THE “JAPA” TREND: ESCAPE OR SURVIVAL, BY OLUCHI IGBOMA

“Japa” is a Nigerian slang word that literally means to run away or leave the country in search of a better life and brighter future. It has become a “trend” because a large number of Nigerians, especially youths, are relocating abroad to escape insecurity, economic hardship, and limited opportunities.

One of the recent catalysts for this trend is the kidnapping of 43 students, teachers, and a principal in Oyo State by Fulani bandits. The bandits are demanding the release of their members, yet the government appears to be paying deaf ears to this crisis. Interestingly, when the sister of a former minister was recently kidnapped, she was released within four days. This disparity highlights the uneven treatment and deepens the frustration fueling the “Japa” movement.

This situation exemplifies one of the core reasons Nigerians are leaving the country, lack of safety. With no jobs, even the available ones pay poorly, and safety cannot be guaranteed, many see relocation as the only option for survival. Public figures like Tunde Ednut have voiced similar sentiments, stating, “If you are a Nigerian, you have means or you’re financially stable enough, Japa now because this country is no longer safe for you.”

The country’s poor economic situation is a major driver of this trend. Many graduates grapple with unemployment or are underpaid, making it difficult to meet basic needs. Consequently, young people believe that moving abroad offers better financial stability and opportunities for a brighter future. Even older citizens are relocating with their families, prioritizing safety over staying in a volatile environment.

Social media and global exposure have also played significant roles. Today’s young Nigerians constantly see videos of people living well abroad—enjoying good governance, infrastructure, quality education, and stability. These images foster a strong desire to leave, as many compare their lives with those overseas, which increases dissatisfaction with local conditions. Scholarship opportunities and student visa programs further encourage students to pursue education abroad, making migration seem like a normal life pathway rather than an extraordinary decision.

Insecurity and inadequate social services are additional factors fueling the trend. Issues such as kidnapping, unreliable electricity, and poor healthcare make life challenging. Many Nigerians prefer to live in countries where safety, stability, and access to basic amenities are guaranteed. Imagine not being able to walk freely without fear of attack or kidnapping. Families are unable to live peacefully or carry out daily activities comfortably due to persistent insecurity.

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In my opinion, the “Japa” trend is more about survival than escape. Many Nigerians are no longer comfortable with the harsh conditions; they seek reassurance, safety, and support to live peacefully. Since the government seems to ignore these pleas, citizens feel compelled to protect themselves through relocation. The high rates of unemployment, insecurity, poor healthcare, unreliable electricity, and rising living costs have made life exceedingly difficult. For many, moving abroad offers a chance to secure a better future for themselves and their families.

From my perspective, this trend is often driven by necessity rather than personal preference. When basic needs—security, employment, healthcare—are not met, migration becomes a matter of survival. If the government could listen to the people’s grievances and create a better, more conducive environment, fewer Nigerians might see leaving as their only option.

Some critics argue that the “Japa” trend is simply an escape from responsibility. They believe many young Nigerians prefer to leave rather than face and address the systemic challenges within the country.

Ultimately, the “Japa” movement reflects the frustration and hopelessness many Nigerians feel about their current reality. For many, relocating abroad is no longer a luxury but a necessary step toward achieving security, financial stability, quality education, and a better future. The rising unemployment, insecurity, poor governance, and lack of opportunities have eroded confidence in the system. Many now see migration as the only realistic path for personal growth and survival.

If only the government could provide better job opportunities and improved social services, the need for Nigerians to “Japa” might diminish.

Oluchi is a 200-level student in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at Delta State University, Abraka.

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