, You have got great writing skills.
rinzylee:
Hello everyone.....Happy new month!!!

It has been a while.... as it started to get quite hot with arguments and fights here and there.

Anyway...like I promised, I have been able to defeat my lazy self and decided to finally pen down my experience with Egypt air to and fro Nigeria.

To start.... who gave that negative review? 🤔



Aha.... here we go. Relax and read.....

You would excuse my interlacing the story with pidgin English.... apologies.


I had a lot to settle back home in Nigeria (business deals, babe issues, NIN, parent's health).... so I wasn't exactly travelling for fun. I kept delaying getting my ticket as Money never show. I had committed some decent sum of £ to my export business and payment delayed a bit, so I was unable to buy BAor any other direct flight.

Infact, I told babe that I had cancelled my trip and apologised. Told her I would work towards July or August.

My office had booked me for a fellowship training at RSM London so I knew I was gonna be in London between 19th and 21st of May. And because I had made initial plans "based on logistics" I took 10 days of my annual leave as far back as late March.

Anyway... one day after seeing a patient, I went to Egypt Air website and checked the prices. If I remember, this was 9th of May, price was £587 2pm return (LHR to Cairo, Cairo to LOS - 20th May and LOS to Cairo, Cairo to LHR 5th June, 2023) 10:10pm take off was £608.

I barely had £200 left on me, so I took an overdraft from my bank, and booked my ticket.

I was going home!!!

My line manager had earlier approved only 10 days and was away on annual leave, so I needed someone to add 2 extra days- na there wahala start.

Good news..... my Team lead (also my direct clinical lead) visits my clinic the next day and while checking up on me, asks me how my travel plans were coming. Na so I begin tell am say, I no get money o, say cheapest ticket na im I buy and would love to have 2 extra days added. Fiam....she approved and said please go and see your family and your other half. grin


I quickly used Bluelight app and got discounted tickets with National Express to London (20% off). Used same app and bought some stuff at sports direct (15% off), entered Zara and bought perfumes on sales promotion, went to lidl,aldi, sainsbury and chattered chocolates and biscuits...... shebi dem say UK people stingy... I go prove them wrong 😂.

Perfumes were for mum, my 2 sisters, 2 sisters in-law, babe and her best friend who was instrumental in ..... taaa see aprokp people grin grin

19th by 8am I landed London and went for my training. I went to Croydon to spend the night with my cousin who had 30kg worth of load for village people grin. Na lie o... she buys stuff here and ships to naija. Making decent money o.

20th was the finalé of the training.

Things were moving fine.....

Ok...lest I forget, my cousin showed me shop in Croydon (choice stores) ....I wept. Shirts of £100 are sold for £20 or less during SALES. They also offer 10% discount for NHS staff.


Yeah...so flight was 10.10pm and by 5.30pm I set out.


Now the movie begins......

I checked in on-line the previous night and selected great seats. Went to bed happy cos I knew I was on top of my game.

I put my passport in my breast pocket and 30mins into the journey from Croydon to Heathrow, I removed it and put in the crossbag I hung over my chest..... this was the beginning of sorrows.

7.50pm I get a call from someone who had shoe to send home. Guess what?? 😭

While answering the call and trying to get my backpack off, I took the cross back off my neck and dropped on the seat, and continued with the call.

8.10pm we arrived Heathrow and I was still on the call because he was trying to locate me. This is someone I told 2 weeks to my travel and pleaded to post the shoe to me.....phew 😡

Well... I got up, put my back pack on, and walked to the luggage carrier to unmount my box (I had 3 bags - 2 x 23kg, 1 carry on and my backpack containing my work laptop and documents).


Children of God, I walked away without looking back. Unknown to me, I had left the most important document in UK as far as I was concerned behind.
Village people 1: 0 Me

I usually leave my BRP, debit cards and driver's license in my phone pouch which finally is secured in same crossbag, but while making this call, I was holding this particular phone which I eventually slid into my backpack. ...... Village people 1: 1 Me

8.20pm I got to the Egypt air check in counter at terminal 2 (Queen's Terminal), smiled to the guys and while we were talking , they asked for my passport..... I touched my breastpocket and had 100 pins go through my chest in an instant.

I just said..... oh what manner of man have I become tonight. Oh who would believe my misfortune.

I had palpitations, momentary surge of adrenaline, goosebumps and chills all at the same time.....

Then I froze... ... after 10 seconds...I could only mutter... "The bus" ....

