Expert Info
on 6 Dec 2012
Hi all,
I'm a complete newcomer to all this, so please be a little patient if mess anything up!! And any advice is welcome!!
Right then, I'm 23 and have been offered a job working in Nigria in Port Harcourt. The working pattern for me will be three months there, and three weeks home. I will be living on my own (where, I haven't been told yet). I haven't signed anything yet. All I'm after at the minute is advice on anything that you could recommend,
i.e.
vehicle type/condition (I will get one provided but is it worth blending in with something oldish or having a heavy duty 4x4),
ideal places to live, such as recomended areas, neighbourhoods and such. (I will also be provided with a flat apparently, the details of which I have to discuss)
where to bank, local to Nigeria and foreign. Things like the safest, possibly online.
security, will I need anything in particular.
Places to shop, like supermarket chains, places not to go
VISAs, I haven't got a clue, but apparently it's been provided.
I know there's a lot I've missed. I've also had a quick look at meeting (local) people, respecting elders etc wich seems pretty clear, and other bits and bobs
I know I need all the injections which apparently take a month, and to keep off the streets after dark/10pm or avoid all travel unless necessary but if there are any points you would like to stress, I'm all ears!
Thanks in advance!!!
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You will probably find that there are a lot of expats living in Port Harcourt as there are a lot of multinational petroleum firms. So hopefully you'll find it easy to settle in.
If your employer is dealing with the processing of your visa there shouldn't be too much for you to worry about as they will advise you on the documents you need to provide. However, if you need some reassurance check out the Expat Arrival's page on Visas for Nigeria.
I would also recommend you take a look at the Cost of Living in Nigeria page, as it is always useful for expats to get an idea of what expenses they are likely to incur before agreeing on an employment package.
Your already seem to be aware of certain cultural issues and safety concerns foe expats but the Safety in Nigeria and Culture Shock in Nigeria will provide you with a good overview and some useful tips to help new expats.
I hope this information is a useful starting point for you. Do let us know if you have more questions.
Good luck with the move to Nigeria.