INEC has declared a winner of the 2023 presidential elections amidst multiple rigging allegations and outcries by citizens. This has inevitably led to social conversations on re-awakened japa dreams, even though japa money isn’t as easy to get as money for beans or dodo.
We spoke to seven Nigerians who’ve either left the country or had the opportunity to but didn’t take it. They shared what they wish they did differently and their advice to younger Nigerians.
“I planned to retire here, but I might go back”
— Christiana*, 63
I moved to the UK in the 70s with my husband and kids because his family is from there. It wasn’t the most popular decision then, and I badly missed Nigeria. It didn’t help that I separated from my husband soon after we left. I became quite successful — and I attribute it to the working system — raised my children alone and regularly sent money home, but I always wanted to return to Nigeria because of how much I missed my country. So when I retired in 2020, I decided to spend my retirement years in my fatherland. I started building a house in Lagos and eventually moved back in October 2022, but I regret it.
These past few weeks of cash scarcity have been tough for me. I don’t have a debit card because I put some limitations on my account so they only pay me over the counter. I did this a few years earlier after I got robbed when I visited Nigeria. So, the one time I was able to enter the bank during this period, they gave me ₦5k and asked me not to come back for cash until after ten days. My kids have been pestering me to return to the UK, and I may have to listen to them sooner or later. I’d advise any young person to leave if they have the chance. It’s better to have an option than to be stuck here.
“I regret not leaving earlier”
— Wole*, 52
My wife and I have worked in pretty impressive organisations over the years — even the United Nations — so money wasn’t a problem. We had the opportunity to relocate right after we got married, but I’ve always been an advocate for “Nigeria will be great”. We’ve been married for over 20 years, and Nigeria has only gotten worse during that period.
Now, we have three children in private universities, and I regret not relocating earlier. It’s now expensive to move everyone at the same time, whereas if we had simply moved after marriage, we’d only have each other to worry about. My wife is still trying to apply to Canada through WES, so we’ll see how it goes. For the younger generation, if you see any opportunity to leave, please, take it.
“Nigeria is my home”
— Leke*, 40
I’ve had the opportunity to leave this country, but I don’t see myself ever leaving Nigeria permanently. Nigeria is my home. My businesses are here, and I can always travel and come back. People think the grass is greener abroad, but do you think it’s easy to succeed there? Especially with the many taxes and regulations.
Why don’t we focus all that japa hustle energy on building our country? Let foreigners want to relocate here instead.
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“My children will japa on my behalf”
— Moji*, 43
I had the opportunity to travel to the UK as a nurse ten years ago, but I didn’t want to leave my children behind. I didn’t trust my husband not to bring another woman into the house who’d maltreat my children.
I wouldn’t say I regret it now because I’d make the same decision if I could go back in time. My children will japa on my behalf, and I know I won’t suffer, no matter what happens in Nigeria.
“It’s the best decision I ever made”
— Goke*, 36
I relocated to Canada in 2022. I’ve not spent up to six months here, but it’s easily the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m finally in a system that works. I don’t have family members here, but at least, I’m not looking over my shoulder for a policeman or “ungun known man” when I walk the streets.
For the younger ones, I’ll say if you have to save, do it. If you have to go the educational route, do it. Do whatever it takes to leave that country. Tinubu has finally rigged his way to victory, and I predict it’ll only get worse.
“I won’t rest till I move my family here”
— Ify*, 42
I moved to the US for my PhD in 2015 and became a permanent resident in 2022. I’m glad I got out, and I advise young Nigerians to try the academic route too. Even if you decide to return to Nigeria, at least you know you can leave if things get crazy.
As for me, I won’t rest till I move my mum and dad here. I don’t know how yet, but I’ll find a way. I can’t let them remain at the mercy of evil leaders.
“I know Nigeria will be better”
— Segun*, 35
I moved to London for my master’s in 2017 but didn’t try to stay back. I believe in Nigeria’s potential, so I chose to come back home and try to be the change I hope to see in this nation. Contrary to popular belief, I know Nigeria will be better with Tinubu at the helm of affairs. He has the experience and prowess, and I eagerly look forward to a new wind of change in this country.
*Names have been changed for the sake of anonymity.
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