My legs started to fail me.... I could only speak in tongues at this time. That was the only thing that could bring calm to me.

I tried to beg them to have me leave my trolley there at the counter.it fell on deaf ears. So I swung into action.... I started running while pushing my trolley. I hated technology that day. Everything became irritating, the lift, the escalators, I hated law and order that day....... alas.... I succumbed to waiting for technology to discipline me.


By the time I came out to Central bus station where I had earlier alighted, I saw the bus that brought me... X26 pulling away and driving off.... .... I froze.

Better don't miss the rapture.... I remembered the story of the 10 virgins, and felt what the 5 foolish ones felt..... they were all asleep, but they had no oil. They were caught in that 1 moment they let their guards down..... Please don't be caught unprepared...


Sadly, London buses are not like national express or other coaches that have longer loading times, these ones no get joy.

By this time I had just 30mins left for boarding to close..... the deed was done. The nearest stop was 18mins away. There was no magic to getting that bus to stop...No one had the bus driver's number. Oh I forgot, everyone is in a hurry in London.

After 10mins of staring and gazing at no one and nothing in particular, I pushed my trolley up again back to Egypt Air counter.


Oh lest I forget..... I was making a surprise video for babe. I was talking about how I have pulled a fast one on her and how against all odds, I was finally gonna see her. Village people had other plans......

Half time score

Village people 2 : 1 Me


When I got to the counter, the guy suggested deboarding and removing me from the flight against appearing as "No Show"... I consented and that was done. I was directed to the ticket kiosk to see what it would take to reschedule.

The man I saw there said it was £208 to reschedule for the next day Sunday 21st May, 2023.

But there was a problem......... what was the guarantee that my passport would be found before 10.10pm Sunday night.

It was a mix of emotions for me at this point .... Money invested, promises made, surprises planned, stress from work, Joy of travelling home almost being short-circuited, anger at myself, anger at the guy who called me at that time, and many more.

I said .... Ok.... I'd be back tomorrow, please reschedule me.


His response : I can only hold it for 30mins, because you will have to pay to make it valid. After 30mins, a new rate will apply.

I just nodded and rolled my trolley away.


When I got to the lobby, I kept looking out for every X26 bus that would pull up.... after the subsequent 3 , I was advised to go home. Time now was 11.30pm.


I got the number and email address of TFL lost item department and lodged a complaint. The phone number would never connect incidentally.


Full time score:

Village people 3: 1 Me.


It was a cold night and the ride home was a solemn one. My headsets broke before I travelled, I got an earpod for babe, it took a lot of resistance and thoughtfulness not to open the box and make it mine.


Got home, my cousin served me food , I ate , laughed and bantered myself, we all laughed and praised God.... What if there was a reason

Well..... Good thing.... my cousin was in with me on the surprises planned.. My parents didn't know I was coming, my siblings didn't know either except my immediate elder and younger brothers.

I had a good warm bath, laid me down, and forced some sleep.


Sunday 21st May, 2023.

6am till 10am ....... online service because yours truly was so tired to attend a physical service.

10.30am , I set out to the closest TFL garage at Croydon, it was a 45min trip to Beddington Lane, Croydon.

First office redirected me to the next compound... I saw many buses and few human beings. Village people started whispering....today is Sunday, no one will be around. Better go home o. I said... no way. I will push to the end.

Second office... met a Nigerian who directed me to a white man. I made my reason for coming known and I was asked to describe what was in the bag.

A toothbrush
A toothpaste
1 hair comb
1 Nigerian international passport
1 key holder


First 3 black bags.... not anywhere near mine.

My heart stopped for 2 secs.... i started thinking of what I would go through with Nigerian High Commission especially after reading stories of disappointments here.

Kai. ...... Lord show me mercy! Just do something dear Lord, this was all I kept muttering while keeping a smiling face.


Then suddenly , he said...oh wait... there's another bag here.... let's check it and like God did in Genesis 1, Light came forth from darkness... there lay all my mentioned possessions. I just kept saying thank you. He said... you alright mate? You can go.


The Nigerian man sh lipsrsealed lipsrsealed..... started asking me to dash him something nah. I was too happy to respond to him. Baba kept me extra 5 mins , and after seeing I was not interested in his business, started preaching against Village people grin grin grin.

Return leg :

First half

Me 2 : 0 Village people grin grin grin grin


Bag in hand , I ran to the tram and headed home..... but not without playing a prank on my cousin and her husband.

