Think about it. The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) just reported a record-breaking number of passports issued – over 2 million in 2023, doubling the numbers from just two years ago. That’s a metric ton of people trying to get out! Japa is no longer seen as a last resort; it’s become a badge of honor, a sign that you’ve escaped the struggle.

But hold on, before you book your flight out of Lagos, let’s delve deeper into the reasons why people are leaving. Buckle up, because it’s a long list.

The Struggle is Real: Everyday Challenges Facing Nigerians

• Security Wahala (Trouble): Boko Haram, kidnappings, banditry – you name it, we got it. Safety concerns are a huge reason why many don’t feel secure building a future here.

• Economy wey no dey Move (Stagnant Economy): Inflation dey gallop faster than a hungry cheetah, Naira losing value by the day, and forget about job opportunities – especially for the young peeps. We’re talking full-blown economic stagnation.

• Infrastructural Woes: NEPA (power outages) be like our national anthem, bad roads everywhere you look, and forget about reliable healthcare or education. Building a life with these basic needs missing is a serious struggle.

• Social Issues wey we no fit Ignore (We Can’t Ignore): Poverty, unequal development, limited access to social safety nets – these issues hold back our nation’s progress and leave many behind.

Japa Makes Perfect Sense, Right?

Honestly, with all these problems staring us down, can you blame anyone for wanting to japa? It’s a simple question of survival. Let’s be real, if you’ve successfully japa’ed and are chilling in a place with better opportunities, stable electricity, and security at night, would you consider coming back to this struggle? Exactly!

But behold, Bayo Adio proved you wrong!

The American Naija Guy Moved Back Home

Now, here’s where things get interesting. In the midst of this japa frenzy, we have a guy named Bayo Adio, a Nigerian American who, by all accounts, seems to have it good in the US. Here’s this dude with all the comfort and affluence America offers, deciding to pack his bags and move his family back to Nigeria.

Think about it. What on earth could be compelling him to do this? Is the suya (skewered meat) so good in Lagos that he’s willing to give up everything? Does he miss the never-ending generator hum that lulls us to sleep every night?

Bayo Adio’s Reasons for Moving Back to Nigeria

Let’s take a closer look at Bayo Adio’s reasons for making this seemingly illogical move:

1. Weather Woes: Apparently, Bayo hates the cold American weather and prefers the sunshine and warmth of Nigeria.
2. Feeling Safe at Home?: Believe it or not, Bayo feels safer in Nigeria, especially Lagos, due to the heavy security presence. This might be a subjective experience, but it’s his truth.
3. Food for the Soul (and Stomach): Fresher, more affordable food options compared to the US? Bayo says yes!
4. Simpler Life, Less Billing Drama: Bayo is a big fan of the Nigerian pay-as-you-go system compared to the complex billing structures in the US.
5. Tax Relief: He feels the Nigerian tax burden is lighter than what he has to deal with in America.
6. Living the Good Life: Bayo enjoys the social and outdoor lifestyle that Nigeria offers, a stark contrast to what he feels is a more isolating life indoors in the US.
7. Land of Opportunity: Bayo sees Nigeria’s challenges as opportunities to build wealth and contribute to the development of the country.
8. Skilled Help is Readily Available: Easy access to affordable technicians for repairs and services is a big plus for Bayo.
9. Purpose over Comfort: Bayo seems to believe his skills and experience can have a greater impact in Nigeria, giving him a stronger sense of purpose. He finds fulfillment in contributing to his homeland’s growth.

So Should You Follow Bayo’s Lead?

This is the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Here’s the thing – Bayo’s situation is unique. He has the privilege of spending most of his time managing his US-based business while enjoying visits to Nigeria. For many Nigerians, that luxury simply isn’t an option.

Let’s be honest, the harsh realities we face in Nigeria are still very real. Bayo’s experience might be positive, but it doesn’t erase the daily struggles faced by most Nigerians.

Japa Still Has Advantages: Let’s Be Real

There’s no denying the benefits of living abroad. Access to better education, healthcare, and security are just a few. The Nigerian government, frankly, isn’t doing much to address the issues causing so many to leave. Let’s face it, escaping the never-ending battle with mosquitoes alone is a win in some people’s books!

Why Bayo Adio’s Story Matters to Nigerians and the Government?

So, why did I even bring up Bayo Adio and his move back to Nigeria? Here’s the thing. Listening to Bayo’s story was truly inspiring. This is a young, energetic Nigerian American who seemingly has everything going for him in the US, yet he chooses to move back home. Listening to Bayo talk about his reasons, you can’t help but be touched by his unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential.

Like Bayo, I’m a Nigerian who live abroad (the US, in my case). I’ve seen both sides of the coin. And let me tell you, there’s a certain charm, a social vibe you just can’t find anywhere else quite like Nigeria.

What’s even more exciting is the positive impact Bayo’s making. He’s creating jobs and contributing to a more hopeful image of Nigeria. Honestly, it makes you wonder – with more people like Bayo returning, could we see a shift in the japa narrative? (Speaking of which, Bayo, if you’re reading this, a chat with you sometime would be fantastic!).

Here’s the truth many of us in the diaspora wrestle with – we miss the vibe of Nigeria, the feeling of home. We’d love to come back and contribute, but the reality is, the government needs to step up. We need a safe and enabling environment where young, talented Nigerians like Bayo (and maybe even myself someday) can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth. This is a wake-up call for our leaders to address the issues pushing us away, and maybe, we’ll see a wave of Bayo Adios returning home, ready to rebuild Nigeria’s future.

Read also: Brain Drain Stifles Nigeria’s Growth: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

The Choice is Yours: Japa or Stay?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to japa or stay is a personal one. There’s no right or wrong answer. If you have the opportunity to leave and build a better life for yourself and your family, then that’s a decision you have every right to make.

Would You Move Back Like Bayo? Let’s Talk!

Here at MyJapaStory.com, we’re curious. Would you, with all the information we’ve discussed, consider moving back to Nigeria if you were in Bayo’s shoes? What are your thoughts on his reasons for returning? Let us know in the comments below! We want to keep this conversation going.

Remember, japa isn’t the only story. There are many Nigerians who are staying and fighting to make their homeland a better place. Share your stories, your experiences, and your ideas for a brighter future for Nigeria. Let’s build a conversation that empowers Nigerians everywhere, no matter where they choose to call home.

Bayo Adio Explains Why He Prefer Nigeria over USA