1. What is the “Japa” phenomenon and why is it prevalent among Nigerians?
see all the answers below
2. What are the different perspectives on “Japa”?
3. Is “Japa” the ultimate solution to Nigeria’s challenges?
4. What are some alternatives to “Japa” for contributing to Nigeria’s future?
5. How can individuals get involved in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria, whether they’re in the country or abroad?
As a British-born Nigerian who’s experienced both sides of the “Japa” equation, I understand the complex emotions and challenges tied to this mass migration phenomenon. My story reflects the dual pull of seeking opportunities abroad and the yearning to contribute to my homeland.
Having moved back to Nigeria in 1971 at age three and then left again in 1990 at 22, I witnessed the early waves of “Checking Out” firsthand. While I built a successful career in the UK, a void lingered – a disconnect from my roots and a desire to make a difference in Nigeria. That’s what led me to return in 2009. Yet, bureaucratic hurdles and the absence of an enabling system forced me to return to the UK part-time to fund my youth empowerment venture. By 2014, with hope dwindling, I closed my Nigerian business and rebuilt my UK life.
Now, in my mid-50s, the call to be part of the Nigerian solution remains strong despite my past experiences. But how do I, someone who once “Japaed” twice, encourage others to stay? Addressing the root causes of “Japa” and offering alternative solutions fostering hope and progress.
Understanding the “Japa” Phenomenon:
The drivers of “Japa” are multifaceted, encompassing:
- Economic hardship: Low wages, high unemployment, and inflation make ends meet a constant struggle for many Nigerians, with young graduates with limited job prospects and stagnant wages.
- Security concerns: Violence, crime, and instability create a sense of unease and push individuals towards safer environments, such as families living in an area plagued by extortion, fearing for their safety.
- Lack of opportunity: Limited access to quality education, healthcare, and professional development fuels the desire for better prospects abroad, with students seeking specialised education unavailable in Nigeria.
- Brain drain: The loss of skilled professionals further hinders economic development, creating a vicious cycle such as the shortage of qualified doctors due to many leaving for better opportunities abroad.
What is the “Japa” phenomenon and why is it prevalent among Nigerians?
It refers to the mass migration of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad. It’s prevalent due to economic hardship, security concerns, lack of opportunities, and brain drain, pushing individuals to seek greener pasture.
Perspectives on “Japa”:
- The Frustrated: Many, like myself once, view “Japa” as the only escape, citing government inefficiency and a lack of an enabling environment like an entrepreneur struggling with complex bureaucracy and unable to obtain permits.
- The Idealistic: Some young Nigerians see “Japa” as a path to personal growth and achieving their dreams, often fueled by social media portrayals of success abroad, such as An artist yearning for a more vibrant and supportive creative community.
- The Government: Officials emphasise improved policies and youth involvement in government initiatives, advocating for a collective effort to address challenges exemplified by The Minister of Education highlighting increased youth participation in government scholarships.
What are the different perspectives on “Japa”?
Frustration with the Nigerian government’s inefficiency to idealistic views of personal growth and success abroad. Government officials emphasise improved policies and youth involvement in addressing the challenges driving migration.
Is “Japa” the Answer?
While individual circumstances vary, “Japa” often comes with unintended consequences:
- Disconnection from roots: Leaving can lead to social and cultural fragmentation, weakening community ties and family bonds of Nigerian families separated due to migration, and experiencing cultural and social challenges in new environments.
- Mental health implications: The pressure to succeed abroad, coupled with feelings of isolation, can lead to anxiety and depression, as seen with Nigerians facing discrimination and limited job opportunities despite their qualifications.
- False promises: The “greener pastures” abroad may not always be as rosy, leading to disappointment and disillusionment evidenced by the high cost of living and challenges of integrating into a new society.
Is “Japa” the ultimate solution to Nigeria’s challenges?
“Japa” may have unintended consequences like disconnection from roots, mental health issues, and false promises. Hence, it may not be the ultimate solution. Alternative approaches to progress and hope in Nigeria are encouraged.
Hope Beyond “Japa”:
Individual and collective action can offer alternatives to “Japa“:
- Entrepreneurship: Supporting and nurturing small businesses creates jobs and fosters economic growth within Nigeria by Young Nigerians starting small businesses and creating jobs in their communities.
- Advocacy and accountability: Holding the government accountable for transparency, improved infrastructure, and security creates a more enabling environment—for example, Individuals using social media to raise awareness about social issues and advocate for change.
- Diaspora engagement: Leveraging the skills and expertise of Nigerians abroad to support development projects back home fosters collaboration and progress, for instance, Creating platforms for skilled Nigerians abroad to connect and contribute their expertise to development projects.
- Shifting mindsets: Promoting a culture of innovation, collaboration, and collective responsibility fosters optimism and a sense of agency, such as Countering negative narratives about Nigeria and fostering a sense of national pride and community.
What are some alternatives to “Japa” for contributing to Nigeria’s future?
Other alternatives include entrepreneurship, advocacy, diaspora engagement, and promoting innovation and collective responsibility.
My Story, Your Inspiration:
My journey reflects the complexities of “Japa”. While I’ve experienced its allure and setbacks, I haven’t given up on contributing to a brighter Nigerian future. Having “checked out” twice, I understand the allure of “Japa.” But my journey has shown me that true fulfilment lies in contributing to the solution. My story is familiar. Many Nigerians, successful abroad, grapple with the mental and emotional cost of disconnection. We must remember Nigeria’s success depends on its people, within and beyond its borders.
