🌍 “Inside the Japa Wave: Why Nigerians Are Leaving & What Life Abroad Is Really Like”

 What Is the “Japa” Movement?

Over the last few years, the word “Japa”—a Yoruba term that means “to flee or escape”—has transformed from slang into a national phenomenon. It represents a powerful migration wave, where thousands of Nigerians are relocating abroad in search of better opportunities, security, healthcare, and quality of life.

But the story doesn’t end at the airport. What happens after Nigerians arrive in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada? What are the mental, social, and economic costs of this relocation? And what do returnees and settled migrants have to say?

In this feature, we explore:

• Why Nigerians are leaving

• Personal Japa case studies

• Real visa journeys

• Career transitions

• Culture shock & racism

• Mental health impacts

• Long-term diaspora reflections

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📉 Why Are Nigerians Leaving?

According to data from the Nigerian Immigration Service and embassies, there has been a 40–60% increase in visa applications and emigration from Nigeria in the past five years. The push factors include:

• Economic Hardship: High unemployment and inflation.

• Insecurity: Terrorism, banditry, and police brutality.

• Poor Infrastructure: Failing power, healthcare, and education systems.

• Brain Drain: Skilled workers seeking global relevance and fair pay.

“My monthly salary as a nurse in Lagos couldn’t feed my family. Now, I work 3 days a week in the UK and earn 5 times that,” says Ifeoma, a Nigerian nurse who moved to Manchester in 2023.

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🇨🇦 Visa Journeys & Immigration Pathways

While social media makes migration look easy, the journey is rarely smooth. Nigerians take multiple legal routes to leave:

• Study Visa: Most popular for Canada and the UK.

• Skilled Worker Visa: UK’s NHS visa and Canada’s Express Entry system.

• Spousal/Family Reunification: Marrying or joining family members abroad.

• Asylum/Refugee: In rarer cases, especially for LGBTQ+ or politically persecuted individuals.

Tunde’s Story (Canada):

“I spent over ₦6 million applying for my Canadian study visa. Got rejected twice. On the third try, I finally made it. Today, I work part-time and attend university in Toronto.”

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💼 Job Transitions: From Naija to Diaspora Hustle

Most Nigerian migrants, even professionals, often start from scratch abroad.

Common job challenges include:

• No recognition of Nigerian certificates

• Racism or workplace discrimination

• High cost of living

• Starting with “survival jobs” like care work, delivery, retail, or cleaning

However, many manage to transition into better-paying roles after getting licensed or taking local certifications.

Ngozi’s Journey (UK):

“In Nigeria, I was a software engineer. I now work part-time as a care assistant while studying for my UK tech certification. It’s tough, but I’m hopeful.”

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😔 Mental Health Realities: The Silent Struggles

Loneliness, depression, and cultural disconnection are major issues Nigerian migrants face. Many are afraid to speak up because of shame or stigma.

• “You look like you’re doing well on Instagram, but you’re crying every night.”

• Homesickness and survivor’s guilt

• Isolation due to long work hours and lack of social integration

• Pressure to send money home

Some migrants turn to online therapy or church communities for help.

Chuka in New Jersey shares, “I drive Uber daily just to keep up with rent. I miss my mum, my friends, and jollof rice at weddings. Sometimes, I ask myself—was it worth it?”

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🧑🏾‍🤝‍🧑🏾 Diaspora Communities: Finding Belonging Abroad

Despite challenges, many Nigerians abroad thrive—thanks to strong community networks. There are active Nigerian groups across cities like Toronto, London, Birmingham, Houston, and Atlanta.

• WhatsApp groups for newcomers

• Local Nigerian churches/mosques

• Professional associations

• Culture nights, Afrobeats concerts, and suya spots

These networks help with:

• Finding housing and jobs

• Legal advice

• Social bonding and emotional support

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🎓 Education & Opportunities for Children

Many Nigerian parents cite education as the #1 reason for leaving Nigeria.

• Better structured curriculum

• Global exposure and technology access

• Safer school environments

But cultural integration can be tough on Nigerian kids who feel “in-between” identities.

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💬 What Returnees Are Saying

Not all Japa stories end in permanent residence. Some Nigerians have returned home after experiencing racism, burnout, or unmet expectations.

Sandra (Returned from UK):

“I was cleaning offices in the UK for two years. I became depressed and lonely. When my father died, I decided to come back and start my own hair business in Abuja. And honestly, I’m happier.”

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💡 Is Japa Still Worth It?

The Japa decision is deeply personal. While some Nigerians find peace, security, and financial success abroad, others face emotional and cultural struggles.

Before making the move, it’s important to:

• Do proper research

• Have a clear financial plan

• Mentally prepare for transition and hustle

• Talk to people who have made the move

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📊 Stats at a Glance

• Over 71,000 Nigerians moved to the UK between 2021–2024

• Canada saw a 200% rise in Nigerian immigration from 2017–2023

• US visa rejections for Nigerians stood at 44% in 2022

• 1 in 3 Nigerians abroad say they would consider returning in the future

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✈️ Final Thoughts

The Japa wave is more than a trend—it’s a socio-political response to life in Nigeria. The grass isn’t always greener abroad, but for many, it offers a new beginning.

Whether you plan to stay, leave, or return, the Nigerian spirit of resilience remains unshaken across continents.

Photo Credit: Caleb Williams in Unsplash 

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