Former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has urged Nigerian youth to resist the growing trend of migration abroad, emphasizing the critical need for young leaders to stay and build the nation despite current economic challenges.
Speaking at the combined 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo state, Fashola directly challenged the growing ‘japa’ phenomenon – a colloquial term describing the wave of migration by Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
“Why did Mrs Folorunso Alakija not run away? Why did Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has contributed to Nigeria, not run away? Why are they still here?” Fashola questioned, pointing to successful Nigerian business leaders who remained in the country during challenging times. “Times were equally tough in their younger days. The youths have become leaders in the Nigerian household and therefore, they must embrace that responsibility.”
The former minister emphasized that true leadership requires resilience during difficult periods, stating firmly that “leaders don’t run away even when things are tough.” He referenced the university’s founder, Michael Ade-Ojo, as an example of perseverance, noting that “there were tough times when Chief Ade-Ojo was at the University of Nigeria (UNN), but Ade-Ojo didn’t leave. If he had left, there would be no Elizade University.”
The convocation ceremony also highlighted institutional efforts to combat brain drain through quality education. Michael Ade-Ojo, expressing satisfaction with the university’s progress, emphasized the importance of local educational development. “I have been intentionally sacrificial with my investment in the university. It, therefore, gladdens my heart to see the seeds I sowed to humanity already bringing forth useful fruits,” he said.
Ade-Ojo outlined his vision for Nigerian education, stating, “My vision has always been to provide world-class education right here in Nigeria and while there’s still work to be done, I am pleased with how far we have come.” He stressed the importance of research and entrepreneurship training in equipping students for national development.
The university’s vice-chancellor, Kayode Ijadunola, reinforced this commitment, highlighting the institution’s focus on producing graduates capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic and technological challenges. “With new developments, a growing research portfolio and strong community ties, Elizade University is poised to continue its upward trajectory in Nigerian higher education,” Ijadunola assured.
MarketingInAfrica’s Analysis
The ‘japa’ phenomenon represents a significant economic challenge for Nigeria’s development aspirations. With unemployment rates at 33% and inflation exceeding 28%, young professionals aged 25-35 increasingly view migration as their best option for career advancement and financial stability.
Recent data shows that professionals in healthcare, technology and engineering are leaving in unprecedented numbers. The healthcare sector alone has seen a 25% reduction in specialized medical personnel over the past three years. While remittances from Nigerians abroad reached $20.9 billion in 2022, providing substantial foreign exchange, the loss of skilled professionals threatens to undermine local capacity building and innovation.
The trend highlights a critical mismatch between available opportunities and young professionals’ aspirations. Economic factors, including currency devaluation and limited job prospects, continue to drive this exodus. However, as demonstrated by institutions like Elizade University, local investment and leadership can create meaningful opportunities within Nigeria.
The challenge now lies in transforming these opportunities into compelling reasons for young professionals to stay and contribute to national development. For Nigeria’s economic future, finding ways to retain local talent while benefiting from global mobility remains a crucial policy challenge.