They called while I was on my way home....and I answered with a sad tone[b]. "Please can I explain when I come back?" No way forward for now.[/b] grin. Of course, IT IS WELL was the response 😂 😂


Got home and got them laughing after realising I pranked them.

Cousin asked the Almighty question...." still travelling

I replied.... I am leaving for the airport right now....I had my bath, ate and this time , my cousin's husband joined me. I sat on the same seat as yesterday again 😂 grin..... i no dey hear word.... but I needed to pepper Village people too grin grin grin


Got to the counter again and was redirected to the ticket kiosk. We were 2 hrs early and Oga was on break. Finally , he came around and opened his window.

Introductions done and purpose of visit explained.

Oga pressed calculator and gave me the painful news....price to reschedule was now £292.80. The thing pinch my chest. I pleaded for a discount and explained what happened yesterday, which fell on deaf ears again.

Village people started singing and dancing and praising their ancestors, but they didn't know, that I serve a living God.

I paid the £292 and released my in-law to go home.

I proceeded to boarding and checked in my bags.


When I got to the depature lounge after immigration checks, it then occurred to me how tired and stressed my body was from these 2 days. Every joint and muscle was aching.

I sat down, brought out my work laptop and completed some tasks I carried over from Thursday. Sent outstanding emails and logged off NHS until further notice. Infact I assigned a task to my colleague and shut down before she could say pim. I needed to go off anything that had to do with sick people at this moment.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, opened them and kept staring at the screen until my boarding gate was announced.

I took tired steps towards the booth, each thud sounded like £292 😩 😢

Thankfully the check-in guys were nice and gave me an aisle seat. 😊

When I got into the plane and sat down, I closed my eyes and muttered "Thank you Jesus".

Full time score

Me 6 : 3 Village people

I won.


I had just 1 neighbour, the middle seat was vacant. I had a great leg room. In-flight entertainment was not bad at all.

I made sure I utilized that £292 I paid as penalty ... I ordered for water and coffee like 20 times. I took my earphones home and I left nothing uneaten, whether tasty or not. Whenever I remember my £292 again, I order water and coffe again 😢.

We took off at exactly 10:10pm

By 4.04am we landed Cairo International Airport..... I wept for Nigeria...... we went off to the waiting lounge for connecting flights and time when we got settled was 5am or so. I think Egypt was 2hrs ahead , so it was around 6 or 7am now. I was a bit confused , so I just kept my eyes and ears open..... I heard Village people are intercontinental too. So I kept my whole armour on, we were winning this battle!!!!


I met a couple of Nigerians and instantly the politicians in me kicked in and we had amazing discussions about Nigeria. A few of them were doctors, we talked about the medical practice in UK compared to Australia, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Everyone spoke about how it was in their base. ..... E be like say person go dey consider Australia o 🤔 🤔....


Boarding announced and we muuueeevvved.......


The Egyptian immigration officers no dey smile o.
They kept frisking me like I carry person kidney or I be Amoda pikin 😉.....


Kai...Nigerians no get rep for these Arabian nations o... they just dey talk to us anyhow. .... it is well o.


This second plane from Cairo to Naija was smaller. There wasn't as much leg room like the One from London and it was full to the brim.

Please what are Nigerians doing in Egypt...? 🤔 😕


Work dey? shocked

9.05am we took off........I had a brit and Libyan as seat neighbours and we talked business.....

Anyway..... as usual...I chop all the food. My neighbour want throway him cake, I collect am chop, I drank water like 292 times cheesy grin grin, I took all the headphones o... ah I must recover my money o. I go open shop for berger or oshodi with branch at Peckham 😂 😁.....

Oh i forgot ... they served us twice...

Cake and juice 20mins into the flight

Main meal after 1.30hrs into the flight


They were friendly hosts and hostesses I must say.



1.17pm Nigerian time we landed MMIA......

Lagos arrivals is like a toilet.

God forbid BAT thing again.....Tụfịakwa 🤮

I was embarrassed for my country... let's leave this story for another day.




....let me close this curtain here... when I get ginger , I'd write about my return trip. I would have loved to write about my stay in Naija, but it would reveal so much.


Return trip was beautiful....I think I fell in love a bit with Egypt air....


Good morning!!!!

1 Like

Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by Santa2: 11:10am On Jun 07, 2023
rinzylee:
Hello everyone.....Happy new month!!!

It has been a while.... as it started to get quite hot with arguments and fights here and there.

