“I Regret Leaving Nigeria” – Dotman Opens Up on Silent Struggles Abroad
Nigerian singer and rapper Oladotun Alade, popularly known as Dotman, has shared a deeply emotional revelation about the unseen hardships he’s been facing since relocating to the United States.
The Star Life crooner took to Instagram to express his regret over leaving Nigeria, confessing that while many believe moving abroad is the ultimate dream, his experience has been far from perfect — in fact, it’s been lonely, difficult, and emotionally draining.
“Today, I regret ever deciding to leave Nigeria and move to the US.
I have been struggling so much in silence.
I haven’t seen my kids for about two years now,” he wrote.
🌍 The Reality Behind the Glamour of ‘Japa’
Dotman’s post has sparked important conversations around the “Japa” trend — the mass migration of Nigerians abroad in search of better opportunities.
While many view relocation as a ticket to greener pastures, Dotman’s honesty sheds light on a side often hidden from social media: the isolation, the disconnection from family, and the unseen emotional weight.
For celebrities, especially, it’s easy to assume success abroad will be seamless. But like Dotman, many find that leaving home also means leaving behind the support systems that kept them grounded.
💬 Opinion: A Brave Truth in a Culture That Fears Vulnerability
Dotman’s confession is not just heartbreaking — it’s brave. In an industry and society that often celebrates strength and “success” without context, he’s reminding fans that mental and emotional well-being matter just as much as fame or money.
His struggle reflects what many Nigerians in the diaspora silently face — the clash between ambition and emotional reality. The pressure to make it, the fear of failure, and the deep ache of missing out on life back home, especially moments with loved ones.
This isn’t to discourage relocation — but to spark real, necessary conversations around preparation, expectations, and emotional resilience for those considering such a big life change.
🧠 Let’s Talk Mental Health, Especially Among Celebs
Dotman’s post is also a call to check on our creatives, entertainers, and friends abroad. Beneath the curated posts and performance smiles, many are hurting. Fame doesn’t shield one from depression, and success doesn’t cancel out longing.
He deserves compassion, not criticism. And hopefully, his honesty will open doors for more public figures to speak freely about their struggles without fear of judgment.
🇳🇬 Notable Nigerian Celebs Who Relocated Abroad
The trend of Nigerian celebrities relocating abroad has grown over the years. Stars like:
Eldee, Dr. Sid, Tacha, Uche Jombo
Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade, Rita Dominic, Asake
…have all explored life outside Nigeria for different reasons — career shifts, family, safety, or better living conditions.
But Dotman’s story reminds us that no path is entirely perfect — and every move comes with its own weight.
Trending Hashtags:
#DotmanSpeaks #SilentStruggles #JapaChronicles #LifeAbroad #NaijaCelebs #MentalHealthMatters #DiasporaRealities #StarLife #NaijaToTheWorld #CheckOnYourFriends
🗣️ Do you think relocating abroad is always the better option? Have you or someone you know faced emotional challenges after moving? Share your thoughts and encourage Dotman with a kind word below.
