Interview with Mr. Omaboe, Who Lived in Germany for Over 70 Years

Migration is a big decision for many people, often driven by the search for better opportunities or safety. I spoke to Mr. Omaboe, who has lived in Germany for over 70 years. He left his home country in search of a better life and has since built a future in Germany, choosing not to go back.

In this interview, he shares the reasons behind his decision; from jobs and financial stability to safety and legal issues; along with other factors that keep many migrants from returning home, even after decades.

Question: Thank you for agreeing to this interview. You've been in Germany for over half a century now. Can you share what initially brought you here?

Answer: Thank you for having me. I came to Germany in the late 1950s in search of better opportunities. Back home, things were difficult; there were fewer job prospects, and life was becoming increasingly challenging. I must admit, for me, it was also an adventure. I had heard about the opportunities in Europe, particularly for work, and Germany seemed like a place where I could build a future. Before relocating, I spent some time in Great Britain.

Question: It’s clear that economic reasons played a big role in your decision to migrate. Over the years, did you ever consider returning to your home country?
Answer: Well, yes, there were times when I thought about it, especially during the early years. But every time I visited, I realized that things hadn’t really improved. The economic situation was still tough, and stable work was hard to find. I was also supporting my family back home, sending money to help them, which kept me in Germany. It felt like I could do more for them from here than if I returned.

Question: That’s understandable. You mentioned supporting your family. Do you think the financial aspect is one of the main reasons why many migrants, like yourself, choose not to return?
Answer: Absolutely. Sending money back home has been a big part of my life. In Germany, I was able to send remittances that made a real difference to my family. It’s something many migrants experience. If I went back to my home country, I wouldn’t be able to provide financial support in the same way. That’s one of the main reasons many of us choose to stay. The money goes further here, and the standard of living is better.

Question: It’s clear that finances have been important for you. But there are also social and political factors. Have you faced any political instability or persecution in your home country that made returning difficult?
Answer: Yes, political instability has been another issue. Over the years, my country went through periods of unrest. There were coups, corruption, and violence, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. I could never be sure if it was safe to return, and there was always a fear that I might get caught up in something. It wasn’t just about economics; safety and security were also major concerns.

Question: That must have been incredibly difficult. How did you manage the cultural adjustment when you first arrived in Germany?
Answer: It was a big challenge at first. The language barrier was tough, and I felt isolated. But over the years, I got used to it. I met other people from similar backgrounds, and we created a sense of community. Over time, I started to feel like I belonged here. It’s a different culture, yes, but after 50 years, it feels like home. Going back now would feel strange. My ties here are strong; I’ve built a life and relationships that I wouldn’t want to leave behind.

Question: It sounds like you’ve really integrated into the community here. Do you think the longer you stay, the harder it is to return home, especially with the changes you’ve made here?
Answer: Definitely. When I first arrived, it was all about survival. But now, I’ve raised a family here, made friends, and built a career. My grandchildren have grown up here; they have integrated into European society, and I want the best for them. Returning home would mean uprooting everything; not just for me, but for my family. My community here is also important. There is a support system, and I feel connected.

Question: It’s not just about the job or the money anymore, it seems. What about the fear of returning due to legal reasons or possible deportation? Has that crossed your mind?
Answer: Yes, there’s always been a level of uncertainty. When I first arrived, I didn’t know what my legal status would be in the long term. But over time, I was able to secure my permanent residence. I know many people who fear returning, as they might have faced persecution back home or were fleeing instability. Even if conditions have changed in their home countries, they are still uncertain about their safety. The fear of being deported or facing problems upon return is very real for many migrants.

Question: So, it seems like a combination of safety, financial stability, and the life you’ve built here has made returning home less appealing. Do you ever see a possibility of returning for good?
Answer: Honestly, I don’t see it happening. I have thought about it, but every time I do, I remember the reasons I came here in the first place. The opportunities, the security, and the life I’ve created; they are not things I want to give up. It’s not that I don’t love my country; it’s just that the conditions in Germany have given me chances I wouldn’t have had back home. My grandchildren are now German and British, and this is their home, too.

Question: You’ve mentioned some very real challenges migrants face. But are there any specific factors that have made you more certain about not returning, even after so many years?
Answer: Absolutely. Beyond economic and safety concerns, there are things like poor infrastructure back home. The roads are in bad shape, and the power supply is unstable—we have constant power outages, something I’ve never had to worry about here. Healthcare is another issue; in my country, the facilities are often overcrowded or under-equipped. Even the rich and politicians from my country come to Germany for medical care. At my age, why should I go back to a place where I can’t even rely on stable electricity or proper healthcare?

Question: What if you had gotten a well-paid job back home? Would that have changed your decision?
Answer: No, not at all. My biggest challenge is work ethics; getting things done properly and on time. Unfortunately, in my home country, time, the most essential element, seems to have been pushed to the background. After living in Germany for decades, I find it uncomfortable to work and live in such an environment. In Germany, perfection is the trademark.

Question: It sounds like all these factors combined have made returning feel almost impossible. How do you see the future for young people from Africa who might be considering migration?
Answer: The reality is that many young people still see Europe as a place for better opportunities, just like I did when I first came. But they’ll face their own challenges. The world is changing fast, and migration isn’t easy. However, the push factors; like lack of opportunities and security back home; are still strong. I think many will continue to come, but it’s important that they have the right support to build a life here, just like I did.

Question: Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. It’s been enlightening to hear your perspective on migration and the factors that keep you in Germany.
Answer: Thank you for giving me the chance to speak. It’s important for people to understand the reasons behind migration and why some of us choose to stay. It’s not just one factor, but a combination of things that make this decision so complex.
Mr. Omaboe is late, may he rest in perfect peace.

Desmond John Beddy