Anyway...like I promised, I have been able to defeat my lazy self and decided to finally pen down my experience with Egypt air to and fro Nigeria.

To start.... who gave that negative review? 🤔



Aha.... here we go. Relax and read.....

You would excuse my interlacing the story with pidgin English.... apologies.


I had a lot to settle back home in Nigeria (business deals, babe issues, NIN, parent's health).... so I wasn't exactly travelling for fun. I kept delaying getting my ticket as Money never show. I had committed some decent sum of £ to my export business and payment delayed a bit, so I was unable to buy BAor any other direct flight.

Infact, I told babe that I had cancelled my trip and apologised. Told her I would work towards July or August.

My office had booked me for a fellowship training at RSM London so I knew I was gonna be in London between 19th and 21st of May. And because I had made initial plans "based on logistics" I took 10 days of my annual leave as far back as late March.

Anyway... one day after seeing a patient, I went to Egypt Air website and checked the prices. If I remember, this was 9th of May, price was £587 2pm return (LHR to Cairo, Cairo to LOS - 20th May and LOS to Cairo, Cairo to LHR 5th June, 2023) 10:10pm take off was £608.

I barely had £200 left on me, so I took an overdraft from my bank, and booked my ticket.

I was going home!!!

My line manager had earlier approved only 10 days and was away on annual leave, so I needed someone to add 2 extra days- na there wahala start.

Good news..... my Team lead (also my direct clinical lead) visits my clinic the next day and while checking up on me, asks me how my travel plans were coming. Na so I begin tell am say, I no get money o, say cheapest ticket na im I buy and would love to have 2 extra days added. Fiam....she approved and said please go and see your family and your other half. grin


I quickly used Bluelight app and got discounted tickets with National Express to London (20% off). Used same app and bought some stuff at sports direct (15% off), entered Zara and bought perfumes on sales promotion, went to lidl,aldi, sainsbury and chattered chocolates and biscuits...... shebi dem say UK people stingy... I go prove them wrong 😂.

Perfumes were for mum, my 2 sisters, 2 sisters in-law, babe and her best friend who was instrumental in ..... taaa see aprokp people grin grin

19th by 8am I landed London and went for my training. I went to Croydon to spend the night with my cousin who had 30kg worth of load for village people grin. Na lie o... she buys stuff here and ships to naija. Making decent money o.

20th was the finalé of the training.

Things were moving fine.....

Ok...lest I forget, my cousin showed me shop in Croydon (choice stores) ....I wept. Shirts of £100 are sold for £20 or less during SALES. They also offer 10% discount for NHS staff.


Yeah...so flight was 10.10pm and by 5.30pm I set out.


Now the movie begins......

I checked in on-line the previous night and selected great seats. Went to bed happy cos I knew I was on top of my game.

I put my passport in my breast pocket and 30mins into the journey from Croydon to Heathrow, I removed it and put in the crossbag I hung over my chest..... this was the beginning of sorrows.

7.50pm I get a call from someone who had shoe to send home. Guess what?? 😭

While answering the call and trying to get my backpack off, I took the cross back off my neck and dropped on the seat, and continued with the call.

8.10pm we arrived Heathrow and I was still on the call because he was trying to locate me. This is someone I told 2 weeks to my travel and pleaded to post the shoe to me.....phew 😡

Well... I got up, put my back pack on, and walked to the luggage carrier to unmount my box (I had 3 bags - 2 x 23kg, 1 carry on and my backpack containing my work laptop and documents).


Children of God, I walked away without looking back. Unknown to me, I had left the most important document in UK as far as I was concerned behind.
Village people 1: 0 Me

I usually leave my BRP, debit cards and driver's license in my phone pouch which finally is secured in same crossbag, but while making this call, I was holding this particular phone which I eventually slid into my backpack. ...... Village people 1: 1 Me

8.20pm I got to the Egypt air check in counter at terminal 2 (Queen's Terminal), smiled to the guys and while we were talking , they asked for my passport..... I touched my breastpocket and had 100 pins go through my chest in an instant.

I just said..... oh what manner of man have I become tonight. Oh who would believe my misfortune.

I had palpitations, momentary surge of adrenaline, goosebumps and chills all at the same time.....

Then I froze... ... after 10 seconds...I could only mutter... "The bus" ....

My legs started to fail me.... I could only speak in tongues at this time. That was the only thing that could bring calm to me.

