Big Story: Why I Left My UBA Job In Nigeria To Begin New Life As Dishwasher In Italy – Ex-Banker Tell Her Story

A former staff of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) has opened up on her decision to resign from her banking job in Nigeria and relocate to Italy, where she now works as a dishwasher.

The TikTok user identified as @freshstartdiaries stirred reactions in August after revealing that she once worked as a banker with the United Bank for Africa (UBA) but left the job to begin a new life in Italy as a dishwasher. Her video quickly went viral, sparking curiosity among social media users.
Why I left my UBA job in Nigeria to begin new life as a dishwasher in Italy – Ex-Banker
Ex-banker.

In an exclusive interview with a media outlet, the former banker addressed the many questions raised by her story. While she admitted that her earnings in Italy differ significantly from her “comfortable” salary at UBA, she emphasized that her decision was not driven by money.

According to her, the peace of mind, quality of life, and opportunities for personal growth abroad outweigh the financial differences.
Why she left UBA job to become a dishwasher

Explaining why she walked away from her banking career, she said her move was fueled by a strong desire for freedom, self-development, and the chance to pursue new opportunities overseas.
She said …

“Even though I had a stable career, I realised I wanted a life with more freedom, personal growth, and the chance to explore opportunities abroad. Leaving a good job was hard, but I knew starting fresh in Italy was the path to a better future. “Most importantly, another reason I left Nigeria was for my dad. Growing up, he always told me that once I finished school in Nigeria, he would fly me abroad, it was his dream for me. Sadly, he passed away 15 years ago before he could fulfil that promise.

So everything I’m doing today isn’t just for myself, but also to honour him and keep his dream alive. I know he would be so proud of me now.”

She also addressed the perception that dishwashing is somehow “less” than working in a bank. According to her, every honest job has dignity, and fulfillment comes from the freedom, peace of mind, and personal growth it brings, not from the title or societal status associated with the work.

“Some might think dishwashing is lesser than banking, but dignity comes from giving your best in whatever you do. My daily life is simpler, and I feel grounded and free. I’ve learned humility, patience, and self-reliance—things money can’t buy,” she added.

Watch video below …