Chairman of the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed concern over the negative impact of youth migration, popularly known as ‘Japa’, on Nigeria’s human capital resources.
She made these remarks during a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, where she announced plans for the 2024 National Diaspora Day Celebration.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Japa Phenomenon and its Implications for National Development.”
Dabiri-Erewa underscored the significance of the theme, highlighting both the benefits and challenges associated with the trend of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
“It is another year for us at the commission and another opportunity to stand on the threshold to commemorate the National Diaspora Day/Diaspora Merit Awards to appreciate outstanding Nigerians in the Diaspora,” she said.
Explaining the concept of ‘Japa’, which means to flee or escape, she noted its rapid adoption among Nigerian youths seeking better prospects outside the country.
Factors such as economic instability, security concerns, and inadequate living standards were cited as major reasons for this migration trend.
“The consequence of this phenomenon is the depletion of our strong human resources, primarily among the youth, leading to a decline in labor and productivity in the country,” Dabiri-Erewa added.
Despite these challenges, she emphasized the need to turn adversity into opportunity by celebrating Nigerians making positive impacts abroad and contributing to national development.
“Today, we change the story by celebrating those vibrant Nigerians who are making positive impacts in the Diaspora and making the country very proud, also those who while abroad are contributing positively to national development,” she affirmed.
The National Diaspora Day Celebration, according to Dabiri-Erewa, serves as a call to action for all Nigerians, urging collaboration among public and private sectors, government agencies, and the media to harness the expertise and resources of the diaspora for national development.
“As the sole government agency for Diaspora affairs in Nigeria, we will host the second edition of the national diaspora merit award, after its maiden outing last year,” she announced.
The event will feature panel discussions, goodwill messages, presentations on special diaspora projects, and investment opportunities by members of the diaspora community in Nigeria.
These activities aim to highlight the contributions of Nigerians abroad while exploring avenues to leverage their skills and experiences for the benefit of the nation.
