By Dike Ezema*
A debate on the pros and cons of “japa”, which we had on WhatsApp this week, has birthed an opinion article by my co-debater Okenna Omeje. I contacted the publisher of Eyeway.ng to complain that, for balance, my contribution ought to have been reflected in the piece. “Omeje’s opinion is not your opinion; now write yours so we could publish it tomorrow,” he said.
Omeje quotes me thus: “My friend in Germany (Dike Ezema) advised that, if someone has a reasonable financial standing in Nigeria, they have no tangible benefits or opportunities to gain by relocating to Europe or Canada. They should not be deceived by empty and deceptive promises, he said.”
To clarify my position, the advice I offered is rooted in my observations of the experiences of many individuals who have relocated abroad in search of a better life. They left behind stable, well-paying jobs and successful businesses, only to find themselves far from the “Eldorado” they had envisioned. My intention is not to discourage people from pursuing opportunities abroad, especially as countries like the U.K. and Canada continue to see an influx of Nigerians and other people from around the world. Just as people from other nations live in Nigeria, it is completely valid for Nigerians to seek opportunities abroad. However, I believe that when one’s financial standing in Nigeria is stable, the decision to move abroad should be considered with caution, as it may not always result in better economic prospects.
For those already established with solid financial footing, moving abroad for economic reasons may not necessarily yield the expected benefits. In fact, life abroad could be more challenging than many expect. The idealized, picture-perfect images of life abroad that are often shared on social media do not always capture the complexities of living in foreign countries. Behind the beautiful landscapes and seemingly perfect lifestyles lies the reality of high living costs, intense competition, and a host of other challenges. These are factors that are often overlooked until one is already settled in a new country.
When it comes to security, there is no denying that Nigeria faces significant challenges in this regard. The level of insecurity is a pressing issue, and many people who move abroad do so for the sake of safety, which is understandable. No country can offer 100% guarantee of security, but it is evident that Nigeria’s security situation has become dire. Anyone relocating to seek a safer environment should not be judged, as security is a fundamental human need. However, when the decision to move abroad is driven by other reasons, such as the pursuit of economic prosperity or personal growth, it is important to acknowledge that these motivations often come secondary to the core concerns of safety and financial stability.
While some may move abroad in the hope of improving their financial situation, the adjustment process is not always smooth. Many Nigerians who relocate face significant stress as they adapt to new environments and work cultures. The pressures of establishing oneself in a foreign land where the cost of living may be higher and the job market more competitive could result in job-related stress, mental health challenges, and a sense of disillusionment. These are realities that must be considered before making the decision to relocate.
As a Nigerian and pan-African, I believe it is our collective responsibility to contribute to the development of Africa. Simply running away from our challenges will not solve our problems. If everyone were to leave Nigeria due to socio-economic issues, who would be left behind to address those challenges? It is important to recognize that many countries to which Nigerians migrate today also faced significant struggles in the past. However, they chose to confront their challenges head-on and worked together to transform their countries. If leaders like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Kwame Nkrumah had chosen to remain in Europe or the United States during Africa’s colonial struggles, it is possible that the nations we now call our own would never have achieved independence.
In conclusion, I maintain that, while relocating abroad is a valid and personal decision, it is crucial to approach it with realistic expectations and proper preparation. Whether the motivation is economic, security-related or driven by personal aspirations, life abroad presents unique challenges that should not be underestimated. For individuals who already have a solid financial standing and a fulfilling life in Nigeria, staying in the country may be a better choice, as it allows for the preservation of existing connections, businesses and opportunities. Ultimately, it is vital to make well-informed decisions and carefully consider the long-term implications of relocating abroad.
*Ezema is based in Berlin, Germany.
