Burial traditions have long been a cornerstone of Nigerian culture, deeply rooted in the belief that a person’s final resting place should be in their homeland. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of Nigerians choosing to bury their deceased loved ones abroad. This shift is influenced by multiple factors, including security concerns, cultural evolution, financial burdens, and the increasing number of Nigerians settling permanently in foreign countries.
This article explores why more Nigerians are opting for overseas burials and the cultural, financial, and personal factors driving this change.
The Changing Burial Culture Among Nigerians
Traditionally, Nigerians, especially in the southern regions, consider it an abomination to bury their dead outside their ancestral land. The Igbo, for instance, believe in the concept of “continuity of life” and insist on returning their deceased to their homeland for proper burial rites. Similarly, the Yoruba view death as a transition to another realm, reinforcing the belief in burying loved ones close to home.
Despite these strong traditions, many Nigerians abroad are now making different choices due to several modern realities.
Notable Nigerians Who Were Buried Abroad
Several high-profile Nigerians have been buried overseas due to various reasons, including safety concerns, convenience, and financial constraints.
1. Prof. Alphonsus – Safety Concerns
A Harvard-trained Nigerian-American professor, Alphonsus, returned to Nigeria to contribute to medical research. Unfortunately, during a trip to his home state of Imo, he was attacked by armed criminals. Though he survived the attack, the trauma led to his untimely death.
Before passing, he instructed his family never to come to Nigeria for his burial. Consequently, his wife arranged for his body to be transported back to the United States, where he was laid to rest.
2. Olugbenga Owolabi – Insecurity in Nigeria
Olugbenga Owolabi, a Nigerian-American businessman, returned to Ogbomoso, Oyo State, to invest in the hospitality industry. However, he was kidnapped alongside his staff in July 2022. Despite his family paying a ransom, he was murdered by his abductors. His body was later transported to the U.S. for burial, where his family and friends could mourn in safety.
3. Majek Fashek – Financial Constraints
Reggae legend Majek Fashek passed away in New York on June 1, 2020. His family initially sought to repatriate his remains but faced financial difficulties, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, he was buried in the U.S., leaving many fans in Nigeria disappointed.
4. Sound Sultan – Religious Reasons
Renowned Nigerian musician Sound Sultan succumbed to cancer on July 11, 2021, in the U.S. He was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic customs. Many Nigerians questioned why his remains were not returned home, but religious and logistical reasons played a role in the decision.
5. Antonio Oladeinde Fernandez – Family Settlements
Nigerian billionaire Antonio Fernandez passed away in Belgium in 2015. Since most of his children resided outside Nigeria, they decided to bury him in Brussels rather than transport his remains to Nigeria.
Key Reasons Nigerians Are Buried Abroad
1. Security Concerns
The increasing level of insecurity, including kidnappings and violent crimes, discourages many families from returning bodies to Nigeria for burial. Many fear for the safety of mourners who would travel for the funeral.
2. Financial Burden of Repatriation
The process of repatriating a body to Nigeria is extremely costly and bureaucratic. Requirements from the Nigerian embassy in New York, for example, include:
- Death certificate
- Transit/burial permit
- Notarized embalmers affidavit
- Non-communicable disease letter
- $30 processing fee
- Expensive airfare for the remains
These costs, coupled with the high price of burial ceremonies in Nigeria, make overseas burials a more practical choice for many families.
3. The ‘Japa’ Syndrome and Permanent Relocation
As more Nigerians migrate permanently, they are adopting new burial preferences. Many now wish to be buried in their country of residence, where their children and grandchildren can easily visit their graves.
4. Changing Cultural and Religious Beliefs
While traditional burial customs are still upheld, modernity and religious beliefs influence decisions. Many Nigerian Muslims, for instance, prefer immediate burial, which often means being laid to rest abroad. Christianity and Western influences also contribute to the acceptance of overseas burials.
5. Emotional and Logistical Factors
For many Nigerians abroad, the idea of burying their loved ones far from their place of residence is emotionally difficult. Families prefer a location where they can visit frequently, ensuring that the deceased’s memory remains alive.
The Cost and Burden of Traditional Nigerian Burials
1. Elaborate Burial Rites
Traditional burials in Nigeria are often expensive, involving:
- Multiple ceremonies
- Feeding large crowds
- Expensive caskets and attire
- Extended family expectations
For some, the pressure to meet cultural expectations causes financial distress.
2. Travel and Safety Concerns
Many Nigerians abroad find it difficult and expensive to travel to Nigeria for burials, especially given the risks associated with insecurity.
3. Neglected Gravesites
Some families who bury loved ones in Nigerian villages later regret the decision due to poor maintenance of the gravesites. Overgrown vegetation, vandalism, and neglect often make it hard for relatives to visit and pay their respects.
The Shift in Burial Preferences – A Personal Perspective
Ada Okeke, a Nigerian based in the U.S., shared her painful experience of burying her father in Nigeria. Despite her family’s best efforts, his grave became neglected. She now believes that being buried closer to her children ensures they can honor her memory properly.
Similarly, Cathiam, another U.S.-based Nigerian, questioned why her friend’s late wife was flown to Nigeria for burial when her entire family lived abroad. She argued that traditions should not outweigh the convenience and emotional well-being of the deceased’s loved ones.
Conclusion: Burial Should Be a Personal Choice
The growing trend of Nigerians being buried overseas is a reflection of changing times. While cultural traditions remain significant, personal preferences, security concerns, financial constraints, and modern lifestyles are reshaping burial decisions.
Ultimately, burial should be a deeply personal choice, with families prioritizing the wishes of the deceased and the well-being of their loved ones over societal expectations.
Final Thoughts
As more Nigerians settle abroad, the question of where to be buried is becoming increasingly important. Should tradition dictate burial choices, or should families prioritize convenience and safety? What are your thoughts on this growing trend? Share in the comments below.
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