I tried to beg them to have me leave my trolley there at the counter.it fell on deaf ears. So I swung into action.... I started running while pushing my trolley. I hated technology that day. Everything became irritating, the lift, the escalators, I hated law and order that day....... alas.... I succumbed to waiting for technology to discipline me.


By the time I came out to Central bus station where I had earlier alighted, I saw the bus that brought me... X26 pulling away and driving off.... .... I froze.

Better don't miss the rapture.... I remembered the story of the 10 virgins, and felt what the 5 foolish ones felt..... they were all asleep, but they had no oil. They were caught in that 1 moment they let their guards down..... Please don't be caught unprepared...


Sadly, London buses are not like national express or other coaches that have longer loading times, these ones no get joy.

By this time I had just 30mins left for boarding to close..... the deed was done. The nearest stop was 18mins away. There was no magic to getting that bus to stop...No one had the bus driver's number. Oh I forgot, everyone is in a hurry in London.

After 10mins of staring and gazing at no one and nothing in particular, I pushed my trolley up again back to Egypt Air counter.


Oh lest I forget..... I was making a surprise video for babe. I was talking about how I have pulled a fast one on her and how against all odds, I was finally gonna see her. Village people had other plans......

Half time score

Village people 2 : 1 Me


When I got to the counter, the guy suggested deboarding and removing me from the flight against appearing as "No Show"... I consented and that was done. I was directed to the ticket kiosk to see what it would take to reschedule.

The man I saw there said it was £208 to reschedule for the next day Sunday 21st May, 2023.

But there was a problem......... what was the guarantee that my passport would be found before 10.10pm Sunday night.

It was a mix of emotions for me at this point .... Money invested, promises made, surprises planned, stress from work, Joy of travelling home almost being short-circuited, anger at myself, anger at the guy who called me at that time, and many more.

I said .... Ok.... I'd be back tomorrow, please reschedule me.


His response : I can only hold it for 30mins, because you will have to pay to make it valid. After 30mins, a new rate will apply.

I just nodded and rolled my trolley away.


When I got to the lobby, I kept looking out for every X26 bus that would pull up.... after the subsequent 3 , I was advised to go home. Time now was 11.30pm.


I got the number and email address of TFL lost item department and lodged a complaint. The phone number would never connect incidentally.


Full time score:

Village people 3: 1 Me.


It was a cold night and the ride home was a solemn one. My headsets broke before I travelled, I got an earpod for babe, it took a lot of resistance and thoughtfulness not to open the box and make it mine.


Got home, my cousin served me food , I ate , laughed and bantered myself, we all laughed and praised God.... What if there was a reason

Well..... Good thing.... my cousin was in with me on the surprises planned.. My parents didn't know I was coming, my siblings didn't know either except my immediate elder and younger brothers.

I had a good warm bath, laid me down, and forced some sleep.


Sunday 21st May, 2023.

6am till 10am ....... online service because yours truly was so tired to attend a physical service.

10.30am , I set out to the closest TFL garage at Croydon, it was a 45min trip to Beddington Lane, Croydon.

First office redirected me to the next compound... I saw many buses and few human beings. Village people started whispering....today is Sunday, no one will be around. Better go home o. I said... no way. I will push to the end.

Second office... met a Nigerian who directed me to a white man. I made my reason for coming known and I was asked to describe what was in the bag.

A toothbrush
A toothpaste
1 hair comb
1 Nigerian international passport
1 key holder


First 3 black bags.... not anywhere near mine.

My heart stopped for 2 secs.... i started thinking of what I would go through with Nigerian High Commission especially after reading stories of disappointments here.

Kai. ...... Lord show me mercy! Just do something dear Lord, this was all I kept muttering while keeping a smiling face.


Then suddenly , he said...oh wait... there's another bag here.... let's check it and like God did in Genesis 1, Light came forth from darkness... there lay all my mentioned possessions. I just kept saying thank you. He said... you alright mate? You can go.


The Nigerian man sh lipsrsealed lipsrsealed..... started asking me to dash him something nah. I was too happy to respond to him. Baba kept me extra 5 mins , and after seeing I was not interested in his business, started preaching against Village people grin grin grin.

Return leg :

First half

Me 2 : 0 Village people grin grin grin grin


Bag in hand , I ran to the tram and headed home..... but not without playing a prank on my cousin and her husband.

They called while I was on my way home....and I answered with a sad tone[b]. "Please can I explain when I come back?" No way forward for now.[/b] grin. Of course, IT IS WELL was the response 😂 😂


Got home and got them laughing after realising I pranked them.

