Seeking Greener Pastures Outside Africa
By Onyiyechi Roseline Agwu
Japa is a Nigerian pidgin word for leaving
Today’s topic is on Immigration and Emigration.
In recent times the outflow of young Africans from Africa has become overwhelmingly high. Many professionals are fleeing respective African countries to seek a greener pasture in other continents.
The economic and political crises that are faced daily are more than a concern as the system which has been failing the citizens keeps its reputation and does even worse.
I completed medical school recently and in a conversation with someone, I was advised to consider practicing outside Nigeria.
“Do you know that this certificate you have gotten is huge? You are not like other people who will enter illegally. You will get better benefits because of your certificate”
As said/paraphrased by a concerned citizen
I on the other other hand kept replying with “As God wills. Let God’s will be done”
My faith plays a big role in my decisions.
However, the question is: Have I considered the possibility of practicing outside Nigeria?
The answer is: Mildly yes and Mainly No
But anything can happen.
Conditions such as lack of appropriate equipment, infrastructure, salaries, conducive environments (security) and economic stability are the major reasons people are japparing.
In the past, the argument was: If we all leave who will stay and build the country?
But now, that is not enough to build a strong argument.
Most people have become tired of hoping and dreaming.
Before deciding to emigrate, there are many requirements to fulfill and unless a person is ready to meet the requirements, other illegal methods are sought.
As a professional, there are many exams to write and they all need special lessons that cost a good sum of money. After the long processes, there still involve the steps of waiting for approval from the country of choice before any meaningful movements can be made.
After meeting all the requirements and making movement to the country of choice there is no guarantee that life would be better.
At the end of the day, it is mainly about chances. Some people are able to immigrate and have the best lives and some are unable.
With all this said, most people would not want to leave their homeland but leave because the situations are unfavorable for them. Many leave for the sake of their children’s future and others because they want to build their own future. Whatever, the case may be if you decide to japa your country, make sure to carefully plan and prepare legally.
This article was not in depth on the topic matter and that is where your comments come in. What are your thoughts on this topic? Are you planning to leave your country as well?
Share your comments in the comment section below.
