A Nigerian woman identified as Susan Maf, aged 51 and originally from Edo State, has been living on the streets of Rome for four years, despite spending more than two decades building a life in Italy.
Africa L B, a content creator who films encounters with Africans living in Europe, came across Susan near Rome’s main central station on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
She was standing alone, recording herself on her phone to post on her Facebook page, something she reportedly does multiple times every day, producing between five and ten videos daily.
When did Susan arrive in Italy?
Susan told Africa L B she arrived in Italy in September 1999 and has since obtained Italian citizenship, identifying herself as European rather than Nigerian.
She previously lived in Sardinia, where she had her own apartment, but left four years ago under circumstances she declined to explain clearly during the encounter.
When pressed, she indicated there had been conflict at her former home and that she had “no peace” there.
Susan declines to give details about her children
Despite her current situation, Susan was reluctant to describe herself as homeless. “I hold outside as I also hold inside,” she said, adding that she had “miracle houses.”
She also insisted she could manage on her own and declined to give details about her children or any former partner, saying only that she has family members spread across Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, and that they stay in contact.
Africa L B bought Susan food and hair dye from a nearby supermarket after she requested the items.
Africa L B appeals directly to Nigerians both at home, across Europe
Susan reportedly told him the groceries were sufficient for that day and the next, and declined when he offered to purchase more.
In the video, Africa L B appealed directly to Nigerians both at home and across Europe to come together and support Susan.
He described her as “a very cool and nice woman” and expressed concern that someone who had spent so long building a life in Europe had ended up in this position.
