Socio-economic impact of japa

The rate at which Nigerians are leaving the shores of this country for greener pastures is becoming worrisome. Obviously, times are hard, and there is no doubt about that. Moreover, our economy is in a comatose state and it appears there is no solution in sight. Recently, some Nigerians were interviewed concerning the state of the economy. The majority of them were of the view that all hands must be on deck to salvage the economy, while a few referred to japa as the only solution left for them.

A recent media report revealed that not less than 51 healthcare workers had left the Federal Medical Centre in Jabbi, Abuja. Every department in the hospital, according to the report, was affected by the brain drain. The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, based on a report, lost 6,000 pharmacists to brain drain in the last six years, while more are preparing to leave. Another worrisome news has to do with the data that was obtained from the International Organisation for Migration which showed that 1,200 Nigerians died between January 2023 and July 2023 while trying to cross over to Europe through the Mediterranean Sea. The core reasons behind the japa syndrome primarily revolve around the high unemployment rate among the youths who constitute about 65 per cent of the nation's population, insecurity, erratic power supply, insensitivity of the government to the plight of the common man, poor remuneration, lack of motivation and social security to mention but just a few.

A Nigerian immigration lawyer based in the United Kingdom advised Nigerians seeking to relocate abroad for greener pastures to think twice before they make their decisions. According to him, there are lots of people who have japa and they now live miserably. He cited an example of a particular family that sold all its belongings because of relocation to the UK but on getting to the port of entry, the wife had a serious problem and their entry visa was cancelled.

Access to accurate and timely information is very critical for those who want to relocate. I have observed that most of our travel agents do not provide their clients with relevant information. Aspiring immigrants are not guided properly. For instance, it is important to let them know some of the teething problems they are likely to put up with when they arrive over there, such as unfavourable weather conditions, culture shock, racial discrimination and loneliness.

A couple of months ago, there was a story about some Nigerians who got stranded in Cyprus after being told by their travel agents that jobs were waiting for them but upon getting to Cyprus, there was no job. The consequences of people's decisions to relocate to another country for greener pastures will obviously have a profound impact on both the nation and its citizens. For instance, those who relocate are likely to experience financial tension, misery, frustration and culture shock.

Additionally, the country will suffer as there won't be sufficient qualified manpower to handle national affairs. So, how do we stem the tide? First and foremost, the Federal Government should try to revive the ailing economy by creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Secondly, the Federal Government should try to develop and implement policies that will promote Nigeria's non-oil exports. Thirdly, the government should ensure that workers are adequately remunerated and salaries are paid as and when due. Fourthly, the government at all tiers should ensure that their employees are motivated through regular promotion, incentives, training and merit awards to deserving officers.

The issue of insecurity is a very serious challenge. In fact, it is one of the major reasons most Nigerians are relocating. The Federal Government should as a matter of urgency curtail terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and all forms of criminalities. Recently, it was reported in the news that the National Assembly was planning to enact a law stopping doctors from travelling outside the country for greener pastures. Frankly speaking, I think this action is not the best solution. The lawmakers are trying to infringe on the fundamental rights of doctors. The best solution is for the Federal Government to do the needful by ensuring that workers' welfare is paramount and well taken care of. For instance, the situation in our public universities as portrayed by some lecturers is very pathetic.

 A statement credited to one of the professors in the nation's universities read in part, “The government does not care about the system, treating us as we are slaves, the terrible condition of service, no motivation and poor facilities.” Another lecturer said, “In the universities, salaries have remained constant since 2019 while expenses keep rising. There is growing frustration among lecturers and attitude to work is being negatively affected. There is no motivation, salaries are being delayed with no explanation.” One can see how terrible the situation in our public universities is. I think something drastic needs to be done. It is time for the Federal Government to take the necessary action in other to remedy the situation. Delay is always dangerous. A stitch in time saves nine. The government should act now before it's too late.