Harsh truth about Japa

For many Nigerians, “Japa” has become the ultimate dream. The promise of a better life, abundant job opportunities, and a secure future for their families fuels their desire to leave. Social media is filled with images of Nigerians abroad, flaunting a lifestyle that suggests wealth and ease. But behind the smiling selfies and scenic backgrounds lies a different story—one of loneliness, racism, economic struggles, and shattered expectations.

Back home, tales of Nigerians making it big abroad fuel the exodus. Stories of six-figure salaries, luxurious apartments, and cars paint a picture of effortless success. Many believe that stepping into Europe, America, or Canada automatically means financial breakthrough. However, those who have made the move often find themselves grappling with a reality far from their expectations.
Temitope, a 32-year-old who moved to the UK for better job opportunities, shares her experience:
“I left Nigeria thinking I would get a high-paying job in my field immediately. But after months of searching with no luck, I had to take a job as a care worker just to survive. It was humbling and frustrating.”

Surviving abroad is not as glamorous as it seems. Many Nigerian migrants arrive in foreign countries only to realize that securing a well-paying job is not as easy as expected. Without proper documentation or relevant work experience in their new country, many end up in menial jobs—cleaning, security, caregiving, or factory work—jobs they never imagined doing back home.

Even for those who secure professional jobs, the cost of living abroad can be overwhelming. Rent, taxes, healthcare, and other bills consume earnings faster than anticipated. Many find themselves juggling multiple jobs just to stay afloat, a far cry from the comfortable life they envisioned.

Being away from home comes with deep emotional and psychological challenges. Family and friends are left behind, and the reality of being alone in a foreign land hits hard. The warmth of Nigerian culture—where neighbors look out for each other, and life is a community affair—is suddenly replaced by a system where everyone minds their business.
David, who moved to Canada, describes his experience:
“In Nigeria, even if you don’t have food, you can go to a neighbor’s house, and they’ll give you something to eat. Here, you can go days without speaking to anyone. The loneliness is real. I started battling depression in my first year.”

For many Nigerian migrants, racism is a painful reality. From being overlooked in job interviews to being profiled by law enforcement, discrimination can be subtle or outright blatant. Some struggle to integrate into societies where they are seen as outsiders. The dream of being welcomed with open arms often turns into a battle to prove one’s worth.

Chinedu, who migrated to Germany, recounts his ordeal:
“I thought once I had my master’s degree, getting a job would be easy. But even with my qualifications, I kept getting rejected. A recruiter later told me that my name alone made some employers uninterested. It was a rude awakening.”

Despite the challenges, many Nigerians abroad still believe they made the right decision. Some eventually find stability, build successful careers, and even support their families back home. However, the journey is rarely as smooth as initially thought.

The key takeaway? Preparation is crucial. Anyone considering Japa should research their destination, understand the economic realities, and have a clear plan beyond just “escaping Nigeria.”

“If you must Japa, have a skill, network with people already there, and prepare for a tough start,” advises Bimpe, a Nigerian who has lived in the US for over a decade.

For those still in Nigeria, the dream of a better life is valid. But before packing that bag, remember: Japa is not an instant ticket to paradise. Be ready for the struggle, because life abroad is not always as sweet as it seems on Instagram.