Nigerians express mixed feelings over ‘Japa’ syndrome

A cross section of Nigerians on Wednesday expressed mixed feelings over the growing level of compatriots relocating abroad in search of greener pastures.

Some residents told the newsmen in Abuja that given the opportunity to travel abroad, they would hurriedly embrace it owing to the economic situation nationwide.

Others were of the view that the economic situation had become unbearable even in other countries of the world, praying that the economy would improve to encourage compatriots to stay in their fatherland.

Mr. Raphael Adeyi, a sales analyst, said some Nigerians travel in search of greener pastures and better job opportunities.

“In Nigeria, once you tell someone you have been abroad, you get exclusive treatment.

“I think this can be attributed to the low self-esteem possessed by most Nigerians.

“They don’t even care if the country abroad is Togo, Niger, or Somalia. To them, abroad is abroad,” Adeyi said.

Mr. Atoms John, a marketer, said that Nigerians ‘Japa’ to other countries because they could pursue careers easily, adding that he would travel out of Nigeria if given the opportunity.

“It is not that I don’t love Nigeria, but the fact is that the system is so bad, it takes connection to actually get something tangible running here.

“Outside Nigeria, if you have the right information and you’re ready to work, you will be gainfully employed,’’ he said.

He added that Nigeria should create an environment where growing businesses could thrive.

“We can see how international businesses have been folding up and returning to their country of origin or moving to other countries that have a working system,” he said.

Mr. George Amahwe, a logistics coordinator, said that families migrate to build a better life for their children.

“A person will graduate, and there is no job, no good road; the economy is crashing.

“People travel mainly to seek greener pastures. They believe they can survive, work, and earn better money over there than in Nigeria.

“If I have a good-paying job here in Nigeria, I will not leave. Nigeria is my country, and I love it, but I can’t stay because things are not working well, “he said.

According to Amahwe, Nigeria will be a perfect country if all infrastructure is put in place.

“We need to have good educational systems, health care systems, and good roads. The government needs to do better,” he said.