WHY NIGERIANS ARE JAPA-ing: Causes, Consequences, And What It Means for Nigeria!
Let’s be honest, if you’ve not thought about “JAPA-ing” at least once this year, you deserve an award. Whether it’s the rising cost of fuel, unstable power supply, or the poor educational systems in federal and state levels, the temptation to get a visa and bounce is real. But while everyone is talking about how to leave Nigeria, not many are asking: what does this “JAPA fever” really mean for the country?
The JAPA trend, which simply means “to run away” in Yoruba, has evolved into a national movement. Every day, thousands of Nigerians are applying for study visas, work permits, or permanent residency abroad. In fact, in 2023 alone, over 20,000 Nigerian-trained professionals sought employment in the UK, Canada, and the US. This wave of migration comes with consequences. Let’s dig deep into the why, the who, and the impact.
Why Are Nigerians JAPA-ing? Many Nigerians are migrating due to a combination of economic challenges, insecurity, and lack of opportunities.
Economic hardship in Nigeria: With over 70 million Nigerians living in abject poverty and income is lower than the cost of living, affording basic amenities has become a daily struggle
Insecurity in Nigeria: From terrorism and human massacre in the North to rising cases of kidnapping in the South, Nigerians live each day in fear of the unknown and without protection.
Poor infrastructure and failing public services: From inconsistent power supply, to bad roads and poor public health services, Nigeria remains a hub for low productivity, accidents and loss of lives
Lack of job opportunities in Nigeria: This may sound cliche but every year, thousands of students are graduated from universities with no hope in the labour market. This has a major impact in the economy and crime wave as well
Better quality of life abroad: Countries like Canada, the UK, and Germany are now top destinations for Nigerians seeking a more stable life.
Who Is Leaving Nigeria? The JAPA wave cuts across social classes:
- Young graduates and professionals in fields like tech, medicine, and engineering
- Students pursuing higher education
- Middle-class families relocating entirely
- Even skilled workers who once had stable jobs but now feel undervalued
For example, over 75,000 Nigerian nurses have reportedly left the country since 2017. Similarly, about 50% of Nigerian-trained doctors now practice abroad, a trend that continues to grow.
The Impact of JAPA on Nigeria’s Economy Negative Effects:
The country is experiencing a severe brain drain, with sectors like healthcare and education
Nigeria’s doctor-to-patient ratio is now at a worrying 1:5,000, far below the WHO’s recommended 1:600.
Losing talent means reduced innovation and fewer entrepreneurs to drive local industries forward.
What Can Be Done To Reduce The Japa Wave In Nigeria?
- To address the causes of JAPA and make Nigeria a place worth staying in, these steps must be considered:
- Improve job creation and wage conditions to give people a reason to stay.
- Strengthen national security and trust in law enforcement.
- Revamp public services, especially in health and education.
- Invest in youth-focused initiatives and entrepreneurship programs.
- Rebuild citizens’ trust in the government through transparency and accountability.
JAPA isn’t just a trend, it’s a response to frustration. Nigerians aren’t just chasing greener pastures, they’re escaping burned-out ones. The solution isn’t to guilt trip those who leave, it’s to build a Nigeria they won’t want to leave in the first place.
Have you thought about JAPA-ing?
Why Are Nigerians Leaving in Droves?
Is the Grass Really Greener?
Japa or Stay?
What would make you stay?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
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