Friday, September 12 | 2025
Wemi swapped Nigeria for Sweden in 2014. She has a background in Engineering and is soon to start a graduate program. She is currently living in Umeå with her husband. The reason that got them both here was that Wemis husband had gotten a doctoral position at Umeå University. Since the doctoral was estimated to take about four years and they were newly wed they decided to take on this journey together. Moving to Sweden from Nigeria was the hardest in winter time.
What has been the hardest to adjust moving to Sweden from Nigeria?
The dark winter and the cold weather of course. I come from a country with a temperature range of 25 to 28 degrees. I moved here in the middle of winter and at that time, the temperature range was around -10 to -5 degrees, I cried for the whole month but it’s amazing how that same -10 degrees is normal to me now.
What has been the biggest obstacle so far?
The language barrier.
What do you like about Sweden and Swedes?
Sweden is a very calm society with good infrastructure. The Swedes are very punctual and they seem to love outdoor an activity like jogging, hiking, running and lot more.
Do you have a favourite Swedish word?
Lagom (I love the word so much because my best interpretation for it is “There is virtue in moderation”)
Anything you find puzzling about Swedes or the Swedish way of life?
Swedes are generally reserved and quiet, which can make it hard for newcomers to tell whether they’re open to a conversation or just prefer to be left alone. Taking “fika” (a coffee break with pastries) is also a unique cultural habit I found a bit strange at first. Another thing I noticed is how common it is for couples to live together as “sambos” – marriage doesn’t seem to carry the same weight here as it does in some other cultures.
What do you miss the most after moving to Sweden from Nigeria?
There are so many things I miss after moving to Sweden from Nigeria – especially attending “owambes” (vibrant parties and gatherings with friends and family, full of music, food, and colorful attire). I also deeply miss Nigerian food, with its rich flavors and variety.
If you could give a Newbie moving to Sweden one piece of advice, what would it be?
When moving to a new country or society, be ready to adapt to their culture and system. Don’t expect everything to always be your way or what you are used to, be open-minded and make as many friends as you can.
Is there an anecdote or strategy that helped you during your first time in Sweden?
I don’t think it’s funny, but Google maps wasn’t my best friend before I came to Sweden but on several occasions, I have lost my way around and ended up being late or going back home. I had to learn that so fast and that really helped me to know my way around better.
