By Charles Pemu 
A Nigerian man who once secured a fully funded scholarship to study in Norway now earns a living by packing waste in Bayelsa State for ₦4,000 per day, following his deportation over drug trafficking charges.
The man’s story was shared on social media by @PH_Socials on X (formerly Twitter), including videos of him narrating his fall from grace — from a promising academic opportunity abroad to life on the margins back home.
According to him, his journey took a dark turn when he began associating with individuals involved in substance abuse. He admitted to transporting drugs from Norway to Italy, encouraged by some Nigerian acquaintances, including a man from Bayelsa. While his first attempt was met with praise from fellow Nigerians abroad, his second attempt led to his arrest and subsequent deportation.
“They said Nigerians are bringing drugs into their country. I was expelled and sent back to Bayelsa,” he said.
Now, the former scholar works menial jobs, collecting household waste to make ends meet. Despite the hardship, he remains hopeful, saying: “I’m hoping for a government job.”
The story has sparked conversation online about peer pressure, the vulnerabilities of students abroad, and the long-term consequences of poor choices. It also highlights the resilience of individuals forced to start over and the need for better reintegration programs for deported Nigerians.