Nigerian graduate Olotu Olanrewaju, 24, loves his country for its culture, food, music, and close-knit community.

However, he feels held back professionally and is considering moving abroad for better opportunities. Olotu believes his electrical engineering degree would be more valued overseas.

Nigeria’s lack of reliable infrastructure, security concerns, corruption, and poor governance create barriers for young people like Olotu. Many are contemplating “japa,” a Yoruba term meaning “to escape,” to find a better life abroad.

The BBC reached out to Nigerian officials but received no response. Emigrating from Nigeria is not a new trend, but it has become more urgent for Gen Z and millennials. A 2022 survey found that 69% of Nigerians aged 18-35 would relocate if given the chance.

Social media is filled with young Nigerians sharing their “japa” experiences. While some miss home, others highlight the benefits of moving abroad. However, emigrating is expensive, especially with Nigeria’s rising cost of living and currency depreciation.

Professionals and graduates with skills and qualifications find it easier to secure jobs and visas in the West. Those without visas often take dangerous routes across the Sahara Desert or the Mediterranean Sea. Many die on the journey, and those who survive struggle to find work and decent living conditions.

Olotu and his parents have been saving for years. He hopes to move to Germany or Spain and is taking German classes to improve his chances. His brother, Daniel, 27, moved to Scotland two years ago and finds the infrastructure reliable.

Oluwatobi Abodunrin, 29, moved to London last year and feels positive about the move, despite missing friends and family. She believes Nigerian youth are talented and deserve recognition and respect.

The UK is a popular destination for “japa,” with more than 270,000 Nigerians living there. The number of Nigerians granted UK work visas has quadrupled since 2019. However, the UK has tightened visa rules in response to the increase.

Canada is also desirable, with a surge in Nigerians seeking residency there since 2015. Zoology student Elizabeth Ademuyi Anuoluwapo wants to move for financial stability, despite missing the cozy vibe of Nigeria.

The medical profession in Nigeria is especially affected by “japa.” In 2022, at least 50 doctors left the country every week.

The government plans to train more healthcare workers and has proposed laws requiring medical graduates to work in Nigeria for a minimum period before leaving. These proposals face opposition from doctors’ unions.

Some, like Dr. Vongdip Nankpah, believe it is important to stay in Nigeria to contribute to the community. However, Olotu does not feel obligated to stay and would see himself as a representative of Nigerians abroad.

For those who can afford it, “japa” offers adventure, ambition, and wealth but risks breaking ties with the past. Like many Nigerian students, Olotu is weighing the benefits against the costs.

Source: BBC

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz7el6p8p9xo

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