SamSoyombo.com is my contribution, offering career guidance and empowering Nigerians to thrive, whether they stay or go. But this is just one step. Let’s embrace collaboration, celebrate our diversity, and work together to build a Nigeria where “Japa” is not the only option but a choice made from a position of strength and opportunity.
How can individuals get involved in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria, whether they’re in the country or abroad?
Support local businesses, advocate for positive change, engage with diaspora communities, and promote national pride. SamSoyombo.com provides resources for Nigerians to thrive anywhere.
This journey is not about guilt or judgment. It’s about harnessing our collective potential to create a brighter future for ourselves and generations. Whether you’re in Nigeria or abroad, join me in this endeavour. Let’s rewrite the narrative, one empowered individual at a time.
Remember, Nigeria’s success is in our hands together.
Thank you, Sam for sharing your insightful perspective on the ‘Japa’ phenomenon and its complexities. Your personal journey and understanding of the drivers behind mass migration have provided valuable context. I appreciate your emphasis on alternative solutions, such as entrepreneurship, advocacy, and diaspora engagement, which offer hope and progress for Nigeria’s future. Your commitment to empowering Nigerians and rewriting the narrative is inspiring, and I look forward to joining you in this endeavour.
Your story of navigating “Japa” sheds light on reasons behind migration like economic hardship and security concerns. Despite challenges, you’re committed to Nigeria, advocating for alternatives like entrepreneurship and diaspora engagement. Your call to action to support local businesses and promote national pride is inspiring.
Thanks for sharing your journey and empowering others for Nigeria’s future.
Wow, I love the way you shared your personal experience in this blog; thanks for sharing, Sam.
I have read a lot about Nigerians who japaed and eventually became stranded due to false promises about the greener pastures. Their mental health and family bond suffered because of the choice they made to Japa.
I will like to know, how practical I can join you in this your passion towards having a better country.
How do we join our collective potential to create a brighter future for our dear country?
Thanks for your question Mercy, and for your interest in getting involved in building a better future for Nigeria! There are many ways you can contribute, both within Nigeria and abroad.
Here are some ideas:
Support local businesses: Whenever possible, choose to buy from Nigerian-owned businesses. This helps to strengthen the economy and create jobs.
Advocate for positive change: Use your voice to speak out about the issues that matter to you. This could involve contacting your representatives, participating in peaceful protests, or using social media to raise awareness.
Engage with diaspora communities: If you live abroad, connect with other Nigerians in your area. Together, you can share ideas, support each other, and pool your resources to give back to Nigeria.
Promote national pride: Celebrate Nigerian culture and achievements. This helps to counter negative stereotypes and build a more positive image of the country.
No matter what your skills or resources are, there is a way for you to get involved.
What are you passionate about? How can you use your skills and interests to contribute to a brighter future for Nigeria?
By working together, we can create a Nigeria where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Wow! Thanks Sam for explaining explicitly, I will hence patronize and support Nigerian businesses and of course, in my little way as a massage therapist I set up a free massage therapy for my local communities biweekly(here in Nigeria) to ease farmers of their physical pains and I also advocate for mental health on my social media platforms.
Together we build a better country!
This blog post provides a nuanced exploration of the “Japa” phenomenon, offering personal insights and a broader perspective on its causes and impacts. The author’s dual experience of moving between Nigeria and the UK highlights the emotional and practical challenges tied to migration. By dissecting factors such as economic hardship, security concerns, and brain drain, the post effectively illuminates the complex reasons behind the mass migration trend.
Thanks for your detailed comment, Daniel! It’s insightful to see how the post resonated with you, especially the exploration of emotional and practical challenges tied to migration. I’d love to hear your thoughts on potential solutions; what strategies do you think could effectively address the issues driving the “Japa” phenomenon? Your perspective could be valuable in shaping future discussions and solutions.
Dear Anita, To effectively address the issues driving the “Japa” phenomenon, where many Nigerians seek opportunities abroad, a multi faceted approach is essential:
1) Economic Reforms: Improve the economic environment by fostering job creation, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and attracting foreign investment. This includes enhancing infrastructure, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and creating a more business friendly climate that can lead to higher employment rates and better job stability.
2) Educational and Skill Development: Reform the educational system to align more closely with the needs of the job market. Emphasizing vocational training, technical skills, and entrepreneurial education can help equip the workforce with the necessary skills for the evolving economy, making local opportunities more appealing.
3) Governance and Political Stability: Strengthen governance by reducing corruption, enhancing transparency, and ensuring political stability. Good governance builds trust in public institutions, making citizens more confident in their country’s future and less inclined to seek stability elsewhere.
4) Healthcare and Social Services: Invest in healthcare infrastructure and social services to improve the quality of life. Accessible and high quality healthcare, alongside robust social safety nets, can reduce the need for citizens to seek better living conditions abroad.
5) Security Improvements: Address security challenges by enhancing law enforcement capabilities and ensuring the rule of law. Improved security reduces fears of violence and crime, making people feel safer and more willing to stay in their home country.
6) Youth Engagement and Empowerment: Create targeted programs for youth engagement and empowerment, providing mentorship, internships, and career development opportunities. Engaging the youth population helps harness their potential and gives them a stake in the country’s development.
By implementing these strategies, the underlying drivers of the “Japa” phenomenon can be addressed, making staying in the country a more attractive and viable option for Nigerians.