Victor Boniface: “Europe is Boring — I’d Rather Live in Nigeria”

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has opened up about life abroad, boldly declaring that Europe is “boring” compared to the vibrant lifestyle in Nigeria.

Speaking on The Culture League Podcast — his new project alongside Super Eagles teammates Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika, anchored by popular presenter VJ Adams — Boniface said he would gladly endure a six-hour drive every day from Nigeria to Germany just to train and play, if such a commute were possible.

“If Nigeria is like a six-hour drive to Germany, I would stay here [Nigeria] and drive every morning to train and play in Germany. Europe is boring,” the forward said.

Boniface, who joined Bayer Leverkusen from Belgian side Union SG in 2023, has quickly become a fan favorite in Germany for his performances on the pitch. But his comments reveal a longing for the cultural richness and everyday energy of home.

Opinion:
Boniface’s remarks might sound surprising to those who dream of living in Europe, but they shine a light on an often-overlooked truth: lifestyle and happiness aren’t just about location — they’re about connection. In Nigeria, life is loud, colorful, and deeply communal. From street food aromas to spontaneous laughter in busy markets, there’s a rhythm you can feel in your bones.

In contrast, Europe — for all its order, beauty, and infrastructure — can feel too quiet, too predictable, especially for someone raised in a society where human warmth is as common as sunshine. Boniface’s candid take is a reminder that success abroad doesn’t erase the pull of home, and sometimes, the heart thrives better where it feels most alive.

For many Nigerians abroad, it’s not about choosing between opportunity and home — it’s about finding a way to enjoy both.