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Facilitating Emigration: The Japa Syndrome in Nigeria
By Waheed Okebudo
“Japa” is a slang term that originated in Nigeria and is commonly used in Nigerian English and Nigerian Pidgin. It is derived from the Yoruba language, spoken primarily in southwestern Nigeria.
In Nigerian slang, “Japa” means to flee, escape, or run away. It is often used to describe the act of leaving a particular place or situation abruptly, especially to avoid trouble, danger, or an unpleasant experience. The term gained popularity on social media and among Nigerian youth, and it has been adopted by some other African countries as well.
The process of emigrating to a new country can be challenging and complex, requiring individuals and families to navigate through various legal, logistical, and cultural aspects. In such circumstances, professional emigration companies play a vital role in assisting people in their journey towards a new life abroad. This essay will explore the value of emigration companies, highlighting the benefits they offer in terms of expertise, guidance, and support.
Recent studies show that Nigerians rank at least third in the list of foreign students in Europe and North America. While cynics, especially medical practitioners, say the worst is yet to come, “Japa” -ing has to be done properly.
In Nigeria, like in many other countries, some individuals attempt to emigrate illegally for various reasons, such as seeking better economic opportunities, escaping conflict or persecution, or reuniting with family members. They may choose to bypass formal immigration procedures, such as obtaining visas or other necessary documents, in their quest to enter or reside in another country.
Illegal emigration poses several risks and challenges. Migrants who engage in irregular migration may be vulnerable to exploitation, human trafficking, abuse, and dangerous conditions during their journey. They may also face challenges in accessing basic rights and protections in the destination country.
It is important to recognize that illegal emigration is distinct from regular migration, which involves following legal processes, obtaining appropriate visas or permits, and adhering to immigration regulations. Regular migration allows individuals to enjoy legal protection, access to services, and potential pathways to permanent residency or citizenship in the destination country.
To address illegal emigration, governments and international organizations work towards promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration. Efforts focus on creating legal pathways for migration, enhancing border security, combatting human trafficking, improving economic opportunities in countries of origin, and raising awareness about the risks and consequences of irregular migration
Kelvin Alaneme, a Nigerian medical doctor founded CareerEdu in 2020 as a result of the aftermath of the Lekki Massacre. CareerEdu brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to the table. They possess a deep understanding of immigration laws, visa requirements, and the intricacies of different destination countries. They stay up to date with the ever-evolving immigration landscape, ensuring that clients receive accurate and reliable information. This expertise helps individuals and families make informed decisions, navigate through complex procedures, and increase their chances of successful emigration by providing personalized guidance and support. CareerEdu, one of the first online emigration schooling platforms in Nigeria aid in legal and logistical challenges, such as visa applications, document preparation, and compliance with immigration regulations. They assist in compiling documentation, guide clients through the visa application process, and provide insights into potential roadblocks or pitfalls. By addressing legal and logistical challenges, CareerEdu helps individuals and families navigate the emigration process more efficiently. It has helped more than 1,000 young Nigerians secure UK visas in less than 2 years of operation—through legal means. Several factors contribute to emigration from Nigeria. One of the main reasons is the economic situation in the country. Nigeria, despite being rich in natural resources, has faced challenges such as corruption, high unemployment rates, and inadequate infrastructure. Many Nigerians seek better economic prospects and job opportunities in other countries, particularly in Europe, North America, and the Gulf countries.
Education is another significant factor driving emigration. Nigeria has a large population, and there is intense competition for limited spaces in higher education institutions. Many Nigerians opt to study abroad to access better educational opportunities and gain international exposure.
Political instability and security concerns also contribute to emigration from Nigeria. The country has faced periods of political unrest, ethnic conflicts, and insurgency in certain regions, such as the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast. These issues have prompted some Nigerians to seek safety and stability in other countries.
The emigration of skilled professionals, often referred to as “brain drain,” is a concern for Nigeria. Many highly skilled individuals, such as doctors, engineers, and IT professionals, leave the country in search of better working conditions, higher salaries, and professional development opportunities.
It’s important to note that while emigration has its benefits for individuals and their families, it can also have consequences for Nigeria. The loss of skilled professionals can hinder the country’s development and capacity to address various challenges.
The Nigerian government has implemented initiatives to address emigration, such as creating policies to attract and retain skilled professionals, improving the business environment to encourage investment and job creation, and enhancing educational opportunities within the country. These efforts aim to reduce emigration and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.
