Japa Momentum Slows Down as Costs Soar and Visa Barriers Rise
In what many see as an unexpected twist, the once unstoppable Japa wave—the mass emigration of Nigerians seeking better lives abroad—appears to be slowing. Despite worsening economic conditions and growing insecurity in Nigeria, recent trends suggest that fewer people are making the leap across borders. Investigations by BusinessDay reveal that
Facts. Nigerians Are Now the Second Largest Migrant Group to the UK in 2024
The United Kingdom has become a top destination for Nigerians seeking better work, education, and quality of life—so much so that Nigeria now ranks second among all non-EU+ countries in migration to the UK in 2024. According to new data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), a staggering
From Lagos to Luxembourg – A Nigerian Shares Seven Hard Lessons You Should Know Before You Japa to Europe
Every year, thousands of young Nigerians pack their bags and head for Europe, chasing new dreams, career growth, or simply a chance at stability. But beneath the hashtags, airport selfies, and curated Instagram reels lies a more complex reality. Relocation is not magic—it’s migration. And like any big move, it
When Training Becomes a Ticket – The Hidden Cost of the Japa Wave in Lagos Civil Service
It was meant to build a smarter workforce for a smarter Lagos. Instead, it has exposed one of the more sobering realities of Nigeria’s deepening brain drain crisis. According to Lagos State’s Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, 30% of civil servants who were sent abroad for training in
‘No Mercy Abroad’ – Dele Momodu Warns Nigerians About the Harsh Realities of Japa
Renowned media entrepreneur Dele Momodu has advised Nigerians to rethink their japa ambitions, stressing that financial stability and opportunities exist right at home. In a recent interview with Teju Babyface, Momodu argued that with ₦30-40 million, a person can live comfortably and start a successful business in Nigeria instead of
Should I Stay or Should I Go? The Japa Dilemma for Young Nigerians
Nigerian graduate Olotu Olanrewaju finds himself at a crossroads—should he stay in the country he loves or seek a better life elsewhere? At 24, the electrical engineer cherishes Nigeria’s rich culture, delicious food, vibrant music, and deep sense of community. But professionally, he feels stuck. “I’m looking for greener pastures
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Nigerians Moving Abroad
Introduction: A Journey of Hope When Sade received her admission letter to a prestigious university in Canada, it felt like a dream come true. But her excitement was quickly overshadowed by the daunting reality of tuition fees, relocation expenses, and living costs. Would she have to forfeit the opportunity of
Practical Self-Care Tips and Building Resilience in Japa – Part 2
Prioritizing Self-Care While Abroad Stay Connected to Home: Regular video calls with family and friends can keep you grounded. Apps like WhatsApp and Skype are excellent tools for maintaining communication. Join Local Communities: Look for Nigerian associations or African cultural groups in your area. Websites like Meetup are a great
Doctors in Nigeria Demand Salary Benchmarks to Curb Migration
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is taking bold steps to address the mass migration of medical professionals, often referred to as the japa syndrome. During the third National Health Summit and National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, NMA President Prof. Bala Audu announced plans to establish a minimum benchmark
Top 5 Travel Insurance Platforms for Nigerians Relocating
Tunde’s Unexpected Emergency When Tunde relocated to Canada, he didn’t think he’d need travel insurance. But a minor injury that required urgent care left him grappling with unexpected medical bills. Reflecting on the experience, Tunde realized the importance of being prepared with reliable travel insurance. For Nigerians relocating abroad, travel