The Nigerian Senate has set its sights on tackling the country’s escalating migration wave, commonly referred to as the ‘Japa’ syndrome.
Concerned by the growing number of Nigerians leaving in pursuit of better opportunities abroad, the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations, led by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP-Kogi), has vowed to reverse the trend by bolstering economic prospects at home.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, stressed the importance of restoring faith in the country’s potential. “Patriotism isn’t something you impose—it’s something you earn,” she remarked. “We need to implement strategic steps to strengthen our economy while leveraging the expertise and investments of Nigerians in the diaspora.”
To craft an effective solution, the committee intends to study nations such as India, Pakistan, and Egypt, which have successfully cultivated environments that encourage citizens to remain and contribute to national development.
India, for instance, transformed itself into a global IT powerhouse, creating vast employment opportunities for its citizens.
A key initiative in this effort will involve compiling a comprehensive database of Nigerians abroad.
This data will help the government collaborate with international organizations to develop strategies that attract talent back home.
Senator Victor Umeh (APGA-Anambra), the committee’s former chairman, expressed confidence in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s ability to spearhead this critical agenda. “With Senator Natasha at the helm, I have no doubt that we will see meaningful progress in reversing the Japa syndrome,” Umeh stated.
As the Senate works to address this exodus, the focus remains on creating a more prosperous Nigeria—one where opportunities abound, and citizens no longer feel compelled to seek greener pastures elsewhere.
This article was updated 15 minutes ago