Cousin asked the Almighty question...." still travelling

I replied.... I am leaving for the airport right now....I had my bath, ate and this time , my cousin's husband joined me. I sat on the same seat as yesterday again 😂 grin..... i no dey hear word.... but I needed to pepper Village people too grin grin grin


Got to the counter again and was redirected to the ticket kiosk. We were 2 hrs early and Oga was on break. Finally , he came around and opened his window.

Introductions done and purpose of visit explained.

Oga pressed calculator and gave me the painful news....price to reschedule was now £292.80. The thing pinch my chest. I pleaded for a discount and explained what happened yesterday, which fell on deaf ears again.

Village people started singing and dancing and praising their ancestors, but they didn't know, that I serve a living God.

I paid the £292 and released my in-law to go home.

I proceeded to boarding and checked in my bags.


When I got to the depature lounge after immigration checks, it then occurred to me how tired and stressed my body was from these 2 days. Every joint and muscle was aching.

I sat down, brought out my work laptop and completed some tasks I carried over from Thursday. Sent outstanding emails and logged off NHS until further notice. Infact I assigned a task to my colleague and shut down before she could say pim. I needed to go off anything that had to do with sick people at this moment.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, opened them and kept staring at the screen until my boarding gate was announced.

I took tired steps towards the booth, each thud sounded like £292 😩 😢

Thankfully the check-in guys were nice and gave me an aisle seat. 😊

When I got into the plane and sat down, I closed my eyes and muttered "Thank you Jesus".

Full time score

Me 6 : 3 Village people

I won.


I had just 1 neighbour, the middle seat was vacant. I had a great leg room. In-flight entertainment was not bad at all.

I made sure I utilized that £292 I paid as penalty ... I ordered for water and coffee like 20 times. I took my earphones home and I left nothing uneaten, whether tasty or not. Whenever I remember my £292 again, I order water and coffe again 😢.

We took off at exactly 10:10pm

By 4.04am we landed Cairo International Airport..... I wept for Nigeria...... we went off to the waiting lounge for connecting flights and time when we got settled was 5am or so. I think Egypt was 2hrs ahead , so it was around 6 or 7am now. I was a bit confused , so I just kept my eyes and ears open..... I heard Village people are intercontinental too. So I kept my whole armour on, we were winning this battle!!!!


I met a couple of Nigerians and instantly the politicians in me kicked in and we had amazing discussions about Nigeria. A few of them were doctors, we talked about the medical practice in UK compared to Australia, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Everyone spoke about how it was in their base. ..... E be like say person go dey consider Australia o 🤔 🤔....


Boarding announced and we muuueeevvved.......


The Egyptian immigration officers no dey smile o.
They kept frisking me like I carry person kidney or I be Amoda pikin 😉.....


Kai...Nigerians no get rep for these Arabian nations o... they just dey talk to us anyhow. .... it is well o.


This second plane from Cairo to Naija was smaller. There wasn't as much leg room like the One from London and it was full to the brim.

Please what are Nigerians doing in Egypt...? 🤔 😕


Work dey? shocked

9.05am we took off........I had a brit and Libyan as seat neighbours and we talked business.....

Anyway..... as usual...I chop all the food. My neighbour want throway him cake, I collect am chop, I drank water like 292 times cheesy grin grin, I took all the headphones o... ah I must recover my money o. I go open shop for berger or oshodi with branch at Peckham 😂 😁.....

Oh i forgot ... they served us twice...

Cake and juice 20mins into the flight

Main meal after 1.30hrs into the flight


They were friendly hosts and hostesses I must say.



1.17pm Nigerian time we landed MMIA......

Lagos arrivals is like a toilet.

God forbid BAT thing again.....Tụfịakwa 🤮

I was embarrassed for my country... let's leave this story for another day.




....let me close this curtain here... when I get ginger , I'd write about my return trip. I would have loved to write about my stay in Naija, but it would reveal so much.


Return trip was beautiful....I think I fell in love a bit with Egypt air....


Good morning!!!!

It was a long and fun read

I like your writing style
Re: Living In The Uk-life Of An Immigrant (part 3) by deybholar(f): 11:12am On Jun 07, 2023
Hello everyone, does anyone know if one can switch visas with a passport that has 4 months validity. Is there a need to apply for passport renewal? Thanks

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Italian Student Visa-help! / General U.s.a (student) Visa Enquiries-part4 / U.S Visit: Port Of Entry Interview/stories.

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