The Japa Pandemic: To leave or Not To Leave
By Niniola Takuro
We all know at least one person who has recently emigrated from Nigeria. Nowadays, everyone seeks stability and a better future, sadly we don’t see it happening in our country. We are all willing to risk everything and give up all we have just to go to the other side where the grass seems greener. Yet, no matter how far you go, you will always be known as a Nigerian and all the international scrutiny that comes with being a Nigerian will still affect you.
Emigration from Nigeria by Nigerians has become a pandemic. According to the Nigerian Immigration Statistics, in 2021, the emigration rate in Nigeria stood at 0.29 per 1,000 population. However, even with this large amount of people leaving, there is still a lot of expatriates and investors coming into the country. The question is why? With all the challenges that we seem to face, what makes Nigeria attractive to foreigners? What are they seeing that we are not?
Firstly, Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, which means there is a large market for businesses to tap into. With a population of over 200 million people, there is a diverse and rapidly growing consumer base, which can be an attractive prospect for investors looking to expand their business. Another reason is that Nigeria is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, coal, and agriculture. This presents an opportunity for investors in industries such as energy, mining, and agriculture to benefit from Nigeria’s abundant resources.
Let’s also look at one of our most significant selling points, the affordable cost of living. From reduced taxes to cheaper products, this is generally lower than in many Western countries, which can be a big advantage for those looking to save money. Finally, Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with its unique language, traditions, and customs and more than 1000 tourist landmarks, there is so much to explore and take in while living in Nigeria. It is simply a matter of being willing to leave your comfort zone and take in the sights around you.
Leaving the country may seem like the only option, but in reality, there are so many opportunities here. If foreigners are able to see these perks that come with running their businesses over here, we can also tap into it. Instead of running away, we should look at the positives and build on these for our business and career. People often say that if you can succeed here, you can make it anywhere else, and there is money to be made here if you are willing to be a part of the change we all want to see in Nigeria.
You have said all …. because i see no reason of leaving this country to another country regardless difference in reason …there is no country that is not facing individual challenges …
Well said! Challenges are everywhere! Thank you.
Nice write up I must commend the script writer for this short but educative epistle irrespective of this write up if I have my way I won’t think twice to travel out
Am a graduate of Auchi polytechnic Auchi mechanical engineering technology power and tools option I’ve had the opportunity to work in big industries like Akanu ibiam international airport Emene Enugu state 2018-2019 I did my NYSC there after my one year post NYSC days I wasn’t absorbed I had to find other means to survive I got an offer with Benin Electricity Distribution Company BEDC 2020-2021 as an Enumerator there’s nothing to write home about this is a job we were being paid on commission that means your effort commensurate your income at the end of the month and still we will be surprised when payment comes at some point we were paid 15000 which is not even right because the basic salary is 30k as a graduate o I laugh then plus commission but it got to a point they were paying 15k not even up to the basic pay how about the commission so I left seeking for another opportunity I got an offer with Nigeria breweries plc 2021-2022 Training with Industrial training fund ITF in collaboration with Nigeria Employers consultative Association ITF-NECA after the training I wasn’t absorbed in all of this I’ve not been able to even save a million naira on my own as a graduate since 2017 I graduated man is aging responsibility will soon set in so tell me if you are in my shoes and you got an offer to travel out will you think twice or decline ? Sometimes environment leads people astray it only takes the bold as courageous ones to stand there ground God grace and blessings all I pray for everyday left for me nothing works in this country anymore
Dear Jeremiah, Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us. We empathise with how difficult things have been. Your thoughts and opinions are very valid. We’ll just like you to always keep in mind that no matter how bad life may seem now, things will always improve as long as you commit to never giving up. Best regards.
Only if you know the amount of depression I am going through.
Graduated since over 6 years, never been able to get a descent job, 33, single and can not afford to care for oneself let alone meeting family needs. This your anti-japa preaching better stop now.