Prioritising Mental Health in Global Mobility
At Relocation Africa, we understand that a successful relocation depends on more than efficient logistics – it requires the emotional and mental well-being of the assignee as well.
Prioritising the assignee’s mental health during a relocation is something we care about and resonates deeply with one of our core values, ‘Consider the person’ – because behind every move is a human being navigating big changes.
This May, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we invited Katie Walker a licensed clinical mental health counselor and founder of the Bergeseen Group, to write a LinkedIn article titled Beyond Logistics: Why Expat Mental Health Matters More Than Ever. Katie has nearly two decades of experience supporting expatriates through transitions. As an expat herself, she understands the emotional challenges of international relocation.
Relocating is a big life shift, it comes with more than just packed boxes and airport transfers, it comes with uncertainty, stress, excitement, grief, and everything in between. That’s why, as part of our commitment to duty of care, we’ve added a Mental Health Support channel to our assignee platform. This feature offers digital wellness resources and access to professional guidance, designed to support expats from pre-departure through to assignment completion.
Follow us on LinkedIn for more insights, and click here to read the full article.
Africa in Focus: Country Spotlight – Nigeria
As one of Africa’s largest economies, Nigeria continues to be a focal point for international business, especially in sectors such as energy, fintech, and infrastructure. Although Nigeria ranks fourth in GDP on the continent, it continues to serve as a critical hub for multinationals operating in energy, fintech, agriculture, and infrastructure. This destination overview of Nigeria covers relevant insights for expatriates and corporates.
Preferred Expat Housing Areas:
- Victoria Island – One of the most prestigious and cosmopolitan suburbs in Lagos, Nigeria. It’s a highly sought-after area, especially among expatriates, diplomats, and business travellers. As a key business and financial hub, it houses multinational headquarters, luxury hotels, embassies, and high-end shopping malls.For parents, living in Victoria Island means you’re very close to some of the best international schools in Lagos, particularly American International School of Lagos, British International School, and the French school, Lycée Français Louis Pasteur as they are in the area with a 10 – 20-minute drive depending on traffic.
- Ikoyi – Ikoyi is an upscale residential area located on Lagos Island, west of Victoria Island. Known for its leafy streets, gated estates, and diplomatic residences, Ikoyi is quieter than Victoria Island, making it a top choice for high-level expats, diplomats, and corporate executives.
Ikoyi’s proximity to leading international schools, within a 10–25-minute drive makes it especially attractive for expatriate families. - Banana Island – An exclusive man-made island that stands as a symbol of opulence and exclusivity. Banana Island is the go-to destination for the affluent and influential in Nigeria.Banana Island is the furthest away from international schools, most within 15 to 30 minutes’ drive.
- Lekki Phase 1 – A fast-growing, dynamic residential and commercial district located east of Ikoyi and Victoria Island, across the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge. It’s known for its vibrant energy, gated estates, modern apartments, and a mix of upscale and mid-range living options.Lekki’s proximity to international schools’ places it within a 10–30-minute drive of the schools.
Key Considerations for our Expats:
It is standard practice for tenants to pay one year’s rent upfront, which can be a significant consideration when planning relocation expenses.
Nigeria does not offer diplomatic clauses. Early termination is only possible on leases of two years or more, with a three-month notice.
All leases must be registered with the Lagos State Tenancy Authority to be legally binding, especially for properties over one year.
Nigeria: International Education & Healthcare
Nigeria offers a range of reputable international schools that provide globally recognised curricula, including British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. This makes it easier for expatriate families to ensure educational continuity during relocation.
- American International School of Lagos
Offers a U.S.-based curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 12. Known for excellent facilities, extracurricular programs, and a strong U.S. college preparatory track.
- British International School, Lagos
Offers the National Curriculum of England, IGCSE, and A-Levels. Ideal for UK nationals and students targeting UK universities.
- Abuja International School
Offers a blend of American and IB curricula and is popular with diplomatic and NGO communities based in the capital.
- Lycée Français Louis Pasteur (French School of Lagos)
Provides the French national curriculum from preschool through high school. Accredited by the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad), it’s well-suited for Francophone families and those seeking a French-language education.
Key Benefits for Assignees:
- These schools have diverse student bodies, fostering global perspectives and a sense of belonging for expat children.
- They typically offer language support, transition programs, and international-standard extracurriculars.
- Campuses are secure, well-maintained, and close to high-end residential areas like Ikoyi, Victoria Island, and Banana Island.
Healthcare Considerations:
Major cities such as Lagos and Abuja offer access to reputable private hospitals with high standards of care.
Key Considerations for our Expats:
- Medical Evacuation Coverage is strongly advised. While private care is available, complex procedures or emergencies may require evacuation to facilities in other countries.
- Health Insurance should include access to international-standard hospitals, outpatient care, and emergency evacuation.
- Routine medications should be sourced in advance in case of shortage.
Industry Insights & Trends: How African Countries Are Attracting Investment and Reshaping Mobility
Many African countries are actively enhancing their business environments to attract foreign investment, through improvements in tax incentives, infrastructure, and visa frameworks. Africa currently holds 19% of the global population, and by 2050, 1 in 4 people on Earth will be African. The continent has the youngest population in the world, with a median age of just 19, compared to 38 in the U.S., 39 in China, and 44 in Europe.
Microsoft Co-Founder, Bill Gates has expressed optimism about Africa’s future, speaking at the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers event held in Lagos, Gates stated the continent’s demographic advantage, calling Africa the “most fascinating” region of the century due to its youthful population.
Why this matters:
For global mobility business leaders and professionals, this creates both opportunity and complexity. As organisations scale into African markets, they must align their mobility strategies to meet on-the-ground realities, from navigating local compliance and visa processes to securing suitable housing and supporting employee wellbeing.
Regional integration efforts, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), are making intra-African mobility and trade easier than ever before. These agreements are breaking down traditional borders, enabling talent and goods to move more freely across the continent. For companies, this opens the door to intra-country relocations, regional project deployments, and more agile strategies.
At the same time, the African diaspora, many of whom have studied or worked abroad represent a valuable talent pool. As opportunities on the continent grow, more members of the diaspora are choosing to return, bringing international expertise and a global outlook back to the market.
With all these shifts underway, a one-size-fits-all approach to relocation no longer works. Companies need adaptive mobility policies, strong local partnerships, and a clear understanding of regional frameworks to remain competitive.
At Relocation Africa, we provide tailored mobility support across the continent, helping businesses navigate local complexities while delivering a seamless experience for their assignees.
If your organisation is looking to adapt its mobility policies to better suit the African market, get in touch with our team at www.relocationafrica.com . We’re here to help you.
Celebrating Pride Month at Relocation Africa
This June, we stood in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate Pride Month, a time to honour love, identity, and the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion.
At Relocation Africa, we’re committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered to be their true selves. We believe that our differences are our strength, and we celebrate the diversity that enriches our team.
To our LGBTQ+ colleagues, friends, and allies: we see you, we support you, and we celebrate you.
