To everyone that responded to my contribution, no comments!  But note that I did not say I was not successful here.  I will probably be among the most successful immigrants in Canada (looking at date of arrival) if you consider who I am today and what I was or had in my pockets when I arrived.  But remember that many waters have passed under the bridge.  My hope was that things would be easier for the poster when he arrives, the reason for my unsolicited advice.

Meaning of starting below zero level:  when you leave a society where you were born and grew up, you leave your established position.  Ask a tree whether grafting is a smooth process!

Many Nigerians think Canada will roll out the red carpet for you on arrival.  Yes, that will actually happen on the day you get here.  After that, you're on your own!

I wish the poster the very best.  Welcome to Canada, and make sure you enjoy the land!

Thank you all.

Hey broda,
I don't know whether to congratulate you or not on getting the permanent residency visa to Canada.  Yes, this may sound weird, especially when it comes from someone who moved here almost 8 years ago.  The normal Nigerian reaction is to say I'm selfish, like so many people have told me!  But I have my points and if I could do it again, I would act differently.  Here we go:

1.  Contrary to what most Nigerians believe, immigration is a retrogressive step.  Your life is starting below zero level.  Whatever you were in Nigeria ends at the Murtala Mohammed airport.

2.  Remember that some people were born here, their great great great grandfathers were born here.  They have been established over generations and they hold the advantage here.  The bad part is that they believe their god is bringing you here so that you could serve them.  They will always be unhappy to see you progress and as such will do everything to prevent it, except you agree to be their slaves. 

3.  The only advantage you have is that you are a Nigerian and you have the ability to survive and flourish anywhere, like a stubborn weed!  If this issue is just about you and you alone, there is no fear, you will be fine.

4.  Many people will tell you to come here for the sake of your children.  My advice is different; for the sake of your children, please don't come here!  While you are hustling to settle down, your children will be growing and will be taught by a society that believes everything that is completely opposite what you believe.  Before you know what is going on, you will realize you don't know your children anymore!  Most of the young men I have seen succeed here finished high school in Nigeria before moving to Canada.  Nigerian high schools may not have all the gadgets and funding schools have here but the hunger for excellence and the never-say-die attitude of the average Nigerian is usually learned by the time you are 16.

5.  It is not true that education is cheaper in Canada than Nigeria, may be high school. 

6. My sincere advice: Look for what business you can do in Nigeria (even the gas thing is okay if you listen to what I have to say after this line).  Then come to Canada with your family and land (don't fall into the trap of landing without your family).  Register a Canadian company that will carry out that your business in Nigeria (well, remember that a Canadian company will pay Canadian taxes; you've started serving your term!).  You can then send me a pm on what your next steps would be.  You will surely win on both sides. 

Note:  I am not a 419 or anything.  I am a Nigerian.  I have never contributed to this site.  I saw your question and thought a few words could be useful in your situation.   I wished someone said something to me 9 years ago!