Nigeria’s Mass Exodus Faces New Hurdles as Migration Wave Slows
The celebrated ‘Japa’ phenomenon – Nigeria’s widespread emigration movement – is showing signs of deceleration, despite persistent domestic challenges. This unexpected shift comes as aspiring emigrants face mounting obstacles in their quest for opportunities abroad.
Recent investigations by BusinessDay have uncovered a perfect storm of factors hampering Nigerians’ ability to relocate overseas. Travel expenses have reached unprecedented levels, with Lagos-based travel agent Janice Elebuwa reporting that flights to London now command N1.4 million, up from N500,000 in recent years. U.S.-bound flights have surpassed N2 million, representing a dramatic increase in basic travel costs before considering additional relocation expenses.
The visa application process has become increasingly stringent. In 2023, British authorities rejected 430,000 Nigerian visa applications while approving approximately 255,000. The United States has also intensified its scrutiny, implementing stricter measures against visa violations. Immigration attorney Mark Oduma emphasizes the long-term consequences, noting that “You can be punished years later for past overstays. Consular officers now have full access to your history.”
Those who successfully relocate often encounter unanticipated challenges. Business executive Fidelis Osemeka, who returned to Nigeria after studying in Canada, provides a sobering perspective: “It’s not the fantasy you see on Instagram. I’m doing much better now than many of my schoolmates who stayed behind. The cold, the taxes, the loneliness—it’s not what they tell you.”
The experience of Adeola Olajobi, an architect-turned-nurse in the UK, further illustrates these challenges. “I had to retrain just to survive. Life is better here, but also tougher. If you’re not prepared to adapt, it becomes a nightmare,” she revealed.
Recent policy changes have added to these difficulties. The UK Home Office reports a 38% decrease in Nigerian student visa approvals following new regulations that restrict student dependents and prioritize specific fields of study, particularly engineering and sciences. Economic pressures and deportation risks in host countries have further dampened enthusiasm for relocation.
Migration experts anticipate this downward trend to persist as multiple barriers continue to affect potential emigrants. The combination of visa restrictions, financial challenges, and the stark realities of expatriate life has begun to influence even the most determined candidates.
For those still pursuing international opportunities, experts recommend thorough preparation, comprehensive financial planning, and realistic expectations about the challenges ahead, both in departing Nigeria and adapting to life abroad.
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